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Author: Colette Lowe

Creating Care Environments that Truly Support Wellbeing

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

While we couldn’t share the stage with our presentation partners Danfloor Carpets at this year’s Birmingham Care Show, we’re still passionate about bringing the conversation to you because understanding the silent needs within care design is too important to wait another year.

Our planned presentation about recognising the silent needs that support wellbeing in care homes explores the subtle but powerful ways that flooring and furnishing choices impact daily life for those living and working in care.

Sensory comfort is often overlooked in care design, yet it underpins how people feel, interact, and thrive in their surroundings. Overstimulation, noise, glare, and fatigue can heighten stress or confusion, particularly for older adults and those living with cognitive impairments.

Noise levels in care environments affect everyone. Echoes and hard surfaces can amplify sound, leading to stress, agitation and fatigue. Soft surfaces such as carpet, upholstery, cushions and curtains help absorb sound, reduce echo, and create a quieter, more comfortable space.

Caring is a role that keeps people on their feet. Hard floors increase leg strain and musculoskeletal fatigue, while cushioned carpets support joint health and reduce plantar pressure. Softer, non-slip surfaces also mean fewer falls and improved comfort for care teams working long shifts.

From colour and texture to acoustics and lighting, every sensory element can either soothe or overstimulate. Designing for sensitivities means creating harmony. Environments that are calm, familiar and emotionally supportive, rather than clinical or chaotic.

When care environments are calm, familiar and sensory-balanced, residents feel more secure, emotionally grounded and staff teams experience less stress and fatigue. That’s the essence of good design; not just looking good but feeling good.

If you’d like to understand more about how these principles can enhance wellbeing within your care home interiors, get in touch we’d love to talk to you about the importance of sensory comfort.

Creating Comfort Through Thoughtful Design

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

Creating Comfort Through Thoughtful Design for Porthaven Care Homes

Comfort is never an afterthought; it’s built into every detail of the Care Home Interiors design process. From familiar patterns to the soft textures of the cushions, and even a playful nod to classic games like Scrabble, care home spaces go beyond style. They’re carefully crafted to feel like home.

Unlike mainstream interior design, where trends and change is celebrated, consistency plays a vital role in residential care, especially dementia-friendly environments. Familiarity isn’t simply aesthetic, it helps maintain independence, reduces anxiety, and supports recognition.

For those living with dementia, surroundings become an anchor in an ever-shifting world. Even small changes to décor, layout, or colour schemes can cause distress or confusion, making it harder to navigate and settle comfortably.

That’s why, in our partnership with Porthaven Care Homes, we focus on interiors that support both practicality and emotional wellbeing. Every decision from the placement of a chair to the choice of wallpaper, is made with the resident in mind. Design is not about impressing, but about comforting.

We believe thoughtful interiors should:

Foster security and stability – spaces that feel familiar allow residents to relax and feel confident in their environment.

Encourage connection – warm colours, homely furnishings, and nostalgic touches create common ground for conversation and shared memories.

Support independence – clear navigation, subtle cues, and recognisable layouts empower residents to move about with ease.

By using heritage colour palettes, classic wallpaper designs, and recognisable furnishings, Porthaven Care Homes are creating homes where people feel safe, secure, and truly at home. Because when an environment is both delightful and homely, it becomes far more than a place to live – it becomes a place to belong.

Redefining Dementia Care through Thoughtful Design

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

Barley Manor Care Home by Porthaven Care Homes; Redefining Dementia Care through Thoughtful Design.

In the fast-moving world of interior design, where trends come and go, designing for dementia care demands a different approach—one rooted in longevity, familiarity, and function over fashion. For individuals living with dementia, a home should feel recognisable, reassuring, and consistent, not dictated by the latest colour of the year or fleeting design fads.

Unlike mainstream interior design, where change is often embraced, consistency is key in dementia-friendly environments. Familiarity helps maintain independence, reduces anxiety, and supports recognition. When people with dementia experience shifts in their cognitive abilities, they increasingly rely on their surroundings to help them make sense of the world. Disruptive changes in décor, layout, or colour schemes can cause distress and confusion, making it harder for individuals to navigate their space and feel at ease.

At Care Home Interiors, we deliberately steer away from passing trends. Says Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of the Care Home Interiors Group. “Instead, we focus on creating timeless, familiar environments that are reassuring for those living with dementia. We believe that design should never feel overwhelming or disorienting—it should foster a sense of stability, comfort, and security. That’s why we use heritage colour palettes, classic wallpaper designs, and recognisable furnishings that create spaces where individuals feel safe and at home.”

