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How Interior Design Can Influence Your Health- Yes, Really

  • Writer: Stephanie Larsen
    Stephanie Larsen
  • May 14
  • 2 min read

Photography by Laura Moss.
Photography by Laura Moss.

When you think about your health, your mind probably goes to things like nutrition, sleep, and movement. But what if your home—the place where you start and end every single day—is quietly shaping your physical and mental wellbeing too?

This isn’t just a feel-good idea. The relationship between design and wellness is backed by science, and it’s something we consider in every project we take on. Here’s why it matters—and what to look for in your own space.


1. Air Quality Starts with Design

Most people don’t realize that many common building materials—flooring adhesives, paints, sealants—can release toxins into your home’s air. Over time, that exposure can affect everything from your breathing to your sleep quality. In our work, we focus on sourcing low- or no-VOC materials and prioritizing ventilation so you’re not just breathing easy—you’re breathing cleaner.


Photography by Laura Moss.
Photography by Laura Moss.

2. Natural Light Impacts Your Sleep and Mood

Lighting is more than ambiance. It directly affects your circadian rhythm, which controls your sleep-wake cycle. Homes that are designed to maximize morning light in the right rooms and minimize exposure to bright, artificial light at night can actually help regulate your body clock. The result? Better energy during the day, deeper rest at night.


Photography by Laura Moss.
Photography by Laura Moss.

3. The Layout of Your Home Can Increase or Decrease Stress

Ever feel unsettled in a space but can’t quite explain why? Cluttered or awkward layouts can cause a constant, low-level tension in your body. We approach space planning with intention—making sure that sightlines are clear, rooms have natural flow, and each space serves its purpose without competing for attention.


Photography by Laura Moss.
Photography by Laura Moss.

4. Materials Matter—To Your Skin, Nervous System, and Mind

You touch your home all day long. The counters you lean on, the textiles you curl up with, even the floors you walk across in bare feet—all of these materials affect your sensory experience. Natural, organic textures tend to support calm, while overly synthetic or chemically-treated materials can cause irritation or overstimulation.


Photography by Laura Moss.
Photography by Laura Moss.

5. Emotional Health Lives in the Details

Design has the power to soothe or stimulate your nervous system. A chaotic room can make you feel anxious, while a thoughtfully designed space can help you exhale. That sense of “this just feels good” isn’t random—it’s created through proportion, contrast, and intention.


What This Means For You

You don’t need to do a full renovation to start thinking differently about your space. Start by observing:

  • How much natural light do you get in the morning?

  • Are you using any products with harsh chemical smells?

  • Do you have spaces that feel cluttered or heavy?

  • What materials surround you when you’re resting?


These small cues can reveal how your environment is impacting your health—sometimes in ways you haven’t even noticed yet.


At our studio, this is the foundation of every project: helping clients create homes that feel as good as they look. Design that supports your wellness isn’t a luxury. It’s a lifestyle shift—and once you experience the difference, you’ll never go back.



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