01/20/2021
Interior design can be about many things: beauty, symmetry, comfort and color – however, one of the most powerful elements of building and space design is the potential to positively influence the health and well-being of its inhabitants.
At Julie Schuster Design Studio, we believe in taking a holistic approach to wellness, designing and decorating homes to improve health and well-being:
H2O
Water is essential to the healthy functioning of every operating system in the body, including the heart, brain and muscles.
Install touchless faucets with built-in water filters to encourage day-long hydration.
Shower filtration systems greatly reduce unnecessary exposure to chlorine and other harmful chemicals that can dry-out skin and damage hair.
A zero-threshold shower with an attractive grab bar ensures that the shower can be accessed by everyone, of all ages and mobilities.
Light
Our circadian rhythms regulate a number of critical bodily functions including the production of melatonin (a natural hormone that affects how awake and alert we feel during the day and how well we sleep at night).
Install smart, adjustable color temperature lightbulbs throughout the home to help reinforce the body’s circadian rhythms and improve energy, mood and productivity. (Blue/cold light in the daytime; red/warm light in the evenings).
Design and decorate in a way that allows for plenty of natural light – a natural mood and productivity booster and strong disinfectant.
Consider the use of automatic solar-adaptive shades that intuitively adjust throughout the day in response to the changing position of the sun. These shades save energy, reduce glare and enhance climate control.
Biophilia
Biophilic design incorporates recognizable characteristics of nature in our built environments. By reconnecting with Mother Nature we can make the most of Her healing, therapeutic qualities.
This can be as simple as adding houseplants or as extravagant as installing a water feature.
Using natural patterns and materials like wood, stone and organic textiles is a must. Designing with these elements in mind has strong correlations with Feng Shui design which, at its core, is all about balance and harmony (as is nature).
Homes with a strong indoor/outdoor connection and flow, such as a living room with an oversized or corner-meeting sliding glass doors that open up to a patio, enhances energy flow and promotes socialization.
Comfort
The comfort of your home directly impacts your ability to relax, de-stress and unwind. More comfort = less stress.
Select furniture (such as adjustable standing desks) that allows occupants to be more active during the day and offers an alternative to toxic periods of prolonged sitting.
Create a more equitable environment by designing a space that’s accessible to occupants of all ages and physical capabilities (Living-In-Place Design).
Consider the inclusion of both loud and quiet zones that are acoustically considered, comfortable and productive.