But while the company prioritises stability and familiarity, that doesn’t mean dementia design should stand still. The company pushes boundaries by exploring what truly enhances the experience of those living with dementia and their families. From 3D artwork that encourages interaction, aids recognition and familiarity, to versatile cube seating that allows families the flexibility of positioning seating in a more natural, relaxed social setting where they feel comfortable when interacting with loved ones.

The thought process is that good dementia design is about creating homes, not institutions. By prioritising what works, not what’s fashionable, focusing on stability, comfort, and the needs of those living with dementia.

The problem with care home design, particularly those accommodating individuals living with dementia, often struggle with balancing functionality, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal. The challenge was twofold: to create embracing interior spaces that could accommodate the unique and varying needs of those living with dementia while fostering an environment that is still an adult space. Key considerations included:

-Designing spaces that reflect their intended function, ensuring that the purpose of each room is immediately recognisable and intuitive.

– From the cosy feel of the living areas to the calming layout of the bedrooms, every room fosters a sense of familiarity and comfort.

-Incorporating features that aid in navigation and accessibility for those with cognitive impairments.

-Balancing bold design elements with practicality to ensure safety, reduced confusion, and promotion of independence.

-Providing supportive seating solutions that cater to a wide range of physical abilities.

-Creating a cohesive environment for both residents and staff, acknowledging the critical role of staff well-being in resident care.

Read the full story in The Care Home Environment Magazine and learn more about how design went beyond the conventional care home layout, emphasising innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of residents living with dementia.

Care Innovation Summit Speakers Announced

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

Kerry Southern-Reason announced as speaker at 2025 Care Innovation Summit

We’re delighted to share that Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of Care Home Interiors Group, will be joining an expert panel at this year’s Care Innovation Summit, taking place at the iconic Business Design Centre in London on Thursday 19th June 2025.

Kerry will be taking to the stage as part of the Healthcare Design & Build stream, joining fellow thought leaders for a thought-provoking discussion titled: Purchasing a Care Home vs Care Home Refurbishment.

Kerry will appear alongside:

  • Liz Hailey, Partner, Head of Real Estate, Herrington Carmichael
  • Ali Willoughby, Associate Director, Healthcare, Colliers
  • Robin Mumford, Founder, Caring Interiors Ltd

Together, they’ll explore key considerations in today’s care property landscape, including:

  • The long-term financial implications of refurbishing versus new build care homes
  • Maximising ROI without compromising care quality
  • Legal aspects of managing an expanding care home portfolio
  • Balancing CQC compliance with a welcoming, homely environment
  • Minimising disruption to residents and staff during renovations

With her unique background in high-end residential interiors and deep-rooted commitment to creating homely, dementia-friendly environments in care settings, Kerry brings a valuable and practical perspective to this important discussion.

This year’s summit is set to bring together a wide array of professionals from across the social care sector, especially care home and home care owners and managers, all eager to hear innovative approaches and expert insights.

Kerry will also be available at the event throughout the day and is looking forward to connecting with peers and sharing ideas that help shape the future of care environments.

Don’t miss this insightful discussion 13:50 – 14:45pm at the Healthcare Design & Build Stage, Business Design Centre, London. Book your place here

Officially Named Ambassador for Championing Social Care

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

We’re thrilled to announce that Kerry Southern-Reason, Founder of the Care Home Interiors Group, has been appointed as an Ambassador for Championing Social Care.

Championing Social Care is a national initiative dedicated to promoting the extraordinary value of the social care sector — shining a spotlight on the people, services, and innovations that enrich lives every day. Ambassadors are chosen for their contributions, commitment, and leadership within the sector, and we’re delighted that Kerry has been recognised among them.

Kerry brings a unique perspective to the movement. With a background in high-end interior design, she has become a powerful advocate for creating care environments that feel like home — especially for individuals living with dementia. Her belief is simple but profound: good design can enhance dignity, reduce anxiety, and bring joy.

As an ambassador, Kerry joins a community of leaders who share a commitment to improving public perceptions of social care and supporting the workforce that delivers it. She looks forward to using her platform to amplify stories from across the sector, advocate for better environments, and help raise awareness of the value of care.

“I’m honoured to be part of this brilliant group of ambassadors. Together, we can help shape a more positive, respected, and forward-thinking future for social care.” Says Kerry Southern-Reason.

To find out more about the Championing Social Care movement and its ambassadors, visit the website here.

