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How Our Home’s Design Influences Our Wellbeing

The space in which we choose to live has an enormous impact upon our wellbeing and outlook on life. If our homes do not bring us joy or support restoration and relaxation, how can we be expected to prosper and find happiness? This is why interior design is a crucial part of property ownership and why there is such an expansive community surrounding its study, especially when considering what is referred to as the architecture of happiness.

While the exact elements and style that work for individual wellbeing are too varied and, ultimately, subjective, there are a number of key elements, the fundamentals of a home’s design, that should be considered. How we choose to approach these in our homes most often affect the impression our living spaces have upon us.

Lighting

Illumination is often treated with only a basic approach. If it brightens the room, it functions. However, the way we choose to light a space changes the way we utilise it both practically and emotionally. Cold, blueish bulbs, for example, are associated with energy and stimulation, whereas warm, orange bulbs create a softer, cosier atmosphere. This means that the bulb you choose should match the intended function of a space. Colder lighting in a bedroom will make it harder to relax.

By the same token, natural lighting can help a space feel wonderfully organic and close to nature. It can even make a space feel larger too, which is why many seek to welcome a greater amount of sunlight into their annexe and log cabin spaces, since they not only eliminate the need for intricate wiring installations but can also make even a small space feel expansive.

Concealment

When designing a home, our initial inclination can be to prioritise the objects and furniture we want on show. Perhaps more importantly, we should consider storage options and how we can conceal the items we don’t want to display or only need infrequent access to.

This is because the objects which do not fit our chosen aesthetic or feel cumbersome when present, such as clunky vacuum cleaners, actually detract from our ability to relax in a space simply by being present.

Colour

In the same way that we are drawn to wear clothing of a certain design and style, we will experience a greater pleasure when we express ourselves in the rooms we occupy. Colour is a brilliant gateway to do so, instantly echoing our personalities. Pastels and muted shades can communicate and express the qualities of a calmer mind, while bold and bright colours can celebrate those who are full of energy.

This colour consideration isn’t only confined to paint surfaces either and it should extend to your furniture and embellishments too. And, if a piece doesn’t exactly match your criteria, it can easily be changed with the presence of a complementary item, such as the white sofa that is elevated with a navy blue blanket or the brown windowsill that is enlivened with yellow plant pots.