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On the JJ Barnes Blog, as I work on renovating my home with a focus on improving mine and my children’s lives, I check out top interior design tips to improve mental health.
Hammer in hand, paint-splattered dreams swirling in my head – that’s the current state of affairs at my house! We’re deep in the throes of a renovation project, and while the chaos is enough to make anyone’s head spin, I’m determined to create a space that not only looks good but also fosters a sense of calm and well-being for myself and my little ones.
It’s no secret that our homes significantly impact our mental health. Studies, like a 2003 one on room layout and organization, have shown a direct link between our living spaces and our cognitive function, productivity, and even emotional well-being. But let’s be honest, between juggling work, keeping small humans alive, and the ever-present mountain of laundry, achieving inner peace within the whirlwind of renovation can feel like a distant dream.
To help me out, Danielle Mathews, co-owner of Reborn Renovations, sent over research into the science behind how different interior styles can influence our emotional state, and some expert interior design tips to improve mental health by curating living spaces that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
The Science Behind Interior Design And Mental Health
Interior design is a powerful tool that speaks directly to our subconscious. It taps into a wealth of psychological influences, weaving together our perceptions of color, nature, organization, light, space, and visual appeal.
When thoughtfully crafted, these elements can have a profound impact on our mental health and emotional well-being. Imagine a room bathed in calming blue hues that evokes feelings of tranquility, or a workspace overflowing with natural light that boosts your focus and creativity. Conversely, a cluttered environment can lead to feelings of stress and overwhelm.
By understanding these psychological connections, we can design spaces that nurture our minds and spirits, creating a haven that reflects not just our personal style, but also our desire for well-being.
The Effects
The colours, textures, and organisation of our living spaces can either promote feelings of relaxation or contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress.
-Danielle Mathews
Interior Design Tips To Improve Mental Health
Colour
Colors aren’t just visual elements; they’re powerful mood influencers. Cool colors like blue, green, and lavender act like visual tranquilizers. Imagine a serene ocean or a lush forest – these calming colors can translate into your home, creating a peaceful atmosphere that reduces stress and anxiety. Think of a spa or a meditation room – they often incorporate cool colors for a reason!
On the other hand, warm colors like red can energize a space. Picture a vibrant sunrise or scarlet poppies – these fiery hues can bring a similar energy boost to your home.
Red can be ideal for a workout room or a creative workspace, where you want to feel motivated and focused. However, it’s important to use warm colors strategically, as an excess of red can become overwhelming.
The key is to find the right balance. Consider the function of each room and the mood you want to cultivate. Do you crave a calming retreat in your bedroom? Opt for cool blues or lavenders. Need a space to jumpstart your creativity in your home office? A touch of energizing red might be the answer.
Remember, color is a powerful tool, and using it intentionally can significantly impact the way you feel within your own home.
Nature
Our connection to nature is a fundamental human need, and it turns out, bringing the outdoors in isn’t just about aesthetics. Studies have shown that exposure to natural elements can significantly reduce stress levels and promote feelings of relaxation. Here’s how you can harness the power of nature through interior design:
Embrace the Greenery: Plants are more than just decorations; they’re living air purifiers that can boost your mood and reduce stress. From a cascading spider plant on a bookshelf to a stately Fiddle Leaf Fig in the corner, greenery adds life and vibrancy to any space.
Material Matters: Natural materials like wood and stone bring a sense of grounding and tranquility to a room. Think exposed wooden beams, a cozy stone fireplace, or even woven furniture accents. These elements evoke feelings of stability and connection to the earth.
Nature’s Palette: Bring the outdoors in through your color scheme. Earthy tones like beige and sage green create a calming atmosphere, while pops of turquoise or seafoam blue can evoke the serenity of the ocean. Nature-inspired patterns, like floral prints or organic textures, can also add a touch of the natural world.
Lighten Up: Natural light is a powerful mood booster. Maximize window space and consider sheer curtains to allow sunlight to bathe your rooms in a warm, inviting glow.
By incorporating these elements, you can transform your home into a haven that promotes relaxation and well-being. Imagine stepping into a space filled with lush greenery, warmed by natural light, and accented with calming earth tones. It’s a little slice of nature, right inside your own walls.
Organisation
Ever walk into a room so overflowing with stuff you can barely navigate? That feeling of overwhelm isn’t just a hunch; it’s science. Clutter and disorganization can significantly increase stress levels and contribute to feelings of anxiety. Why? Because visual clutter bombards our brains with stimuli, making it harder to focus and relax.
On the other hand, an organized space is like a sigh of relief. When everything has its designated spot, it creates a sense of order and control over your environment.
Imagine walking into a kitchen where all the pots and pans are neatly tucked away, or a living room where books are cozily shelved instead of piled precariously on the coffee table. This visual calm translates into a mental calm, reducing stress and promoting feelings of peace.
The key is functionality. An organized space isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a system that works for you. Invest in storage solutions that fit your needs, whether it’s sleek shelving units, decorative baskets, or under-bed storage bags.
