Interior design
area on the second floor – designated for those living with dementia – defy conventional design norms by using a bold colour scheme and striking patterns. However, careful attention has been given to ensure that these elements remain accessible and not overwhelming, or cause confusion for those living with dementia. By thoughtfully placing wallpapers and textures, the design team managed to create a space that is not only vibrant, but also inviting and comforting. The colours and textures, combined with carefully chosen furniture placement, help individuals navigate the space and stimulate their senses without overwhelming them.
Quiet lounges
Thoughtfully incorporated to offer a serene space where people can retreat when feeling overwhelmed, these smaller, peaceful areas provide an intimate setting for reflection and relaxation, allowing individuals living with dementia to decompress and feel more at ease. Designed with soft furnishings and calming decor, the quiet lounges contribute to the home’s supportive environment, catering to unique needs while promoting a sense of calm and wellbeing.
Bespoke designed and manufactured seating Comfortable and inclusive, the introduction of banquette seating was a significant design choice in this care home. After extensive prototyping, a seating solution was developed that is both comfortable and supportive, accommodating residents with varying physical abilities. This allows for more inclusive and adaptable communal spaces, where individuals of all mobility levels can enjoy the environment equally. The success of this seating solution opened up new avenues for design styles and atmospheres that had not been possible in previous care homes.
Bespoke artwork
The use of bespoke hand-painted artwork allowed us to infuse personality throughout the home, elevating the space and adding personality to the environment. By incorporating 3D elements and textured surfaces, the artwork engages the senses and creates meaningful focal points. This attention to detail has contributed to the overall warmth of Barley Manor, making it feel more like a personal and comforting living space. The artwork has added layers
May 2025
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com
of meaning to the interiors, offering visual stimulation and many conversation starters for those that live, work, and visit the home.
Staff room Intended as a dedicated space for caregivers, Porthaven requested a full interior design scheme for the staff room at Barley Manor. Recognising that care teams’ wellbeing is vital to the care and support of those in the home, the staff room was designed as a joyful and comfortable space where caregivers could relax and recharge. This thoughtful inclusion highlights a holistic approach to care, ensuring that staff fully benefit from the environment.
A new benchmark for innovation The results have been truly remarkable. Barley Manor is an environment where those living with dementia can thrive. The pioneering use of space, combined with thoughtful design elements, has led to a care home that feels welcoming, safe, and personalised. The banquette seating provides flexibility for residents of all abilities, while the bold yet accessible colour schemes stimulate the senses without overwhelming them.
The inclusion of bespoke artwork and the consideration given to staff wellbeing further demonstrates the forward-thinking approach taken in this project. Barley Manor sets a new standard for care homes by offering a space that is not only functional but also emotionally supportive. Barley Manor stands as a testament to the future of care home design, particularly for dementia care. Through careful consideration of the specific needs of those it cares for, inventive design choices, and a holistic approach to the environment, Porthaven Care Homes has created a space that offers real personalisation, exceeding
all expectations while setting a high standard moving forward. This case study demonstrates that with the right design approach, mixing tradition with innovation is possible to create care homes that are not only better but also set new benchmarks for innovation, comfort, and accessibility. By giving those living with dementia a chance to truly, Barley Manor is testament to what thoughtful design can achieve – and a model for future developments in this sector.
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Kerry Southern-Reason
The Care Home Interiors Group is a multi-award-winning, family-run business dedicated to changing the lives of those living in care homes. Since 2001, Kerry has built the company to offer exceptional design, in-house manufacturing, and soft furnishings from their original work rooms applying traditional handcrafted methods. Over the years, Kerry has become a pioneer in dementia interior design. Using first-hand experience, coupled with best practice dementia advice, she strives to create comfortable environments for those living with dementia.
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