The Peaceful Home
As a professional interior designer I offer my expertise and insight for my client’s home interiors. So often when I come for the initial consultation I feel like an observer into their lives. And essentially that’s what I am - a non-judgemental home therapist that offers an objective (and kind) opinion on what’s not working – and what is. I also offer ideas on what can stay - things we can work with – and what has to go!
The first thing I always say to a new client is that I ONLY SEE POTENTIAL in their home! My vision for their personal spaces is about improving their lives, both functionally and aesthetically. If you are looking for some positive, fresh energy in your home you can look at a few basic starting points;
1. De-Clutter and Organize: We all know it’s true – most of us have way to much stuff. And often the design process and renovation will in some part help some this problem from the get-go. Because in order to start a renovation – you need to clean out that area we’ll be working on. So even if you aren’t planning a major re-do to a space in your home, De-Clutter. Everything looks better and bigger – less in this case is definitely more!
2. Improve Your Lighting: Yes, I will admit I am a lighting junkie – good light makes a room feel bigger and better – just remember if you are switching to LEDs, don’t go above 3000K color temperature as everything will appear too white!
3. Don’t be afraid of color – a peaceful home should feel good and natural to its inhabitants. So don’t feel like you have to keep things neutral and boring! The only time I really direct clients to stay away from certain colors is in the bedroom where greens and blues will keep the energy at a good level for destressing at the end of the day.
4. Let Your Home Express Yourself in an Organized Way. Wall Art and bookcases are a great way to express ourselves. But do it with a plan! Take the time to thoughtfully arrange your wall art with meaning and purpose – have a layout plan and stick with it.
5. We are Tactile Creatures: Surrounding yourself with things that feel good and absorb noises and reflective light will naturally keep your home interiors feeling peaceful.
6. Add Living Things: Plants will not only naturally improve air quality but nature has a way of calming the soul – just remember to keep your plants healthy – otherwise they will just stress you out!
The list of ways to add peace and serenity to your homes and workplaces is seemingly endless. And its important to look at the manufacturing process and materials you bring into your interiors, too. Not to mention the products you use to keep your homes clean. But that’s a topic for another day. For now take the time to look at the place where you live and see if it needs a peaceful check up! You can positively affect your life just by making some simple changes in your home interiors!