Interior design


Luxury in care home design: not just a ‘nice to have’


Transforming care homes into luxury living spaces means more than simply picking expensive fixtures and fittings. As Rebecca Hartley of Rebecca Hartley Interiors explains, the right design choices should elevate the everyday lives of residents


When people think of ‘luxury’, a care home might not be the first image that comes to mind. But perhaps it should be, because in later life, luxury is not about extravagance or status. It is about comfort, beauty, dignity, and the joy of being somewhere that truly feels like home. Having worked in care home interior design for over a decade, I have seen first- hand how a thoughtfully designed space can dramatically improve quality of life. Done well, design in care environments is not just about functionality or compliance (although both are essential). It is about elevating the everyday experience for the people who live and work there. Care home interiors should be uplifting and familiar. Spaces should offer residents a sense of autonomy and security while remaining practical for staff and carers. Luxury and functionality can – and should – go hand in hand.


We can thoughtfully incorporate luxury elements into care homes without ever compromising on practicality.


Rethinking ‘luxury’ in a care context Luxury in care homes often gets misunderstood. It is not about marble flooring or chandeliers; rather, it is about how a space makes you feel. Warmth. Familiarity. Ease. A well-proportioned lounge that encourages people to linger. A reading corner that feels cocooned and quiet. A dining room that does not remind you that you are in a facility. This is the kind of luxury we should focus on Designing for people means creating environments that are comfortable, human, and uplifting. Every material, colour palette, and lighting choice should be made to enhance the lived experience – particularly for those with additional needs like dementia or limited mobility. Luxury is the freedom to move safely


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Luxury and functionality can – and should – go hand in hand


through your own space. To enjoy a cup of tea by the window in peace. To host family in a private dining room. It is in the small details – the ones that show care and foresight. It is also about sensory experience. The softness of upholstery, the quiet hum of a well-insulated room, the ability to adjust lighting to your preference. It is about control and comfort.


Bespoke furniture and thoughtful finishes One of the simplest ways to introduce luxury into care homes is through custom- made furniture and carefully chosen finishes. Chairs, for example, should not just be selected for their appearance. They need to support the body well, be easy to


get in and out of, and have arms that feel supportive but not restrictive. We often opt for high-back armchairs with wings, upholstered in soft, healthcare- compliant fabrics that mimic the feel of natural textiles. Tables in dining rooms are typically round or seat four to five, to make conversation easier and the room feel more domestic. Placement is considered carefully to create a sense of order and ease. Joinery is another important layer. From integrated shelving to bespoke media units, well-designed joinery not only helps keep spaces tidy and safe – it creates opportunities to showcase personal items, books, or objects of meaning, which contribute to the home-like atmosphere. Finishes also play a role in anchoring the care home to its locality. Whether working on a coastal scheme, a countryside manor, or a suburban development, look for cues in the setting – using colours, textures, and materials that feel rooted in place.


www.thecarehomeenvironment.com September 2025


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