French Riviera – Amble Ridge Retirement Village, Knysna | May 2024

Creating a Serene and Welcoming Assisted Living Suite

This project was a very special one. My client purchased a suite for his mother in the assisted living ward at Amble Ridge Retirement Village in Knysna. She was relocating from Pretoria and naturally felt anxious about leaving her familiar environment. Our goal was to design a calm, serene, and welcoming space where she could immediately feel at home.

Design Concept and Colour Palette

We wanted the suite to feel light, airy, and uplifting, while still warm and inviting. Colour was subtly introduced through artwork and accessories, particularly featuring protea motifs and soft pink tones—elements that hold personal meaning for her.

To enhance comfort and depth, I layered textured fabrics, area rugs, and gentle wallpaper patterns, creating visual warmth without cluttering the space.

Comfort and Functionality

Furniture was chosen with comfort and mobility in mind. We selected two supportive single-seater chairs that are both elegant and easy to rise from—perfect for senior living. For added coziness, we custom-designed woven basketsfor the server to neatly store throws, ready for Knysna’s cooler winter days.

A small two-seater bistro table provides the ideal spot for relaxed meals or a cup of tea while enjoying the garden views. The window treatments feature white pinch pleat sheer curtains paired with separate block-out lining, ensuring both privacy and light control.

A Joyful Result

The final result is a soft, peaceful interior that feels fresh yet familiar. My client was thrilled with how the space came together, and his mother is now happily settled in her new home—surrounded by light, comfort, and touches of the things she loves most.