Declutter regularly, getting rid of items you no longer use or love. By creating a space that’s both visually pleasing and functionally organized, you’ll not only reduce stress but also free up mental space to focus on what truly matters.
Lighting
Natural light isn’t just about illumination; it’s a key player in our mental and physical well-being. Studies have shown that exposure to sunlight has a significant impact on our mood, vitality, and even sleep quality. Compared to relying solely on artificial light, natural light can:
Boost Your Mood: Sunlight exposure triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. Imagine stepping into a room bathed in warm sunlight – it naturally feels more uplifting and inviting.
Increase Energy Levels: Natural light helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that controls our sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to sunlight during the day keeps us feeling energized and focused, while the absence of it in the evening can signal to our bodies that it’s time to wind down.
Improve Sleep Quality: Darkness is crucial for a good night’s sleep. By maximizing natural light during the day, we create a clearer distinction between day and night, allowing our bodies to produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.
So, how can you harness the power of natural light in your home? Here are a few tips:
Maximize Window Space: The more windows you have, the more natural light can flood your rooms. Consider removing heavy drapes or blinds that might be blocking the sunlight.
Light-Reflecting Surfaces: Opt for light-colored walls, floors, and furniture, and make use of mirrors. These surfaces reflect natural light, further brightening up your space.
Strategic Furniture Placement: Avoid placing furniture directly in front of windows to ensure natural light can reach different areas of the room.
Task Lighting: While natural light is ideal, strategically placed task lamps can provide focused illumination for specific activities like reading or working on your computer.
By incorporating these strategies, you can transform your home into a sun-drenched haven that promotes not just a brighter environment but also a brighter mood, improved energy levels, and better sleep.
Interior Styles for Improved Mental Health
Thoughtfully curating the living spaces in our homes can create environments that can promote relaxation, minimise stress, and enhance our overall mental well-being.
-Danielle Mathews
Minimalism: Embracing Serenity
Minimalist design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a philosophy that can significantly improve your mental well-being. Imagine a space free from clutter, boasting clean lines and a soothing color palette. This isn’t just a magazine spread; it’s a haven of calm waiting to be created in your own home.
Declutter Your Way to Clarity:
Visual clutter bombards the brain, making it difficult to relax and focus. By decluttering your surroundings, you’re essentially decluttering your mind.
Invest in stylish storage solutions like woven baskets or furniture with hidden compartments to tuck away belongings without sacrificing aesthetics.
The Calming Power of Neutrals:
Ditch the bold patterns and embrace the serenity of neutral tones. A palette of beige, white, and gray creates a sense of spaciousness and tranquility.
Consider a washable linen duvet cover in a calming light gray for your bedroom, or a plush, neutral-colored rug to ground your living room space.
Nature’s Tranquility Brought Indoors:
Natural materials like wood and stone add a sense of grounding and warmth.
Introduce a chunky wooden coffee table or a reclaimed wood shelving unit to add a touch of rustic charm.
Remember, minimalism is a journey, not a destination. Start by decluttering one room at a time, and gradually incorporate elements that promote a sense of calm and well-being. By embracing the power of “less is more,” you can transform your home into a haven of peace and tranquility, creating a space that reflects not just a clean aesthetic but also a clear and clutter-free mind.
Biophilic Design: Connecting with Nature
Bringing nature indoors has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. “Exposure to nature improves mood and cognitive function.
-Danielle Mathews
Biophilic design, a concept that integrates elements of nature into the built environment, taps into our inherent connection with the natural world. Imagine transforming your home from a sterile space into a calming oasis, all through the power of biophilic design.
Here’s how you can harness nature’s restorative influence to elevate your mood and create a haven of well-being:
Welcome the Greenery Indoors: Plants are more than just decorations; they’re living air purifiers that can significantly reduce stress and boost your mood. Breathe life into your space with a variety of greenery. Here are some ideas:
Low-Maintenance Marvels: For beginners, consider a trusty snake plant; it thrives on neglect and adds a touch of modern flair to any room.
Hanging Gardens: Liven up vertical spaces with a hanging pothos plant. This cascading beauty thrives in indirect sunlight and adds a touch of whimsy to your décor.
Urban Jungle Vibes: Create a mini indoor jungle with a statement monstera deliciosa. This lush plant purifies the air and adds a bold, tropical touch to your space.
Natural Materials: A Grounding Effect: Nature’s palette offers a sense of tranquility and grounding. Incorporate natural materials like wood and stone to create a calming atmosphere:
Warmth Underfoot: Invest in a beautiful woven jute rug. This natural material adds warmth and texture to your space, while also being soft and comfortable underfoot.
A Touch of the Forest: Bring the outdoors in with a reclaimed wood accent wall.
Nature’s Canvas: Opt for furniture crafted from sustainable wood, stylish and functional pieces that celebrate the beauty of natural wood grains.
Embrace Nature’s Patterns: You don’t need a literal forest to evoke feelings of calm. Nature-inspired patterns can create a subtle connection to the outdoors:
Flowing Fabrics: Drape your windows in curtains adorned with a calming leaf motif.
