Decoration
Breathing new life into care environments with thoughtful redecoration
Joe Brett explores the value of a putting people who live in care homes first when planning redecoration.
Care home redecoration has evolved far beyond a simple refresh of tired décor. Today, it’s an exercise in shaping environments that actively support wellbeing and independence, while meeting the rising expectations of the people who live there, their families and care providers alike. At its best, redecoration is not just about how a space looks, but how it feels and functions on a daily basis. In response to this shift, a growing
number of operators are embracing a more residential, hospitality-led approach to design. Interiors are increasingly defined by warm colour palettes, layered textures and carefully selected furnishings that feel familiar, rather than clinical. Corridors are no longer anonymous
thoroughfares but thoughtfully designed spaces that aid orientation, particularly for those living with dementia. Lounges and
communal areas are arranged to encourage both sociability and quiet retreat, offering residents choice and autonomy within their environment. Even relatively modest design
interventions can have a meaningful impact. The introduction of feature wallpapers, for example, can help create identity within a space, subtly guiding residents, while also adding visual interest. These details contribute to a sense of place, turning a building into something that feels recognisably like home.
The power of attention to detail While large-scale redevelopment often captures attention, it is frequently the finer details that define success. Surface finishes, colour choices and material selection all play a crucial role in shaping how a space is perceived and experienced.
Decorative elements, such as feature
wallpaper, can be used to elevate interiors and introduce a sense of character. These additions go beyond aesthetics, supporting wayfinding and helping residents to distinguish between different areas of the home. Subtle variations in colour and texture can provide visual cues that aid memory and orientation, particularly in dementia care settings. These kinds of enhancements
demonstrate that impactful change does not always require structural alteration. Thoughtful redecoration can transform a space both visually and functionally, offering a cost-effective route to improvement.
Balancing safety and compliance with comfort Every redecoration project within a care environment must carefully balance
June 2026
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