Wellbeing by design
Design your home to elevate your wellbeing
In a world bustling with constant activity and noise, our homes serve as sanctuarties - a place to recharge, rejuvenate, and reconnect with ourselves. However, the significance of home design in nurturing our wellbeing often goes underestimated.
In this blog, we'll explore the profound impact that thoughtful building and interior design can have on our physical, emotional and mental health. We want to create spaces that promote relaxation and stress reduction to foster a creative and productive environment. We'll delve into the multifaceted way in which our living environments shape our overall sense of wellbeing.
Join us on a journey of ten design areas to elevate your home into a haven of tranquility and vitality.
1 Light
Human beings have an innate connection with natural daylight, which influences our wellbeing in profound ways. Our bodies instinctively synchronize with the changing hues of natural light throughout the day, favouring blue light in the morning and warmer tones like orange and red in the afternoon and evening. Conversely, inadequate electric lighting can lead to various issues such as eye strain, headaches, migraines, and even seizures for some individuals.
To optimise your home's lighting, prioritise maximising natural light wherever possible. Consider integrating features like skylights, sun tunnels, Velux windows, or expansive panes of glass in areas with ample ceiling height. When it comes to electric lighting, opt for high-quality fixtures that offer low glare, minimal flicker, and a high Color Rendering Index (CRI).
For those who work from home and struggle to access sufficient natural light in their office space, innovative solutions like the Dyson Solar Cycle Morph Lamp can be invaluable. Engineered to support wellbeing and task performance, this lamp intelligently tracks your local day light using a GPS driven algorithm, adjusting colour temperature and brightness every 60 seconds.
2 Materials
There are two elements to consider when thinking about materials for your build or renovation - the physical health impact of materials such as toxicity and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the psychological impact. It is important to have a clear understanding of the difference between 'healthy' and a 'sustainable' material.
It has been claimed that most adults inhale or ingest around a credit cards worth of micro plastics each week (University of Technology Sydney). VOCs an be released from materials we think of as sustainable such as plywood and MDF. Natural materials activate our parasympathetic nervous system, which acts to reduce stress and corisol levels, resulting in a happier home environment.
You can get specific health-certified materials especially for major materials. Also, seek to incorporate natural finishes such as wood and stone where you can. This barn conversion we renovated in Surrey had a beautiful abundance of oak and stone throughout.
3 Thermal comfort
Thermal comfort is something that people often have a different opinion on. Some people are 'hot people' and some people are 'cold people'. This can be a difficult issue as there are many elements at play such as daylight, energy use, building regs etc, as well as everybody's different internal thermostat. Research has found that we perform 15% poorer in hot conditions and 14% poorer in cold conditions (WELL) .
Achieving thermal comfort in the home is not just about maintaining a pleasant temperature; it's about creating a living environment where occupants feel consistently comfortable throughout the year. Whether you're building a new home or renovating an existing space, thoughtful consideration of thermal comfort is crucial for both physical wellbeing and energy efficiency.
Properly insulated walls, floors, and roofs help regulate indoor temperatures by minimising heat transfer between the interior and exterior environments. Additionally, investing in high-quality windows and doors with low U-values and good seals can prevent heat loss during colder months and minimise heat gain in warmer climates.
Moreover, incorporating passive design principles can further enhance thermal comfort while reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Strategic placement of windows and shading devices, along with the use of thermal mass to absorb and release heat, can help stabilize indoor temperatures and create a more comfortable living environment year-round.
4 Mind
When embarking on your home building or renovation project, it's essential to design with the mind in mind to create spaces that promote relaxation, clarity, and a sense of ease.
One key element is decluttering and optimising space. A clutter-free environment not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a home but also reduces stress and promotes mental clarity. Incorporating ample storage solutions into the design ensures that belongings can be neatly organised and easily accessed, further contributing to a sense of calm and orderliness. Fitted storage made by a high quality joiner will make a huge difference - see image below of fitted wardrobes in a home we recently renovated.
Creating designated areas for unwinding and relaxation is equally important. Whether it's a cosy reading nook bathed in natural light or a tranquil outdoor sanctuary, providing spaces for rest and rejuvenation allows occupants to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and recharge their mental batteries. Additionally, incorporating high ceilings and open floor plans can impart a sense of spaciousness, fostering a feeling of freedom and expansiveness within the home.
Personalisation is another crucial aspect of mindful design. Allowing individuals to tailor their living spaces to reflect their unique preferences and interests fosters a sense of ownership and belonging. Whether it's through artwork, furniture, or decor, infusing personal touches into the home creates a more intimate and meaningful living environment.
Finally, prioritising ease of navigation and functionality enhances the overall usability of the space and reduces cognitive load. Thoughtfully designed layouts, clear sightlines, and intuitive flow patterns ensure that occupants can move through the home effortlessly, contributing to a sense of comfort and wellbeing.
5 Air
The quality of the air we breathe in our homes directly impacts our health and wellbeing. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and exacerbation of existing conditions like asthma. Therefore, ensuring that the air in our living spaces is clean and fresh is paramount for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Investing in air purification products such as the Dyson air purifying fans, can significantly improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are highly effective at capturing airborne particles, making them an excellent choice for homes with allergy sufferers or individuals concerned about air quality. Air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters can also help remove odors and harmful gases from the air, providing an additional layer of purification.
