Skip to main content

Tag: Dementia Interior Design

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 Home Interiors Company in Care Environment Magazine

Written by Colette Lowe on . Posted in Blog.

In the latest edition of Care Environment Magazine, Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of Care Home Interiors Company, discusses innovative and budget-friendly approaches to dementia-friendly design. The feature article provides invaluable insights and practical tips on how to create enabling and dementia-friendly interiors without breaking the bank.

Southern-Reason emphasises the critical role of the care home environment in enhancing the quality of life for residents, particularly those living with dementia. With approximately 900,000 people estimated to be living with dementia in the UK—a number expected to rise sharply in the coming years—creating a supportive and comfortable environment has never been more essential.

The Alzheimer’s Society’s co-creation guide highlights the prevalence and impact of dementia in the UK, noting that 14% of those affected have mild symptoms, 28% have moderate symptoms, and 58% suffer from severe symptoms. These figures underscore the importance of thoughtful design in care homes to minimise disorientation and stress, and promote autonomy and personal connections among residents.

Despite the clear benefits, many care home operators hesitate to invest in dementia-friendly designs due to the perceived high costs. Southern-Reason aims to debunk this myth, presenting numerous cost-effective strategies that can significantly improve the living conditions for residents with dementia.

Key Takeaways from the Feature Article: Think of the FACS – without the ‘T’.

Familiarity: Familiar environments can help reduce disorientation. Using homely designs with recognisable items can trigger positive memories, promoting a sense of belonging e.g. A lounge generally has a fireplace and TV as focal points. Multi-purpose rooms are a departure from the traditional home layout and can be extremely confusing.

Accessibility: An accessible environment makes navigation easy for individuals with cognitive impairment. For instance, clear sightlines and proper signage can help residents identify and reach different areas without confusion. E.g. Bus stop type signs for toilets or any other sign that really emphasises the fact it’s a toilet is incredibly helpful. One of biggest anxieties people living with dementia can have is how to access the toilet. Providing clear and obvious direction to a toilet alleviates anxiety but also aids in maintaining a level of independence they would otherwise not have.

Comfort: Comfortable environments minimise stress and encourage relaxation. Soothing colour palettes, comfortable furniture, soft lighting and tactile fabrics and objects provide sensory feedback contributing to a overall calming ambiance.

Safety: Safety is paramount in dementia care. Designs should limit fall risks, secure potentially dangerous items, and ensure residents can be easily monitored.

The feature in Care Environment Magazine showcases how thoughtful and intentional design can create an enabling environment for people living with dementia, all while being mindful of budget constraints. These practical tips serve as a guide for care home operators looking to improve their facilities without incurring significant expenses.

By sharing these insights, Care Home Interiors Company is leading the way in transforming care home environments into supportive, dementia-friendly spaces that enhance the lives of their residents.