1. Use calming color palettes and layered lighting

Color and lighting decisions impact not only how residents feel but also how safely they can move through a space. Choosing calming, biophilic tones like soft terracotta, sandy neutrals, coastal blues, and leafy greens helps create a restorative environment that reduces agitation while maintaining a professional, long-lasting finish that requires minimal upkeep.

In memory care, avoid very dark flooring, which may appear like holes or unsafe areas to residents with cognitive impairment and increase fall risk. Instead, use clear contrast between walls, floors, and furniture to define boundaries and support safe navigation. For example, pair neutral walls with slightly darker casegoods, or select light bedding against a darker bedframe to make furniture edges more visible.

Layering lighting— ambient, task, and night— offers flexibility while reducing unnecessary staff interventions. Well-placed fixtures and durable materials minimize maintenance while providing consistent performance. Circadian lighting systems that mimic natural daylight cycles not only enhance resident sleep but also extend fixture longevity by operating efficiently.

Tip: Add motion-activated nightlights near the bed or pathway to the bathroom. These simple upgrades support safety without disrupting rest and can reduce the number of nighttime staff interactions. 

2. Optimize layouts for safety, privacy, and care delivery

A clear, adaptable layout enables safer navigation and more effective care¹. Private rooms remain the gold standard, as they support dignity, autonomy, and infection control (CMS, 2022). These spaces allow residents to set their own routines and offer family members greater flexibility in visits and personalization.

When private rooms aren’t possible, define individual zones with partial walls, furniture groupings, or curtains to help provide a sense of ownership and spatial boundaries. Layouts should prioritize mobility by maintaining wide, clutter-free pathways (with a minimum turning radius of 5’-7’ and 36″ doorways), using slip-resistant flooring, and eliminating tripping hazards such as cords and loose rugs.

Choose furnishings designed to minimize risk and extend product life. Low-profile beds and rounded-corner furniture improve resident safety by reducing trip hazards and injuries from sharp edges. Built-in cable management systems keep cords organized and out of pathways, lowering the likelihood of accidents and extending product longevity.

Plan for both current and future mobility needs by leaving ample clearance around the bed for lifts, walkers, or wheelchairs. These considerations not only keep residents safe but also ease daily upkeep for staff, reducing the frequency of room repairs and interventions.

Tip: Flexible room designs allow you to plan for evolving care needs and future equipment, supporting aging in place while helping communities avoid costly renovations later

3. Create model rooms that drive ROI on unit turns

Model rooms are more than just a marketing tool — they’re an operational strategy that accelerates move-in readiness and directly impacts Net Operating Income (NOI). On average, unit turns take 22 hours and involve at least three team members. By pre-staging model rooms with durable furnishings, secure accessories, and consistent design standards, operators can cut downtime, reduce labor costs, and convert vacant units into income-generating spaces faster.

Standardized, homelike design also reduces variability in upkeep. Easy-to-clean surfaces, durable fabrics, and secured décor minimize repair calls and streamline maintenance, lowering long-term operating costs. At the same time, thoughtfully curated finishes create a welcoming environment that resonates with prospects and supports faster lease-ups.

Tip for ROI: Use model rooms as templates to streamline procurement and turnover protocols. This consistency not only reduces vacancy loss but also positions communities to stabilize occupancy and maximize returns across every unit turn.

4. Integrate smart technology for safety and convenience

Smart tools, such as voice-activated lighting, thermostats, and call systems help residents manage their environment independently. These systems support routines, provide reminders, and increase comfort by reducing reliance on staff for everyday tasks. AI-enabled sensors enhance fall detection while preserving privacy and promoting peace of mind for care teams and families.

Design for both the technology itself and the people using it. Ensure strong Wi-Fi coverage and provide rooms with tech-ready outlets, USB ports, and easy-to-reach controls. Consider compatibility with accessories like smart plugs or wearable health monitors.

Beyond safety and utility, technology can enhance engagement. Smart TVs, tablets, and video call capabilities help residents stay connected with loved ones and participate in community events. These technologies also support mental stimulation through games, music, and learning apps.

Tip: Prioritize simplicity with large, intuitive icons, precise controls, and concise labeling. Offering training and ongoing support builds confidence and increases tech adoption.

