As a designer, I have seen firsthand how the spaces we inhabit can greatly impact our daily lives. From the layout and functionality of a room to the colors and textures of its surfaces, every aspect of interior design plays a role in our overall sense of well-being. Here are a few tips on how to implement thoughtful design to improve your lifestyle.
One of the most important aspects of a home is how the space flows. When designing a room, think about how people will move through it and what their needs will be in each area. For example, in a living room, you may want to create a conversation area near the fireplace or TV and a reading nook near a window. By creating designated areas for specific activities, you can optimize the functionality of your space.
Studies have shown that exposure to nature can have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being. As a designer, I often recommend incorporating natural elements into a space, such as plants, wood, and stone. This can help create a calming and grounding environment that promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
Color psychology is the study of how colors can affect our emotions and behavior. I often use color psychology to create specific moods in a room. My favorite color combination is a variation of black, brown, white, cream, and grey. When designing your home, think about the emotions you want to evoke in each space and choose colors accordingly.
Comfort is key when it comes to interior design. No matter how beautiful a room may look, if it’s not comfortable to spend time in, it won’t be a space you want to spend much time in. When choosing furniture, prioritize comfort over style, and invest in quality pieces that will last for years.
Natural light is essential for our physical and emotional well-being. When designing your home, try to maximize natural light by using light-colored paint and window treatments, and positioning furniture to take advantage of natural light sources. If you don’t have access to a lot of natural light, consider adding artificial lighting that mimics natural light, such as warm white incandescent bulbs with a color temperature between 2700-3000k.
I believe that our homes should be a reflection of who we are and should support our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s my goal as a designer to create homes that not only look beautiful but also feel great to live in, and by following some of these steps hopefully, these can help you elevate your lifestyle.