Creating the right environment for optimal dining experiences

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

Kerry Southern Reason to Speak at the Care Home Catering Forum

Kerry Southern Reason, CEO of Care Home Interiors Group, has been announced as a key speaker at the upcoming Care Home Catering Forum on June 5th.

Recognised as a leading figure in dementia-friendly interior design, Kerry has gained widespread acclaim for her expertise in creating care environments that prioritise comfort, dignity, and independence for residents.

With a string of prestigious awards to her name, including accolades in dementia design and best interior design, Kerry’s innovative approach has transformed countless care settings, proving that thoughtful, well-executed interiors can significantly enhance quality of life for those in care.

Beyond her design work, Kerry is a passionate advocate for better living spaces in care homes, regularly sharing her insights at industry events, thought-leadership panels, and networking forums.

At the Care Home Catering Forum, she will explore the role of dining spaces in elevating the mealtime experience for residents, offering practical advice on how thoughtful interior choices can create welcoming, inclusive, and functional dining areas.

The Care Home Catering Forum, hosted by Care Home Catering Magazine, is a must-attend event for professionals looking to gain insight, inspiration, and expertise on catering in care settings.

The day will feature a packed schedule of expert talks, live cooking demonstrations, and an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations in care home catering. The event also plays host to the prestigious Care Home Catering Awards, celebrating those making a lasting impact on the industry.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Kerry Southern Reason as she shares her invaluable expertise on creating dining spaces that support resident wellbeing, enhanced social interaction, and mealtime dignity in care homes.

Date: June 5th 2025 at the Farmers & Fletchers Hall London. For more information and to secure your place, click here.

Refurbishment Insights from Kerry Southern-Reason

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Kerry Southern-Reason to Share Expertise on Managing Refurbishment Costs at Healthcare Property Forum

Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of The Care Home Interiors Group, is set to join a prestigious panel of experts at the Healthcare Property Forum, hosted by the Caring Times Owners Club South West at Celtic Manor.

The event, a must-attend for care home owners and investors, will bring together leaders in care, property, and technology for a day of high-level content, strategic insights, and networking opportunities.

Kerry will be speaking on the critical topic of Managing Costs When Refurbishing Your Care Home, sharing her expertise on budget-conscious refurbishment strategies that enhance the quality, longevity, and functionality of care environments. With rising operational costs and increasing pressure to improve resident experience, her session will explore practical approaches to cost-effective refurbishments, ensuring care homes remain both financially viable and aesthetically inviting.

She will be joined by a distinguished panel of speakers covering key industry topics:

  • Dan Madden, Commercial Director, Carterwood – Care Home Market Review and Statistics
  • Johan Jardevall, CEO, Person Centered Software – The Increasing Role of AI in Social Care
  • Charlie Jones, COO, BKR – Managing Your Manager
  • Jeremy Richardson, CEO, Avery Healthcare – Interview with a CEO

Kerry’s session will focus on:
-Cost-efficient refurbishment planning – how to prioritise spending for maximum impact
-Making smart investment choices – balancing durability, design, and budget
-Refurbish vs replace – when upgrading furniture and interiors makes financial sense
-Sustainability as a cost-saving strategy – how eco-friendly choices lead to long-term savings
-Creating homely, dementia-friendly spaces – achieving an optimal resident-centred environment

Kerry’s experience in designing high-quality, cost-conscious interiors for the care sector positions her as a leading voice in refurbishment strategy, helping care home owners make informed decisions in an evolving market.

“Refurbishing a care home isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about creating safe, comfortable, functional spaces that support residents’ well-being while ensuring financial sustainability,” said Kerry. “I look forward to discussing cost-effective solutions and learning from fellow experts at this insightful event.”

With a lineup of expert speakers, cutting-edge discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities, the Healthcare Property Forum at Celtic Manor is set to provide invaluable industry insights for care sector leaders.

Stay tuned for key takeaways from Kerry’s session and highlights from the event.

The Care Home Interiors Company wins the Most Innovative Manufacturing Business Award 2025. We’re thrilled to announce that The Care Home Interiors Company has been named the Most Innovative Manufacturing Business at the 2025 Business Awards UK!

The Care Home Interiors Company Wins Manufacturing Business Award 2025

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

The Care Home Interiors Company wins the Most Innovative Manufacturing Business Award 2025.

We’re thrilled to announce that The Care Home Interiors Company has been named the Most Innovative Manufacturing Business at the 2025 Business Awards UK!