5. Select durable, senior-friendly furnishings

Furniture in resident rooms must balance style, comfort, and safety with long-term durability. Chairs with tipping precautions—such as the Maxwell Thomas® SteadyTech™ anti-tip device—reduce fall risks and liability without sacrificing aesthetics. Recliners with proper seat height (18″–21″), supportive arms, and tip-resistant bases make transfers safer for residents and staff alike.

Beds should be adjustable in height with residential surrounds, allowing for both safer caregiving tasks and a more welcoming, homelike appearance. Coordinated headboards and bedding prevent the room from feeling clinical, while casters with secure locks and discreet storage for fall mats or care tools add both safety and functionality. 

 Looking for more senior living furnishing tips? Download our senior living furniture guide.

6. Choose long-lasting, low-maintenance materials

Materials directly impact upkeep, infection control, and resident safety. Casegoods constructed with thermolaminate or high-pressure laminate resist moisture and harsh cleaning agents, extending product life. Coated fabrics and antimicrobial finishes minimize infection risk while standing up to frequent cleaning.

Design choices should also prioritize maintenance efficiency. Minimal seams, durable coatings, and wipeable surfaces help staff maintain cleanliness quickly and effectively, while still providing soft textures and modern design that elevate the overall look and feel of the space.

Tip: When selecting casegoods, look for drawer glides and hinges that can withstand repeated use and disinfection cycles. Small details, such as edge banding and hardware durability, can make a significant difference in long-term performance.

6. The bottom line: Bringing it all together

Every detail in a resident’s room should contribute to comfort, independence, and safety. From calming palettes and personalized touches to bright lighting and future-ready furnishings, thoughtful design makes a measurable impact on care delivery and resident satisfaction.

A well-designed room doesn’t just feel like home. It improves outcomes, reduces incidents, and helps your community stand out.

Ready to enhance your resident rooms? Contact your Direct Supply account manager today to get started on personalized solutions that promote safety, comfort, and long-term value.

References:
¹ CMS, 2022

For senior living operators across the U.S., the end of the year often comes with tough choices. CapEx spend down season can feel like a race against the clock. Budgets don’t roll over, timelines are compressed, and you’re balancing community needs with day-to-day operations. 

To help operators navigate these challenges, we asked Austin Higgins, Capital Sales Consultant at Direct Supply, to answer the most common questions about senior living capital projects during spend down. His guidance focuses on practical, customer-centered strategies to maximize budget, improve outcomes, and position communities for long-term success. 

My CapEx dollars are sitting unused, and I feel paralyzed by where to start. What should I do first? 

You’re not alone. Many operators feel that way when the clock is ticking. The best first step is simply starting the conversation. Even if your project is only in the idea stage, we can help you weigh priorities- whether it’s compliance upgrades, resident safety, or refreshing common areas. Early conversations give us time to align goals and unlock more options for you. 

It’s already late in the year. Is it even possible to complete a project before my budget disappears? 

Absolutely. Tight timelines are stressful, but they don’t have to mean missed opportunities. We manage fast-turnaround senior living projects every year, often under even tougher deadlines. For example, one operator came to us in mid-December with leftover budget. Within two weeks, we aligned on scope, overnighted fabric samples, finalized selections, and placed their order—all before year-end. 

The difference is having the right partner. Because we complete 50,000+ senior living projects annually and maintain deep relationships with key suppliers, we can accelerate timelines and unlock options that might not be available otherwise. Even late in the year, you can make meaningful improvements if you act quickly and lean on that network. 

I’m juggling multiple priorities. How do I decide which projects deserve my budget right now? 

Start with impact. Projects tied to resident safety or compliance should rise to the top. After that, look at what will deliver the most value, whether that’s operational efficiency, ROI, or a stronger first impression for families touring your community. Sometimes we’ll recommend phasing a project so you can act now without straining your budget or operations. Prioritization ensures your CapEx spend improves outcomes where it matters most. 

I’m debating choosing cheaper products just to save time or money. What’s the risk? 

The risk is that short-term savings can create long-term headaches. For example, choosing residential-grade furniture because it’s immediately available may seem convenient, but it won’t hold up in a senior living environment. That often means paying for replacements within a year or two, costing more in the end. We help operators choose durable, compliant products built for senior care, so you avoid rework, wasted spend, and disruption for your residents. 

Need furniture that will ship quickly? Discover Direct Supply’s quick-ship program, which ships curated furniture in 20 days or less: Perfect for year-end CapEx spend down.

Some of the upgrades I need have long lead times. What if I don’t have that kind of flexibility? 

