Forget Net Curtains, Lace Doilies, Garden Gnomes And China Figurines, Modern Retirees In Wales Want Houseplants, Home Gyms, Smart Speakers and EV Charging Points, According To New Research

A new study of Brits aged 65 plus from the developer behind the Llys Isan Retirement Living Plus development in Llanishen has revealed a list of interior trends for retirees, that are IN and the ones that are well and truly OUT.

The study, by leading developer of retirement communities, McCarthy Stone, has found that today’s over 65s in Wales are after top spec home security systems (a must for 46 percent), electric vehicle charging points (31 percent), Alexa (41 percent) and hive heating (30 percent).

Over 65s in Wales also want walk-in wardrobes (56 percent), wet rooms (59 percent), kitchen islands (51 percent), wine fridges (41 percent) and modern art on the walls (15 percent).

On the flip side, as many as 74 percent said fluffy toilet seat covers were old-hat, while 74 percent cannot stand avocado bathrooms suites, and 64 percent would rather have a fashionable blind than a net curtain on their window.

When it comes to tableware, 66 percent wouldn’t dream of using doilies, 64 percent would never lay out a lace tablecloth, and 75 percent wouldn’t be seen dead using a tea cosy.

And it’s also becoming increasingly unlikely that older Britons will have cheeky gnome statues adorning their gardens (56 percent), patterned carpets in their rooms (54 percent) and pebbledash walls on the outside of their homes (38 percent).

Forget upholstered floral print furniture – 39 percent of those polled want a home full of houseplants, hanging pendant lights (15 percent), and a minimalist kitchen (31 percent).

While 16 percent would like on-trend industrial fixtures and fittings, 7 percent a home gym, and a further 12 percent a yoga practice area.

Verity McKay, Divisional Marketing Manager for McCarthy Stone, which conducted the research said:

“This research shows how today’s over 65s in Wales are favouring stylish home environments they can tailor to their modern and vibrant lifestyles.

“McCarthy Stone apartments offer plenty of sophisticated design features from spacious open plan living and minimalist kitchens, to walk in wardrobes and wet rooms, and are the perfect canvas to add their own unique style and personality, however they choose. Our research also shows the importance of location and with our unique settings, positioned close to local high streets, whatever our homeowners are into there’s something for everyone right on the doorstep.”

The study also found that the over-65s are NOT fans of flowery and patterned wallpaper (53 percent), traditional china figurines (38 percent) and shag pile carpets (46 percent).

They are also saying goodbye to flowery bed covers (39 percent), lavender soap (46 percent), and talcum powder (34 percent).

So it’s no surprise that over HALF (54 percent) of Brits aged 65 and over agree that it’s a complete misconception that older people are less stylish than younger generations.

In fact, 55 percent of today’s over 65s think that when it comes to interiors and fashion, older Brits are able to put their own stamp on things and don’t follow the crowd, while 45 percent say they avoid short lived trends and instead stick to classic, timeless styles instead.

Almost half (46 percent) even say they have more self-confidence in their style than younger people do.

And when it comes to seeking inspiration for fashion and interiors, 21 percent of older Britons in Wales look to social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest.

The research also revealed that today’s over 65s are all about location, location, location, and would like to live close to parks and green spaces (71 percent), good restaurants (62 percent) and farmers’ markets (62 percent).

57 percent want to be near a good coffee house, 59 percent are after an independent greengrocer and 41 percent would like to be a stone’s throw away from an artisan bakery.

McCarthy Stone’s Llys Isan Retirement Living Plus development offers homeowners the opportunity to continue living independently, with the peace of mind of knowing additional help is available in an emergency.  An experienced team are on-site 24 hrs per day, and homeowners can tailor the personal support they receive to suit them – from cleaning to laundry. There is also an on-site Bistro offering freshly prepared meals and snacks. homeowners can enjoy their own spacious apartment, with an on-site communal lounge to spend time with neighbours if they wish. All the gardening and maintenance to the outside of the property is taken care of, meaning more free time for the things they enjoy.

For more about McCarthy Stone developments in Wales, please visit: www.mccarthystone.co.uk