Interior design


Wainwright Pages and Desk To complement these literary displays, we included striking landscape paintings by local artists such as Francis Towne, whose moody, atmospheric depictions of the Lakes evoke both grandeur and peace. The result was a space rich in familiarity


and personality: a home that felt both local and deeply personal.


Finishing touches: texture, colour, and contrast Joyce’s interior palette took inspiration from nearby stately homes, introducing sumptuous fabrics in blues, creams, and honey tones. Some bedrooms featured blue-and-white chinoiserie textiles, echoed by our choice of vintage prints of Chinese ginger jars in oriental gold bamboo frames for warmth and contrast. Every detail was considered – from the


placement height of artwork (to suit residents in wheelchairs) to the colour of frames, ensuring clear visual contrast against the walls for residents with sight impairments. Selecting the right artworks for a care


home is about more than matching art to paint colours. It is about understanding how residents perceive their surroundings and how art can quietly guide, comfort and orientate.


The result The finished home has a strong sense of identity, a place that feels rooted in the landscape and layered with meaning. The artwork adds rhythm and personality throughout the building while reinforcing the Lake District theme at every turn. As Joyce noted: “When families come


to visit, they immediately notice how calm and homely it feels. That’s the power of thoughtful design.”


Designing for wellbeing: a guide to selecting artwork for dementia care The Langtree project reflects broader principles that any care provider can apply when choosing artwork. Below are some of the most effective approaches used across our projects. 1. Choose nature-inspired art Nature has a universally calming effect. Paintings and photographs of landscapes, flowers, and seaside scenes evoke peace and familiarity. Use soft, harmonious colours such as greens, blues, and gentle pastels to avoid overstimulation. Avoid images featuring rough seas and stormy skies. Best for: bedrooms, lounges, and quiet areas.


Choosing artwork


thoughtfully is both a science and an art


2. Personal and familiar imagery Personalisation gives residents a sense of ownership and belonging. Family photographs, portraits, or artwork created by resident’s grandchildren and other family members – or even themselves – can strengthen emotional connection and serve as conversation starters with caregivers and visitors.


3. Avoid ambiguity Abstract or complex images can confuse some people living with dementia. Instead, opt for artwork with clear, recognisable subjects, such as a cottage garden, a fisherman by a lake, or a friendly animal. The goal is to offer clarity and comfort, not challenge or confusion.


30 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com January 2026


4. Use art as a signpost Artwork can act as a simple yet effective navigation tool. Distinctive images help residents identify different areas: n Ducks or aquatic birds leading toward washrooms.


n Still life paintings of food near dining areas.


n Floral prints in lounges or garden-view rooms.


These cues also make corridors less uniform and more engaging.


5. Consider contrast and visibility Make sure artwork is easy to see. Use high- contrast images and frames that stand out clearly against wall colours. Black or dark wood frames work well. Avoid life-sized murals or hyper-realistic images such as open windows or doorways, which might cause confusion.


6. Celebrate nostalgia and reminiscence Nostalgic imagery can transport residents back to a familiar era. Retro posters, street scenes, vintage advertisements, and interesting framed objects – like old board games, record sleeves, or postcards – can spark recognition and storytelling. These pieces work well in shared lounges or reminiscence areas. “The best results come when art prompts


interaction,” says Omair. “You’ll often see residents stop to point something out or share a memory. That’s when you know it’s having an impact.”


7. Create ‘destination points’ Break up long corridors with visual “stops”


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