That’s a valid concern. Standard lead times for major systems, like nurse call replacements, have a reputation for stretching six to eight weeks. But because of our strong vendor partnerships, we’ve often delivered emergency installations in as little as a week. It’s always worth asking—we may be able to accelerate timelines or find creative alternatives, so you don’t miss your spend down window. 

With so many needs, how do I know I’m making a smart investment? 

A smart CapEx investment should deliver value now and in the future. Recently, an operator we work with completed four furniture projects under budget in six weeks. They not only saved money but also moved closer to their annual rebate payout, adding even more financial value. When evaluating projects, consider both the immediate impact on your community and the long-term ROI. 

If I call you today, what will the process actually look like? 

We’ll start with a quick discovery call to understand your goals, budget, and timing. From there, we’ll confirm availability, secure pricing, and align on next steps. Once approved, we’ll manage procurement, warehousing, shipping, and installation. You’ll have one point of contact and full visibility from start to finish.

Bottom line 

CapEx spend down season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Even if you’re behind, it’s not too late to act. By starting early, prioritizing impact, and choosing solutions designed for senior living, you can stretch your budget further and make improvements that benefit both residents and staff.  

Don’t let your budget go unused.

Start the conversation with our capital experts today and discover how to maximize every dollar before year-end.

Are you struggling with declining NOI, outdated facilities, or compliance headaches?

Senior living communities nationwide are facing similar pressures. That’s why Direct Supply® developed The NOI Equation: Creating the Best Spaces for Aging, a data-driven playbook and expert-led webinar designed to turn common pain points into measurable gains.

Built on extensive research and anonymized insights from leading industry platforms, including the TELS® Platform, CMS, NIC, Care.com, and A Place for Mom, The NOI Equation identifies proven design and operational strategies to drive results.

Through the paper and webinar, gain practical insights, real-world case studies, and proven strategies that empower you to:

• Get units move-in ready faster
• Increase revenue with certified beds
• Boost retention through engaging spaces
• Cut costs with energy efficiency and innovative technology
• Maintain pricing power through stronger compliance

Whether you’re an operator, developer, community leader, or designer, you’ll gain tools to improve resident satisfaction, streamline operations, and strengthen financial performance.

Don’t miss out! Unlock the strategies to drive higher NOI today.

The Importance of Fall Prevention in Senior Living

Traditional recliners can become unstable as residents use them for support when standing or shifting position. In Memory Care and Assisted Living environments especially, furniture stability is essential for safety, comfort, and independence.

The SteadyTech anti-tip device offers an effective solution by enhancing recliner stability and fall prevention—right from the moment of installation. No added training. No wall anchors. Just safer seating that integrates seamlessly into your community’s design.

More of a visual learner? See it for yourself: 

What makes the SteadyTech™ anti-tip device unique?

While other solutions rely on external modifications or constant staff intervention, the SteadyTech anti-tip device is seamlessly integrated into the recliner. That means:

• Discreet integration: Maintains the recliner’s clean lines and inviting look

• Only activates when needed: No user input required

• Supports assisted or independent standing: Minimizes strain on residents and staff

• Preserves aesthetics: No compromise on design

The result? A smarter recliner that protects without disrupting daily routines or your community’s design vision.

From the Field: A Nurse’s Perspective

Available on the following Maxwell Thomas power recliner frames

¹Resident falls cost providers $380,000 per year, on average: report – McKnight’s Senior Living

Why art selection matters in senior living design 

• Enhances Well-Being: Familiar and visually supportive art reduces anxiety and supports mental orientation. 
• Drives Engagement: Resident-created art fosters a sense of pride and connection. 
• Improves Navigation: Wayfinding-friendly art helps residents feel more confident moving through the space. 
• Elevates Aesthetic Appeal: Bold, locally relevant pieces make your environment feel warm and personal. 

Direct Supply® Aptura® Color of the Year: Pesto 

At the heart of 2025’s color trends is Pesto, a rich green that embodies vitality, nature, and the essence of wellness. Imagine the fresh leaves of a thriving herb garden or the lush canopies of a woodland escape — Pesto is as nourishing for the spirit as it is vibrant and bold. 

This verdant hue is more than just a nod to greenery; it is a celebration of balance. Pesto’s saturated yet fresh tone breathes life into interiors, making it a versatile choice for designers seeking to connect spaces with nature.  In senior living, Pesto shines as an accent wall in dining rooms or lounges, effortlessly pairing with lighter woods or creamy neutrals to create an uplifting and inviting atmosphere. It also brings the outdoors in beautifully through accents like textiles, tiles, artwork, and accessories that evoke the serene charm of a garden retreat. 

