Elaine Hollerhead runs an inclusive interior design company, combining her skills as an occupational therapist and interior designer to create an incredibly unique and bespoke service
In 2011, after a very long career in the statutory services, working as an OT in senior clinician and managerial roles, I decided to leave the NHS and venture into independent practice.
Choosing a sector to work in was a major decision requiring very careful thought. I spent time reflecting on clients I had visited during my career, especially those in recent months. On my arrival, many were glued to their TV screens, absorbed in programmes such as ‘Homes Under The Hammer’, invariably overawed by the stylish makeovers, they would say wistfully “I wish my home looked like that!”. Clients were grateful for the provision of basic equipment and adaptations that resolved their physical difficulties and restored independence, but frequently expressed disappointment that the adaptations looked clinical and shared frustration that their own décor was either in a state of disrepair, or outdated. Some clients were homeowners and had refused major adaptations, afraid that the ‘clinical look’ would devalue their properties.
I have always enjoyed decorating and furnishing my own home and have a lifelong love of aesthetic interiors. In 2008 I had studied Interior Design at The National Design Academy in Nottingham and in 2009 was awarded their prestigious Diploma in Professional Interior Design. I had really enjoyed the years spent working in local authority housing adaptation, but on reflection, I realised something was definitely missing in service provision – the equipment and adaptations provided failed to redress clients’ psychological and emotional needs.
A eureka moment! It was then that I decided to combine my qualifications in occupational therapy and interior design, and become an inclusive interior designer.
I passionately believe in equality, respect, dignity, entitlement to choice, and that everyone should be able to live life on their own terms. So, in 2011, I launched my own company - DESIGNATE Housing Adaptations Interior Design & Colour Consultancy - a UK-wide, health-focused interior design service for people of all ages living with minor or major, health conditions or injuries, with the aim of making functional fabulous!
I quickly discovered that I was a pioneer in providing a unique service where each project is undertaken by a designer qualified in occupational therapy and interior design. Creating DESIGNATE exemplified innovative practice, as at that time I was the only practising OT and interior designer in the UK.
My OT skills enable me to not only assess clients, but also to risk-assess high-street and bespoke products for safe use, ensuring that wherever possible, I can use these in my designs instead of the basic disability-specific products commonly issued by statutory services.
Disabling conditions have an impact not only on the client, but also on their family and friends , therefore the service is based on a client-centred approach. As an interior designer, I want to ensure that a finished project will successfully meet all physical, psychological, social, leisure and spiritual needs, so I developed a lifestyle questionnaire. This in-depth document, sent to clients for completion and return prior to the initial visit, gives the designer an invaluable insight into any lifestyle limitations imposed by current room layouts and facilities, and identifies client aspirations for a home that will enhance their quality of life.
At the first visit, after the initial introduction, I always ask what it is they are hoping I can achieve for them. Without exception, every client has replied, “I want my home to look beautiful and normal, I definitely don’t want it to look clinical!” I reassure them that by working together we can make this possible.
When designing, I am mindful that every project is bespoke and ‘owned’ by the client. The ultimate choice of colour and décor is their choice, not mine. My role is to advise on equipment, furniture, and to bring the design together, so that the new environment will be beautiful, safe, and fully meet client expectations.
When work commences, the client and family become fully engaged in the design throughout the project. Many people have difficulty visualising a completed room design from a 2D plan, so I use an interactive 2D and 3D CAD design programme. During site visits, clients are able to change colours, furnishings and textures in a room simply by pressing a key on the designers’ laptop or tablet. Great fun is had by all!
Projects also involve working closely with architects, case managers, deputies, construction professionals, OTs, physios, and multi-disciplinary teams.
Being an inclusive interior designer is wonderfully fulfilling and the highlight of my career. This year I celebrated DESIGNATE’s 13th birthday. During that time, I have visited dozens of clients and it is always immensely rewarding to witness how a stimulating environment designed for everyday living changes the mindset from ‘being a patient’ to ‘an empowered individual’ - one with renewed self-esteem, confident to re-engage in socialising and leisure pursuits.
DESIGNATE’s services continue to evolve and now include future-proofing homes and designing accommodation for multigenerational living and live-in care.
There are endless opportunities to develop service provision in adaptations and housing design. OTs are great analysts and are used to thinking outside the box, so they make great inclusive interior designers. However, interest in this career development remains slow. If this article has inspired you to consider becoming an inclusive interior designer please email me at Elaine@Designate-UK.co.uk, or call 07557 309 466 - I would love to speak with you!
This article originally appeared in the November 24 issue of OT Today