Creating a Soulful Environment in your Home
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” ~William Morris
Moreau Designs created this space at the Designer Showhouse for Junior League of Hartford . It’s a good example of a nourishing and calming space that you can create in your home. Photography: Sandy Lisella
Creating a connection in your home with living spaces that nourish your sense of well being is within reach. We live in a day and age of constant on the go attitudes and busy is the new normal. What happens when we slow down? Or do you slow down? How does this relate to your home environment? I’m going to give you some ideas to incorporate key elements to reduce stress and allow you to relax fully in your home.
Artisan made pottery by Vicente Garcia Studios sits atop a custom designed bench top by Tiger Lily Furniture and a base fabricated by Shelby Barnhardt Studios
So what are the key elements?
The use of Living and natural things~This is an easy one,understanding the concept that plants do cleanse our air as well as give us a sense of fresh beginnings and beauty. It is also a movement that is trending right now, called Biophilic Design, which is the practice of bringing natural elements inside. It includes not only plants, but wood, stone and water. You may notice this trend in commercial spaces, but lately I have several requests for use in private residences.
Soothing Colors and bridging elements ~ I cannot stress enough the importance of the pyschology of color…It will make the space more calming when you also pair what is outside the window with a color that compliments or is in direct relation. I used blue that not only ties in with the wallpaper, but it is a reflection of the water outside the sun room windows. Elements that you can bring indoors like this indirect nod to the birds that inhabit this property, by using the wallpaper, on the ceiling-birds in flight and on the wall peacock plumes helps ground the space and create that connection.
Texture/softness ~ It is soothing for the eye to have these elements in a space as your eye doesn’t settle on one particular thing. Texture also encompasses the sense of touch. The sisal rug, linen panels and color palette that is harmonious are valuable in a space that is great for decompressing.
Light ~Natural diffused light is the best, but when you can’t have that you can mimic it with artificial lighting. Many lighting companies have bulbs that can create a natural looking light.
Open and clean spaces ~ Clutter is definitely a distraction and having spaces that you edit relentlessly is really allowing you to think and function properly.
Unplug the world ~No phones, computers, radios etc. Probably the hardest thing to do is put down that phone, but it gives you a moment to recharge.
Scent ~ the power of a beautiful fragrance, it can be a great way to relax. Whether it’s a candle, incense or diffused oil you can create this all important layer for the senses.
This living wall was created in the showhouse by using succulents. I wanted to create a natural flow by predetermining the design on a piece of tracing paper that was then set underneath for the horticulturist , Nancy Butler to mimic the curve. Wallpaper: Relativity Textiles
A great example of incorporating natural elements with this pottery and air plants/moss. Notice the water like pattern and coloration of pottery. I also like that there is a very natural element of wabi sabi with the stitching of the cracked pottery.
Looking outside these windows, this spectacular view of the pond is brought inside with the color and shapes incorporated in this space. The bench serves two purposes, for display of plants and a quick meditation area by adding pillows underneath.
Whether you have a full room or a dedicated corner in your home for unwinding, it can prove to be helpful in overall health and productivity in your life. I would love to answer any questions you have in the comments below!
Blessings,
Jennifer