April 12-14, 2027
Charlotte, N.C.

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Melissa Laatsch

Melissa Laatsch

Director of Interior EnvironmentsERDMAN

Melissa is a passionate interior designer specializing in healthcare & senior living design, with a focus on design strategy and experiential design. Driven by a deep motivation for creating spaces that promote healing and efficiency, Melissa collaborates closely with clients to understand the distinctive needs of both patients, staff, residents, families, and communities.

By integrating thoughtful design strategies and evidence-based solutions, she works with teams to craft environments that elevate experience, enhance functionality, and inspire wellbeing. Known for her holistic approach, Melissa ensures every project reflects a balance of empathy, innovation, and excellence.

Wed Mar 189:45 AM – 10:45 AMWest 104 AB

E13 – Comforts of Cooking: Designing Kitchen Spaces that Feel Like Home

Kitchens are at the heart of person-directed care in small household models but designing them to meet both regulatory requirements and resident expec…Kitchens are at the heart of person-directed care in small household models but designing them to meet both regulatory requirements and resident expectations is a complex challenge. This session explores how to create durable, compliant, and truly ho…Kitchens are at the heart of person-directed care in small household models but designing them to meet both regulatory requirements and resident expectations is a complex challenge. This session explores how to create durable, compliant, and truly home-like kitchens that support meaningful engagement and fresh food preparation. Learn how to navigate code compliance without sacrificing aesthetics, integrate commercial-grade durability with residen…Kitchens are at the heart of person-directed care in small household models but designing them to meet both regulatory requirements and resident expectations is a complex challenge. This session explores how to create durable, compliant, and truly home-like kitchens that support meaningful engagement and fresh food preparation. Learn how to navigate code compliance without sacrificing aesthetics, integrate commercial-grade durability with residential charm, and design culinary spaces that invite elder participation while concealing institutional elements. Real-world insights will guide you through achieving operational excellence without compromising the heart-of-the-home feel.Show MoreClick the title to see all detailsShow More

Educational SessionSession TypePlanning & Design PathwaysSession Track
CEU Credits:1.00
Andrey Teleguz
Melissa Laatsch
Shawn Kalley
Andrey Teleguz
Andrey TeleguzPrincipal, SCOPOS
Melissa Laatsch
Melissa LaatschDirector of Interior Environments, ERDMAN
Shawn Kalley
Shawn KalleyHollyday Group
Andrey Teleguz
Andrey TeleguzPrincipal, SCOPOS
Melissa Laatsch
Melissa LaatschDirector of Interior Environments, ERDMAN
Shawn Kalley
Shawn KalleyHollyday Group
Allow Registration:No
Capacity Unlimited:No
CEU:AIA – 1 LU, IDCEC – 1 LU
Session Handouts:Handout Link
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