It’s no secret that the spaces we inhabit have a huge impact on our overall health and well-being. That’s why the interior design industry is focusing more on creating environments that not only look beautiful but also promote physical and mental wellness.
From the use of natural materials and lighting to the selection of colours and patterns, every element of interior design can influence our mood and well-being. By creating spaces that are both visually pleasing and supportive of healthy lifestyles, we can improve our overall quality of life and create a sense of balance and harmony in our daily routines.
As the demand for design that promotes wellness continues to grow, it’s important for interior designers to consider the impact that their work has on the health and well-being of those who inhabit the space.
Mindful Colour
One of the most powerful tools for creating a wellness-focused interior is colour. Different colours can evoke different emotions, meaning that a specific colour palette can be the difference between a calming or energising atmosphere. For example, soft, muted shades such as pale blue or green can create a sense of tranquillity, whilst bright, bold colours like red or yellow can be invigorating and energising.
Scent-sory Wellbeing
Fragrance is often overlooked when it comes to interior design, but a well-chosen scent can have a strong influence on the mood of a room, making it an effective tool for enhancing well-being within an environment. Soothing scents like Lavender, Vanilla and Ylang Ylang can help to promote rest and harmony, whilst stronger, more fiery scents like Bergamot and Cedar can be more uplifting and vitalising. When used well, fragrances can add an extra layer of depth and character to a room, whilst also enhancing the overall experience of a space.
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design is an approach to design that incorporates elements of our exterior world into our interior worlds, fostering a connection to nature through the use of natural elements such as plants, natural light, and raw materials. This connection back to nature is believed to improve both mental and physical health by reducing stress, improving cognitive function, and creating a generally more harmonious space. The simplest way to inspire Biophilic Design in your own home is through the use of plants. The more plants the better – as studies have shown that by even looking at a plant this can trigger the brain to release small amounts of serotonin – also known as ‘the happy hormone’.
The Big Divide
Over the past few years there has been a sharp increase in people working from home. This shift will have had a major effect on well-being with the merging of work life and home life. Designating specific spaces for work in your home can be beneficial if you work from home frequently. This can help you create a separation between work and leisure, which can reduce stress and improve well-being. Your productivity can improve when you have a dedicated area for work. It can be easier to focus and get things done. Having designated workspaces can also make it easier to relax and unwind when you are not working, as there is a clear physical distinction between work and home life.
Enlightened Living
Lighting plays a crucial role in our daily lives and has a significant impact on our health. It can affect various physiological processes in the body, including hormone balance, cognition, and the immune system. While we may not have control over the lighting in public spaces, we do have the ability to choose different types of lighting in our own homes. It is important to be mindful of the type and intensity of light we are exposed to, as it can have a lasting impact on our overall health and well-being. Natural light is the most beneficial for our health, as it helps to regulate our circadian rhythms and can improve mood and productivity. Incorporating large windows and skylights, or using sheer curtains or blinds to allow natural light to filter into a space, can help create a sense of balance and well-being.
By prioritising wellness in our design choices, we can create homes and spaces that are both functional and rejuvenating, havens from the stressors of daily life that promote mental and physical well-being for all that experience them.
Thinking about how you can incorporate wellness into your interior design project? Get in touch!