Interior Design, Well-being and Relaxation: Design Choices that Reduce Stress and Anxiety

For most of us, home is one of the most important places there is. It’s the place to rest, feel safe, and share special moments with family and loved ones. Feeling good in your own home is essential for a person’s psychophysical well-being. Various studies have shown how proper organization of domestic spaces significantly increases individual well-being. In recent years, the world of Interior Design has turned with growing interest to these studies, and new trends have emerged, combining interior design and space organization with psychology. Let’s explore together some design choices that reduce stress and anxiety, which can be replicated anywhere, both at home and in the office.

Clear your Spaces

The solution may seem obvious, but to keep your mind clear of thoughts, it’s important to physically clear the environments we live in. An environment too full of objects mentally overloads us. This is why we increasingly hear about “decluttering,” which means removing all superfluous elements from an environment that only end up distracting and “weighing us down,” making concentration and tranquility difficult.

Create Space

Small spaces can make us feel confined. In most cases, physically expanding the spaces we live in is very difficult, if not impossible, but there are many strategies to implement to give more breathing room to an environment. First, it’s important to paint room walls using light colors. Paint the baseboards in a light color too, you’ll notice the effect immediately. If your home’s ceilings aren’t very high, favor low furniture, inspired by oriental tradition: rugs, small tables, floor futons. To create a sense of extended space, focus on using mirrors. These will create the optical illusion of a larger environment and, by reflecting light, will help make interiors naturally brighter.

Make the most of Natural Light

Sunlight is vitally important for every creature on earth. By illuminating us, the sun directly influences our natural biorhythm. Sunlight regulates the production of melatonin, a fundamental hormone for our sleep. Artificial lighting used incorrectly negatively affects our concentration, causes states of nervousness, and promotes the onset of insomnia. To create a relaxed environment, prioritize natural sunlight. Also help yourself with adjustable artificial lights, both in terms of intensity and tone. During activities such as work and reading, it’s important to have intense lighting that helps us avoid eye strain. In the evening, however, before going to bed, it’s best to minimize the use of artificial lights.

Choose the most Relaxing Colors

Colors have an immense power over our minds. All studies confirm that we are profoundly influenced by the color of objects surrounding us. To seek well-being and relaxation, favor soft colors on the scale of turquoise, antique pink, or green in different shades: mint green and aqua green primarily. These colors are considered regenerating and have a strong calming power. Don’t underestimate classic colors like cream and beige either. Warm colors are particularly suitable for rooms where meals are consumed, such as the dining room and kitchen.

Create your Wellness Area

An effective way to find mental well-being is to create a dedicated space for rest and tranquility. It could be a room, or even just a particular corner of the house. Create a comfortable and quiet space where you can dedicate time to yourself. It can be a place to read, meditate, or more generally, engage in activities that relax you most. You could add a kettle and cups for preparing infusions and herbal teas, or even candles, natural fragrances, and essential oils that promote relaxation. Don’t use this space for working from home or for carrying out other activities you consider duties. Dedicate this place to rest. Only then will your mind begin to associate that space with the deepest and most authentic relaxation.

Find your Style

To feel fully comfortable in your home or office, it’s essential that this place represents you, expresses your character and style. This way, you’ll feel truly in tune with your surrounding environment, feel positively stimulated and more relaxed. In this context, the consultation of an Interior Design expert plays a key role. A professional can help you realize ideas and desires in a concrete and functional way. Contact us now to learn more, we’ll call you back to arrange a free, no-obligation survey of the space you’d like to renovate, whether it’s an apartment or an office to be renovated.