This national recognition celebrates our commitment to redefining furniture manufacturing for the care sector through thoughtful, bespoke design that enhances quality of life—particularly for those living with dementia.

At the heart of everything we do is a deep understanding of the unique needs of care home residents. From ergonomically designed seating that supports mobility and independence, to visually engaging patterned chair backs and personalised upholstery that help residents feel seen, valued, and at home—every product we manufacture is designed with purpose and heart.

This award acknowledges our handcrafted approach to creating wing chairs, dining chairs, banquettes, sofas, headboards, and bookcases that are as functional as they are beautiful. From solid wood headboards that disguise functional profile beds to bespoke bookcases and TV units, we’ve proven that innovation in care interiors is not just possible—it’s essential.

Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of the Care Home Interiors Groups says: “We remain focused on crafting furniture that makes a real difference to daily life in care settings. This win is not just a celebration of innovation—it’s a celebration of our mission to ensure every care home can feel like a true home.”

Kerry Southern-Reason's Involvement in Groundbreaking Dementia Research Study at King's College

CEO’s Involvement in Groundbreaking Dementia Research

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

Kerry Southern-Reason’s Involvement in Groundbreaking Dementia Research Study at King’s College.

The CEO of the Care Home Interiors Group, recently participated in an important research initiative led by King’s College London. The study aims to identify the priorities and needs of family carers when it comes to accessing online healthcare information and forums. The insights gathered during this study will inform the development of a prototype online platform tailored to meet these needs.

Family carers are the backbone of dementia care, providing essential support to their loved ones while navigating complex healthcare challenges. Yet, many carers struggle to find reliable and accessible information online. King’s College London is addressing this gap by conducting research to understand the real-life experiences and requirements of family carers. By participating in this study, Kerry is helping to shape a solution that will ultimately make a difference in the lives of countless carers.

Kerry Southern-Reason is no stranger to advocating for dementia-friendly environments and practical support systems. As the CEO of the Care Home Interiors Group, Kerry consistently prioritises improving the quality of life for those living with dementia. Her involvement in this research is a natural extension of her commitment to creating positive change in the social care sector.

The insights from this study will guide the development of a new online platform designed specifically for family carers. By offering a space where carers can easily access accurate healthcare information and connect with support networks, the platform aims to address a critical need in the dementia care community.

We are proud of Kerry’s continued efforts to advocate for practical, meaningful solutions in dementia care. Stay tuned for more updates as the research progresses!

Care Home Interiors Champions Excellence in Dementia Care Design

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

Care Home Interiors Company Champions Excellence in Dementia Care Design at Healthcare Care Design Awards.

North View Wins ‘Best Specialist/Dementia Care Award at The Healthcare Care Design Awards, Sponsored by Care Home Interiors Company

The Healthcare Care Design Awards celebrated the very best in healthcare and specialist care environments this year, recognising innovation, excellence, and the profound impact of well-designed spaces on individuals’ health and well-being outcomes.

Among the standout winners was North View, part of Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, which took home the coveted Best Specialist/Dementia Care award—an award sponsored by Care Home Interiors Company in recognition of its commitment to transforming care through innovative interiors.

As a leading specialist in care home interiors, Care Home Interiors Company was proud to sponsor this important category, underscoring its dedication to creating environments that not only look beautiful but enhance the quality of life for those in care. The company’s mission is clear: to champion interior design that goes beyond aesthetics and delivers real, measurable benefits for residents, care teams, and families.

North View’s success is a testament to the power of purposeful, dementia-friendly design, with its carefully curated environment reducing anxiety, promoting independence, and ensuring residents feel safe and at home. But the real impact of its design is seen in the outcomes it has achieved.

Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of Care Home Interiors Company, praised the tangible benefits of North View’s approach, highlighting a key breakthrough: “The impact of North View’s design has been extraordinary, resulting in a significant reduction in restraint rates. That is the real win here—not just in what has been imagined and achieved in design terms, but in the real, positive patient outcomes that have followed. It’s proof that when we prioritise human-centred design, we can dramatically improve care experiences and patient outcomes.”

This success demonstrates that care environments designed with compassion, science, and expertise can lead to better emotional well-being, reduced stress for both residents and staff, and ultimately, a more dignified approach to dementia care.

“We extend our warmest congratulations to the entire North View team, whose dedication and vision have made this achievement possible. May this success inspire further advancements and collaborations in the realm of specialist care design.”

Here’s to a Future of Inspired, Caring, and Beautiful Spaces!