The Wyldewoods in Chester was recently hailed as the "Premier League" of quality retirement communities in the area.

As part of Retirement Villages Group's Thrive Living collection, it sets a new benchmark for independent retirement living, with residents able to enjoy access to a range of premium hotel-inspired amenities.

We sat down with Jen Bernard, founder and creative director of Bernard Interiors, to find out more about the design process.  

"At the heart of every project we undertake is a commitment to timeless design, an approach that prioritises enduring quality, thoughtful materiality and spatial integrity over passing trends," she said.

The retirement village begins by researching the local area's history (Image via: The Wyldewoods)

The Wyldewoods focuses on creating environments that remain relevant, refined and resonant for years to come.  

Blending a strong sense of place with the client's brand identity, the retirement village begins by researching the local area's history, architecture, and materials.

Jen Bernard added: "Equally important is understanding the local community - who lives here, how they live, and what they value - ensuring the interiors feel personal and relevant.

"The result is a space that's not only beautiful and functional, but deeply meaningful - connecting people, place, and purpose."

Its interior design draws on native textures, colours and traditions to ground the design in authenticity, whilst maintaining Thrive Living's brand values of sustainability, wellbeing, inclusivity and community.

Bernard Interiors comprises of a seasoned collective of multi-disciplinary artists. To design The Wyldewoods, the team visited the local area and conducted research to help inform the design pillars. 

Residents can enjoy in-house fine dining experiences in ambient, restaurant-quality settings (Image via: The Wyldewoods)

Its design draws from Chester's rich heritage - from its Roman foundations and historic city walls to the flowing River Dee and Tudor architecture.

"We were inspired by the elegance of the Georgian era, the charm of the Cheshire countryside, and the vibrant evolution of Chester Market," said Jen Bernard.

"The building's own architecture also played a key role, guiding our choices in form, texture, and style."

The founder and creative director maintained that designing for such a project required "a thoughtful balance" of high-end hospitality, wellness-focused living and age-inclusive design.

She emphasised "human-focused approach", which aimed to support "independence, dignity, and ease of use" - whilst delivering environments that are both beautiful and operationally efficient.  

Through high end service and amenities, residents can enjoy in-house fine dining experiences in ambient, restaurant-quality settings, along with stylish bar amenities that elevate everyday living.

For visiting friends and family, guest suites are designed with the same care and elegance.

Every element has been thoughtfully selected (Image via: The Wyldewoods)

Sustainability is an integral part of the design philosophy behind Bernard Interiors - particularly in retirement living, where "longevity, durability and environmental responsibility are paramount".

The founder added: "While sustainability is a complex and often scrutinised topic, we are committed to making informed, meaningful choices, designing interiors that are as respectful to the planet as they are to the people who inhabit them.

"We aim to specify natural materials that offer both warmth and tactility, chosen for their ability to stand the test of time, minimising replacement and reducing long-term waste.

Jen Bernard revealed she is proud to have delivered a scheme that "challenges convention in later living design".

She said: "Residents will also associate mid-century styles with their formative years, so this creates a sense of nostalgia and emotional comfort, enhancing their feeling of home and belonging. 

"We designed bespoke, mid-century-inspired furniture tailored specifically for retirement living, adjusted in scale, comfort, and accessibility something rarely achieved in the sector. "

The team has embraced the use of vibrant colours, rich patterns, and layered textures in their design, bringing "warmth, personality, and liveliness", while ensuring every detail remains "elegant and enduring".

From the curated library to the custom-designed lighting, every element has been thoughtfully selected to create a space that feels distinctive, uplifting and authentically lived in.  

You can find out more about The Wyldewoods in Chester here.