Designing with Intelligence: Creating Senior Spaces with Longevity and Color
As societies age, interior design must evolve to meet the needs of senior populations without compromising on aesthetics, comfort, or emotional wellness. When develpoing product we explore how color, materials and thoughtful design can create inclusive environments for aging populations. Greece is currently one of the most aging countries in Europe. Within 30 years, one third of the population will be over 65, up from 23% today meaning that by 2050 more than 35 percent of the Greek population will be over 65.
The Emotional Impact of Color
Color isn't just decorative, it's functional. Calming tones can ease anxiety, while high-contrast elements aid navigation and spatial awareness for seniors with declining vision. KRAFT Paints offers a curated palette ideal for these spaces:
- KR1019 SECRET WHITE: A soft, clean background that brings clarity without starkness.
- KR1525 ALOE VERA LEAF: A muted green promoting tranquility and a connection to nature.
- KR1897 ROSEHILL / F: A gentle clay tone that adds warmth and emotional grounding.
These shades not only enhance comfort but comply with the psychological principles of longevity design.
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Practical & Durable Finishes
For high-traffic senior environments, surfaces must be durable, easy to clean, and resistant to microbes. Master Easy Clean emulsion paint provides washable, anti-stain finishes with anti-microbial properties, perfect for senior living spaces and healthcare facilities.
For enhanced protection in humid areas like bathrooms, Master Hydrocontrol ensures breathability while preventing mold, creating healthier air quality for vulnerable users.
Smart Surfaces for Comfort & Care
Using products like thermal insulation by KRAFT’s dedicated solutions under the brand BIOCLIMA designers can help regulate interior temperatures aiding thermal comfort for seniors who are more sensitive to fluctuations.
Combined with minimal glare surfaces and matte finishes, KRAFT’s coatings create environments that reduce visual stress and improve clarity
Human Centered Environments
Designing inclusively can mean creating spaces for individuals living with dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Project, routine and familiarity are essential, as dementia affects one’s ability to plan, initiate and complete tasks.
Design concepts in shared living facilities should prioritize human-centered environments that maintain a sense of autonomy and social engagement. Mixed-use spaces such as small cinemas, bookshops, cafés and grocery stores encourage social interaction while anchoring residents in familiar daily experiences.
To promote emotional comfort, designers can incorporate warm and tactile materials like wood. Surfaces finished with Eco Wood Aqua, a polyurathe enamel paint or Hard & Gloss, an enamel paint for metal surfaces such as railings can help provide durable yet homely finishes, while wall surfaces painted in comforting tones.
Connection with Nature – Biophilic Design
Biophilic design plays a vital role in enriching these environments. Outdoor "rooms" with adaptable furniture and direct access to green spaces encourage interaction with nature. Use 4 Seasons exterior acrylic paints in harmonious tones such as KR2634 MOUNT EARTHING / F or KR1035 NIGHT TIPPLE /F to integrate buildings into the natural surroundings, enhancing visual calm and reducing sensory stress.
Designing for longevity is no longer a future challenge it’s a present-day responsibility. By integrating color psychology, durable coatings and inclusive aesthetics, architects and designers can future-proof spaces that serve older adults with dignity and beauty while creating astrong sense of belonging for residents navigating memory-related challenges.
With KRAFT Paints, color becomes a tool for care.
