top of page

Blog

Increasing Wellbeing for Residents and Staff Through Interior Design Choices in the Care environment

Writer's picture: Victoria BellerbyVictoria Bellerby



Wellbeing, defined as a state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy, is paramount in the design of shared buildings, particularly care homes. BellaBe Designs article published in Care and Environment Magazine in 2021, the significance of integrating wellbeing elements into interior design for care homes is highlighted. Here’s an updated extract for 2024:

In recent years, the focus on design for wellbeing has gained traction, acknowledging its crucial role in fostering the happiness and health of both residents and staff in various communal settings. This emphasis on wellbeing aligns with the World Health Organization's definition of health, emphasizing the importance of comfort, health, and happiness.


Having collaborated with numerous residents in various organizations, we have come to realize the pivotal role of resident (and staff) engagement in successful design endeavours. This resident-centred approach, which we refer to as "the wisdom in the room," underscores the importance of involving residents in decision-making processes concerning their living spaces. While deliberating on residents' needs, preferred activities, and environmental enhancements, soliciting their input serves as an invaluable starting point.



Enhanced Health and Happiness: Prioritize physical and mental health for residents to enhance their comfort and happiness.


Inviting Work Environment: Create an inviting work environment for staff to boost recruitment and retention efforts.


Competitive Image: Improve the care home's image in a competitive market to reduce vacancies and stand out from competitors.


Sustainability Focus: Consider sustainability by using carbon-neutral and sustainable materials, contributing to environmental stewardship.


Home-Like Environment: Foster a sense of home and belonging for residents by prioritizing wellbeing design principles, including comfort, air quality, and access to nature.


Inclusive Design: Ensure inclusivity for residents with progressive diseases or disabilities by making thoughtful choices in design elements such as fabric patterns, lighting, and acoustics.


Comfort is Key: Focus on comfort by using tactile materials, ergonomic furniture, and appropriate bedding choices to create a comfortable environment for residents.


Thermal Comfort: Achieve thermal comfort through temperature control measures, allowing residents some control over their environment.


 

Effective Lighting: Ensure effective lighting, both natural and artificial, to aid in wayfinding, enhance safety, and regulate circadian rhythms.


Biophilic Design: Embrace biophilic design principles to improve air quality, psychological health, and overall comfort by emulating nature within indoor spaces.


Activity Promotion: Design spaces that promote various activities to enhance residents' physical and mental wellbeing.


Smart Technology Integration: Integrate smart technologies to enhance residents' quality of life and facilitate access to essential services.



Performance Monitoring: Continuously monitor the performance of interior designs to ensure tangible benefits for residents' wellbeing.


In care homes, the delivery of health, comfort, and wellbeing is paramount. Consequently, the choice of interior design solutions plays a significant role in enhancing these values for residents. Whether in new constructions or refurbishments, the selection of lighting, paint colours, furniture, space allocation, fittings, and accessories internally contribute to shaping the desired brand image of the care home while promoting wellbeing.




8 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page