Aged Care and Retirement Living Furniture Project Inspiration
When you’re planning a new fitout or refreshing an existing space, seeing real project examples can spark ideas, clarify direction, and help you feel confident about what will work in your community.
These project highlights showcase a wide range of furniture options—designed specifically for aged care and retirement living environments—so you can visualise how each piece contributes to comfort, safety, and a homely atmosphere.
Lounge & Living Area Furniture
Lounge spaces set the tone for your entire community, so durability, comfort, and homeliness are essential.
What to look for:
- Supportive seating with appropriate seat height and armrests
- Pressure-relieving foam and fabrics suitable for high-use areas
- Timeless designs that feel warm and familiar
- Fabrics that balance softness with cleanability
Common items:
- Armchairs and high-back chairs
- Sofas and modular lounges
- Recliners (manual and electric)
- Coffee tables, side tables, and console tables
- Occasional furniture such as bookcases, credenzas, and display units
Dining Room Furniture
Dining areas must accommodate a mix of mobility needs while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
What to look for:
- Sturdy tables with options for different heights and wheelchair access
- Chairs with firm seat support, arms for leverage, and comfortable sit times
- Easy-clean, healthcare-appropriate fabrics
- Timber finishes that create a homely, café-style feel
Common items:
- Dining chairs
- Café-style chairs and tub chairs
- Four-leg and pedestal dining tables
- Drop-leaf and flip-top tables for flexibility
- Buffet units and storage cabinets
Bedroom Furniture
Residents spend significant time in their rooms, so bedroom furniture must support comfort, privacy, and ease of care.
What to look for:
- Bedside tables with raised edges or smart storage
- Wardrobes with hanging and shelving options
- Desks and reading chairs to enhance independence
- Durable finishes that stand up to daily cleaning
Common items:
- Bedroom suites
- Aged care-ready beds or adjustable bases
- Bedside tables and overbed tables
- Wardrobes and tallboys
- Desks, dressing tables, and small lounge chairs
Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor areas support wellbeing and social connection. Furniture should be weather-resistant, safe, and easy to maintain.
What to look for:
- UV-resistant, rust-resistant frames
- Outdoor fabrics tested for heavy commercial use
- Stable seating with arms
- Tables that support group activities
Common items:
- Outdoor dining settings
- Lounge and occasional seating
- Benches and garden seats
- Café tables and armchairs
- Umbrellas and outdoor accessories
Activity, Multipurpose & Community Spaces
Flexible furniture helps your community adapt rooms for lifestyle programmes, events, therapy, and family visits.
What to look for:
- Lightweight, stackable, or mobile pieces
- Writable or flip-top tables for group activities
- Soft, inviting seating for smaller gatherings
- Storage solutions for craft, games, and equipment
Common items:
- Stackable chairs
- Mobile tables and flip-top tables
- Lounge chairs and modular seating
- Bookshelves, trolleys, and display units
Clinical & Support Area Furniture
While not the focus of resident life, these areas benefit from attractive, hygienic furniture solutions.
What to look for:
- Wipeable, infection-control friendly surfaces
- Ergonomic seating for staff
- Storage that supports quick access and efficient workflows
Common items:
- Staff room tables and chairs
- Nurse station furniture
- Lockers and storage
- Office chairs and desking systems
Reception, Lobby & Entry Furniture
The entry sets the first impression for residents, families, and visitors. It should feel calm, welcoming, and trustworthy.
What to look for:
- Comfortable, supportive seating
- Feature pieces that reinforce a domestic rather than institutional feel
- Durable fabrics that handle high traffic
Common items:
- Reception counters
- Occasional chairs
- Sofas and benches
- Coffee tables and décor shelving
Choosing Fabrics, Timber & Finishes
Materials directly affect long-term performance and resident comfort.
Key considerations:
- Fabrics: Look for commercial-grade textiles that are soft to touch, moisture-resistant, and easy to maintain.
- Timbers & Veneers: Choose warm tones and natural finishes that create a homely atmosphere.
- Foam & Cushioning: High-density foam provides long-lasting support and retains shape.
- Hardware & Feet: Glide feet, casters, and adjustable legs support accessibility and ease of cleaning.
How to Select the Right Furniture for Your Community
When assessing furniture options, keep the following in mind:
- Resident Needs: Consider mobility, cognitive support, and different levels of independence.
- Homeliness: Prioritise warm finishes, soft textures, and domestic silhouettes.
- Durability: Invest in pieces that withstand daily use and commercial cleaning.
- Flexibility: Select furniture that allows your team to easily reconfigure spaces.
- Compliance: Ensure furniture aligns with relevant health, safety, and infection-control standards.
See more of our work
Discover the FHG Look Book: Your Source of Inspiration for Quality Australian-Made Commercial Furniture
- Quality Craftsmanship: See why we’ve been a trusted partner for over 25 years.
- Local Excellence: Learn how our Brisbane team ensures the highest standards.
- Inspiration and Ideas: Find innovative furniture solutions for any environment.
Don’t miss the opportunity to transform your commercial space with FHG’s expertly crafted furniture. Download the FHG Look Book today and start your journey towards exceptional design and quality.
