Kerry Southern-Reason, CEO of The Care Home Interiors Group, explains how continuing to push the boundaries of dementia design has enhanced the experience of people living with dementia – most recently at Barley Manor Porthaven’s latest care home
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. 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 is why we use heritage colour palettes, classic wallpaper designs, and recognisable furnishings that create spaces where individuals feel safe and at home.
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