Taking inspiration from England’s finest hotels, new senior living development The Shelbourne at Sway is setting the standards for senior care interior design in the UK by providing its residents with modern and luxurious surrounds, while maintaining the comfort and practically needed in a premium care facility. Designed by George Georgiou at General Practice, The Shelbourne interior is quite the opposite of the stereo-typical ‘clinical’ image many people have of retirement and senior care facilities.

George comments: ‘We were asked to create something that’s currently not out there in the senior living sector in the UK. We wanted to break the mould and create a premium and luxurious feel throughout the development, and we carefully considered every aspect to ensure the design was comfortable, inviting, and practical. It was important to make sure we didn’t go too contemporary in the interior, as it really does need to feel comfortable and not at all intimidating – after all, people will be living here and that was our prime consideration,’ he said.

Many factors were considered in catering for the various levels of senior care offered at The Shelbourne, including aspects like floor finishings and trip hazards, ease of access for wheelchairs and suitable colourings and lighting. Particular attention was given to the ‘nostalgia neighbourhood’ area of the development, which cares for residents with dementia. Designers met with the Alzheimer’s Society, which provided useful information to consider, including the use visual aids and the use of colour. ‘We didn’t use any bright, bold patterns and kept things very neutral in the nostalgia neighbourhood area, as we were informed this can be upsetting for those with dementia,’ George said.

‘The use of contrasting colours to differentiate between doors, walls and floors was also important for this area. In the bathroom suites for example, we used bright aqua to differentiate it from the neutral colours of the bedroom and living areas. We also used a dark carpet throughout, to provide a clear contrast with the walls.’ The interior of the nostalgia neighbourhood also includes a communal ‘Sensory Room’ – likened to a ‘chill-out zone’ with big comfy sofas and soft lighting. The design team explored the use of moving lights and projections and will install a large LCD screen with relaxing visuals, to add to the peaceful, calm effect. The Shelbourne ‘Tea Palace’ stands out as the designer’s favourite room, designed to create a very traditional feel not unlike the famous Lyon’s tea houses. The Tea Palace will be open to residents and their guests and features Lloyd Loom furniture, natural oak flooring and a very grand oak bar. The Shelbourne’s show rooms are currently open to visitors, displaying the luxurious interiors of the living areas and bedroom suites. For further information or to book a show room viewing visit the website.