There’s no room for egos in care home interior design – it isn’t personal, research tells us ‘fit for purpose’ is the priority, says Tina Profit, product manager at Camira Fabrics
Camira Fabrics recently conducted a market survey within the residential care sector to help gain an understanding of how fabrics can offer both substance and style in high traffic and high demand areas. Perhaps unsurprisingly, well over half of respondents felt ‘cleanability’ was their top priority when choosing a fabric, with aesthetics coming a close second. So, how does the care sector balance fabric performance with aesthetics, and why is it so important? Perhaps a brief look at history will help set the scene.
In the Middle Ages, upholstery was exclusive to the wealthy. Over time, it became more comfortable with padding and covering, especially in the 18th century when there was an increased demand for luxury goods. However, technological advances in the 19th century marked the beginning of the Industrial Revolution and a massive increase in textile production.
Mass manufacturing led to the rise of the middle classes. Rather than home ownership being the preserve of the aristocracy, the middle classes were asserting their dominance and embracing the Victorian trend for opulence by embellishing their homes with patterned wallpaper, carpets and upholstery.
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