For a polished look, layer Pesto with soft beiges, terracotta or muted blues. This combination keeps the drama grounded while embracing a harmonious, nutrient-rich palette that feels as good as it looks. 

Saturated Colors Beyond Trends: Jewel Tones 

For those who believe in bold design statements, 2025 brings a renewed appreciation for saturated jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue and ruby red. These colors transcend fleeting trends, offering a richness and drama that feels luxurious and timeless. 

 Jewel tones may seem like a bold choice for senior living spaces, but when applied thoughtfully, they can create a striking and transformative atmosphere. Imagine a cozy ‘scholar’s lounge,’ where rich sapphire blue walls are paired with gleaming gold accents and the warm texture of deep leather furniture. In a dining room, emerald-green upholstery adds a regal elegance that elevates the dining experience into something truly memorable.  

To keep jewel tones from feeling heavy, balance them with lighter or mid-tone neutrals. For instance, a ruby-red velvet chair can anchor a space when surrounded by soft beige walls and pale wood flooring. Jewel tones also shine in fabric or ceiling details — a painted coffered ceiling in a deep blue can create a dramatic focal point while maintaining overall harmony. 

Designers can draw inspiration from fashion by incorporating jewel tones in bold color-blocking combinations. Try mixing emerald green with muted mustard or pairing sapphire with terracotta for a modern twist. 

How to Integrate Trends in Senior Living Spaces 

• Balancing Drama and Comfort- In Senior Living design, creating an inviting and functional environment requires striking a balance. Pair dramatic hues like Pesto or jewel tones with warmer neutrals to ensure spaces feel cozy rather than overwhelming. Mid-tones like muted earth tones act as the perfect bridge, grounding bold colors while adding depth. 
• Layering Colors and Textures- Layering is essential to making these trends work in Senior Living. Combine matte finishes with glossy textures, and mix natural materials like stone, wool-looks and wood to create a tactile, multi-dimensional look. 
• Enhancing Resident Experience- Color psychology plays a pivotal role in Senior Living. Green tones like Pesto promote relaxation and wellness, while warm neutrals provide comfort. Jewel tones, used sparingly, can add moments of elegance and energy to specific spaces, encouraging engagement and activity. 
• Customization for Regional and Cultural Influences- Adapting these palettes to regional or cultural preferences can make spaces feel authentic. For instance, desert communities might lean into terracotta and warm neutrals, while coastal regions could emphasize greens and muted blues. 

Conclusion 

The 2025 color trends invite us to enhance Senior Living spaces with colors that are as dynamic as they are enduring. From the natural vibrancy of Pesto to the coziness of warmer neutrals and the drama of jewel tones, these palettes offer something for every design aesthetic. In Senior Living, these trends go beyond aesthetics to enhance the resident experience, blending style with purpose. 

Embrace these colors thoughtfully, layering them to create interiors that feel fresh, balanced and timeless. Whether you’re designing a modern “scholar’s lounge” or a bohemian-inspired community room, these hues promise to transform spaces into vibrant, welcoming retreats. 

Feeling inspired? Download the 2025 Design Trends E-book, or contact us today to get started on your next project.

Written by Rebecca Jourdan, IIDA, LEED AP,
NCIDQ Certified Senior Lead Interior Designer

Download the eBook for More 

For more trends like this one, download the free ebook. Inside, Direct Supply’s design and construction experts walk through the top trends in Senior Living for 2025, including:

• Destination Living – Turning communities into vibrant retreats with hospitality-inspired design.
• Sustainability & Long-Term Efficiency – Designing for safety, health, and eco-conscious living.
• Authentic Living Spaces – Celebrating individuality, cultural heritage, and natural design elements.
• Wellness-Centric Design – Supporting wholistic health and well-being through thoughtful environments.
• Quiet Luxury – Blending refined aesthetics with versatile functionality.

Our Senior Living Experts

Transform Your Community with Resident-Centered Furniture Solutions

Looking to create spaces that stand out and make a meaningful impact? Download our Senior Living Furniture Guide for tailored insights into furniture designed specifically for senior living environments. Discover room-by-room solutions that not only enhance comfort, safety, and style but also meet the unique needs of your residents and staff.