In addition to standalone air purifiers, other products can contribute to cleaner indoor air. Ventilation systems, such as whole-house ventilation or exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, help remove stale air and moisture, reducing the risk of mold growth and improving overall air circulation. Furthermore, incorporating indoor plants known for their air-purifying properties, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants, can naturally filter toxins from the air while adding a touch of greenery to your home.
6 Water
Water quality is a fundamental aspect of a healthy home environment, with implications for both physical health and overall comfort. Ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for hydration, digestion, and overall wellbeing. Poor water quality, characterised by contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals, and pollutants, can pose significant health risks, ranging from gastrointestinal issues to long-term health effects.
In addition to the purity of the water itself, water pressure plays a crucial role in household functionality and convenience. Adequate water pressure is necessary for various everyday tasks, including showering, washing dishes, and laundry. Insufficient water pressure can result in slow-flowing taps, incomplete rinsing, and overall frustration for occupants. Conversely, excessive water pressure can strain plumbing systems, leading to leaks, bursts, and increased water consumption.
For those seeking an extra level of assurance regarding water quality, investing in water purification systems can provide peace of mind. Water filtration systems, such as under-the-sink filters or whole-house filtration systems, effectively remove impurities from tap water, improving taste and odor while reducing the risk of exposure to contaminants. Additionally, water softeners can help alleviate issues related to hard water, such as mineral buildup in plumbing fixtures and reduced effectiveness of soaps and detergents.
7 Nourishment
Nourishment is the cornerstone of health and wellbeing, and the kitchen serves as the heart of the home—a space where nourishing meals are prepared, shared, and enjoyed with loved ones. Designing a kitchen with health in mind is essential for promoting healthy eating habits and facilitating culinary creativity.
A well-designed kitchen encourages and facilitates healthy cooking practices by incorporating features that promote ease of meal preparation and access to nutritious ingredients. Ample counter space and efficient storage solutions ensure that fresh produce, whole grains, and other wholesome ingredients are readily available and easily accessible. Furthermore, intuitive layout and organization can streamline meal preparation, making it easier to whip up nutritious meals even on busy days.
In addition to functionality, aesthetics also play a crucial role in a health-focused kitchen design. Thoughtful use of natural light, calming colors, and inviting textures can create a pleasant and inspiring environment that encourages joyful cooking and dining experiences. Incorporating elements like indoor herb gardens or designated areas for growing fresh produce can further connect occupants with the nourishing power of whole foods.
8 Movement
Movement is another fundamental aspect of overall wellbeing, and our homes can play a significant role in facilitating an active lifestyle. Incorporating opportunities for movement within the home environment not only promotes physical health but also enhances mental clarity, mood, and overall vitality.
Creating spaces that encourage movement can be as simple as designing open floor plans that allow for fluid transitions between rooms or incorporating elements like stairs or standing workstations that encourage frequent movement throughout the day. Additionally, integrating dedicated exercise spaces, such as a home gym or yoga studio, provides opportunities for structured physical activity that can be tailored to individual preferences and fitness goals.
A home gym offers the convenience and privacy of exercising on your own schedule, eliminating barriers like travel time and gym memberships. Whether it's a small corner with basic equipment or a fully equipped fitness room, having a designated space for exercise encourages regular physical activity and supports long-term adherence to healthy habits.
9 Sound
Optimising acoustics in the home is essential for creating a peaceful and comfortable living environment where occupants can relax, focus, and enjoy moments of tranquility. Effective soundproofing techniques can help minimise unwanted noise from both internal and external sources.
When it comes to blocking out road noise or other external disturbances, soundproofing windows and doors are key. Double or triple-pane windows with insulating gas layers and thick, sound-absorbing curtains or blinds can significantly reduce the transmission of noise from outside, creating a quieter indoor environment. Additionally, sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and walls helps prevent sound leakage, further enhancing the effectiveness of soundproofing measures.
In addition to addressing external noise, soundproofing interior spaces can also contribute to optimal acoustics within the home. Installing sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic panels or cork flooring in high-traffic areas or rooms with hard surfaces can help reduce reverberation and echo, creating a more balanced and pleasant auditory experience. Furthermore, designing rooms with soundproofing in mind, such as incorporating thick walls, heavy doors, and resilient flooring, can help minimise noise transfer between rooms, allowing occupants to enjoy peace and privacy throughout the home.
10 Community
The sense of community plays a profound role in shaping our wellbeing and overall quality of life. Living in a vibrant and supportive community provides opportunities for social connection, mutual support, and a sense of belonging that are essential for our mental, emotional, and even physical health. Whether it's participating in neighborhood events, sharing resources with neighbours, or simply exchanging friendly greetings on the street, these interactions contribute to a sense of connection and fulfillment that enriches our lives.
Choosing the right location for your home is paramount to fostering a sense of happiness and connectedness. A community that aligns with your values, interests, and lifestyle preferences can greatly enhance your overall wellbeing. Factors such as proximity to amenities, cultural and recreational opportunities, and access to green spaces and outdoor activities all play a role in determining the suitability of a location for fostering community connections.