Serene Serenity: Adorn your walls with nature-inspired artwork featuring calming landscapes or captivating close-ups of nature’s wonders.
Organic Touches: Introduce throw pillows or blankets with organic textures like cable knit or woven wool. These tactile elements add a touch of cozy comfort and evoke a sense of the natural world.
By incorporating biophilic design principles, you can transform your home into a space that nurtures your connection to nature and promotes feelings of peace and well-being. Imagine a space bathed in soft, natural light, adorned with lush greenery and warmed by the textures of natural materials. This isn’t just a house; it’s a refuge, a place where you can reconnect with the calming power of the natural world, right within your own walls.
Scandinavian Style: Focusing on Simplicity
Scandinavian design isn’t just an aesthetic; it’s a philosophy that promotes harmony and well-being. Imagine a space free from clutter, boasting clean lines and a soothing color palette. This isn’t just a magazine spread; it’s a haven of calm waiting to be created in your own home.
Here’s how to harness the power of Scandinavian design to transform your environment into a sanctuary of peace:
Form Follows Function: Scandinavian design prioritizes practicality. Every piece of furniture serves a purpose, with clean lines and uncluttered silhouettes ensuring a sense of spaciousness. Think sleek sofas with hidden storage compartments or minimalist dining tables with extendable leaves for effortless entertaining.
Less is More: Embrace the mantra of minimalism. Avoid visual clutter by opting for clean lines and unfussy furniture. Declutter your surfaces and prioritize statement pieces that combine functionality with aesthetics.
Natural Materials: Scandinavian design draws inspiration from the beauty of the natural world. Incorporate light wood tones like ash or beech to create a sense of warmth. Consider woven textures like rattan or jute rugs to add a touch of organic texture underfoot.
Light and Air: Natural light is a cornerstone of Scandinavian design. Maximize the light in your space by using light-filtering curtains and strategically placed mirrors. Consider furniture with open backs or legs to enhance the feeling of spaciousness.
Neutral Color Palette: Create a calming atmosphere with a neutral color palette. Think soft whites, beiges, and grays, with pops of color sparingly introduced through artwork or throw pillows. This color scheme evokes a sense of serenity and allows the natural beauty of the wood tones to shine.
Beyond the Basics: While light wood tones, neutral colors, and natural light are key elements, Scandinavian design isn’t a rigid formula. Don’t be afraid to personalize your space with pops of color, vintage finds, or unique artwork that reflects your personality. The essence of Scandinavian design lies in creating a space that is both functional and calming, a true reflection of your desire for peace and tranquility.
Bohemian Chic: Evoking Comfort
Bohemian chic, or boho-chic for short, isn’t just a trend; it’s a state of mind. It’s about rejecting the ordinary and embracing a world of vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, and a touch of the unexpected. Imagine a space that feels like a well-traveled soul’s haven – a haven you can create right at home.
Here’s how to weave the magic of bohemian chic into your surroundings:
Embrace the Mix: Bohemian style thrives on a harmonious blend of seemingly disparate elements. Don’t be afraid to combine vintage finds with modern pieces, global textiles with bold patterns, and unexpected textures like macrame with smooth leather poufs.
Travel the World Through Décor: Boho-chic draws inspiration from cultures around the globe. Think colorful Moroccan poufs, intricately woven Turkish rugs, or a hand-carved Indian side table. Let your décor reflect your wanderlust or spark your curiosity for new adventures.
Textiles Tell a Story: Bohemian design is all about creating a layered, inviting atmosphere. Introduce a variety of textures through throw pillows adorned with ethnic patterns, chunky knit blankets draped over armchairs, or a luxurious sheepskin rug warming the hardwood floor.
More is More (But Edited): While layering is key, avoid clutter. Bohemian style isn’t about overwhelming the senses. Instead, curate a collection of meaningful pieces that tell a story and create a sense of lived-in comfort.
Welcome the Greenery Indoors: Plants are more than just decorations; they’re living additions to your bohemian sanctuary.
Fill your space with lush greenery – a cascading monstera plant in a woven basket, a vibrant spider plant hanging from the ceiling, or a collection of succulents displayed on a vintage windowsill.
Natural Materials Create Grounding: Bohemian design embraces the beauty of natural materials. Opt for furniture crafted from sustainable wood, or incorporate woven baskets and jute rugs to add a touch of organic warmth.
About Reborn Renovations
Reborn Renovations is Calgary’s renovation contractor of choice. Specialising in all aspects of home renovations and remodels, whether you’re looking for a more complex project like adding more square footage with a home addition, bringing the heart of your home into this decade by giving your kitchen a modern update, or a complete overhaul with a full interior or main floor renovation, the Reborn team has the experience, know-how and track record to show you that we’re your best choice when it comes to modernising or improving your home.
Methodology
The 2023 study on the effects of interior design on home environments was taken from the National Library of Medicine.
If you would like to use this story, please give a direct link to Reborn Renovations, who provided this information. This allows us to continue creating stories you may find useful.
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