This guide provides expert recommendations on high-durability, easy-to-clean pieces that bring together functionality and aesthetics. Plus, with options like supportive armrests and mobility-friendly casters, you’ll find choices that promote resident independence and streamline staff workflow. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your spaces and boost community appeal—download the guide today to start planning for a more engaging, efficient environment.

Top Senior Living Furniture in 2024

By The Yard Potting Table

Enhance gardening experiences in Senior Living communities with an innovative, portable, and wheelchair-accessible potting table. Thoughtfully designed for ease and convenience, it features handy holders on the top shelf and hooks along the side, keeping essential tools within easy reach. The large, removable bin for potting soil allows for simple cleaning, while the sliding tray above provides a comfortable space for potting plants. This versatile table also doubles as an entertainment station—just add a second bin for ice, and it becomes a great spot for beverages and salads during community gatherings. 

1. Assess and Plan ​

Start by evaluating your current furniture. Identify pieces that need replacing or refreshing, and consider how each piece fits within the overall design of the community. Make a list of what you need and prioritize based on importance and impact.

• The Skye Armchair is lightweight and crafted from highly weather-resistant N-Dura™ resin wicker for a classic and durable outdoor style. The chair’s wrought aluminum frame ensures stability and long-lasting beauty. This stackable armchair beautifully accessorizes a variety of wicker patio furniture sets.

3. Rethink Common Area Layouts to Create Conversational Areas

Rearrange furniture to create functional conversation zones whether by adding new furniture or repurposing existing ones. A simple shift can transform a room’s atmosphere. Take inspiration from the model created at Foulk Living as you consider new additions to your furniture:

• At Foulk Living in Wilmington, DE updated furniture designs, and a bistro helped rethink Senior Living with a focus on conversation and community gathering. “The residents love how bright the renovations make the community look. It’s much more homelike,” says Leslie Johnson, Executive Director, Foulk Living. “They love the colorful fun theme they went with. It matches our community’s vibe: ‘Foulk Living is Fun Living.’ The community is much more comfortable and elegant. Intimate conversation nooks created by small groupings of chairs and small tables helped create the sense of connection for residents and their families to gather.”
• Instead of adding single benches in corridors, consider two accent chairs and small table arrangement for impromptu and neighborly conversations. The Maxwell Thomas Edmonton Occasional Chair is a perfect scale and design to encourage those interactions. It’s modern styling and faux-wood metal frame offer superior durability.
• Decorative accent pieces also add a fresh look to an existing furniture grouping like The Maxwell Thomas® Bacolod Four Door Credenza. A credenza like this can be a true statement piece, designed to capture the eye and elevate any room. Offering both closed storage and ample surface for accessorizing, it’s placement can seamlessly unify a room.
• Transform your place with Savvy Spaces, our newest Common Area program that allows you to customize your favorite collections with a budget-friendly selection of fabrics and finishes, all in a simple 3-step process.

4. Paint a New Picture: Bring Your Common Area to Life With Photos and Artwork, Wall Colors and Refurbished Furnishings

Revitalize your Senior Living community with artwork and accessories to create a more vibrant and engaging environment. Consider these ideas:

• Upcycling is such a smart and eco-friendly approach! It’s incredible how a few updates can breathe new life into old pieces. Reupholstering dining chairs or sofas with fresh fabrics, or even just swapping out throw pillows, can dramatically change the look of your Senior Living community to reflect current design trends.
• Add locally inspired artwork and accessories to common areas. Thoughtfully chosen pieces, like framed photography of regional landmarks, not only elevate the design by adding texture and color, but also spark conversation, evoke memories, and offer a sense of connection, making the space more engaging and inviting for residents.

 5. Create Retreats Inside Resident Rooms

If your residents spend a lot of time in their rooms, it’s a good idea to make sure they’re as relaxing as possible. Whether that’s adding photos of family members or an extra-comfortable occasional chair, there are always ways to elevate the resident room.

If you’re in need of new case goods and the budget is tight, consider a collection that features cost-conscious thermolaminate, like the Maxwell Thomas® Williamsburg Collection. This collection features durable thermolaminate case goods that will stand up to the daily wear and tear in your community. Plus, this collection comes in a variety of finishes so you can create the look you want at the price point you need.

By focusing on thoughtful design, you can create a refreshed and functional environment that promotes comfort,  engagement and a sense of well-being for residents in your Senior Living community.