Interior design has always been determined by how a space looks and functions. But what if we took it one step further and focused on how a space feels? This is the practice of holistic interior design.
When someone buys a house, they often say ‘it felt like our home’ or ‘I knew it was the one right away’.
The feeling we get when we walk into a room is instinctual. It’s the same feeling we get when we come across someone we instantly like or dislike. We all have a gut feeling when we walk into a room whether we are aware of it or not.
The practice of acknowledging our gut feelings while marrying style, function and wellbeing is called holistic interior design.
What is holistic interior design?
The Holistic Interior Design approach considers style and function as well as our mental and physical health. It’s a practice deeply rooted in creating a home that enhances our lifestyle and wellbeing.
The word ‘holistic’ is most often applied to health and wellness. We’re all aware of the important connection between mental and physical health and our overall happiness. We understand that nutrition, movement, time in nature, and community are all aspects of a balanced lifestyle.
We know that holistic wellness is all about finding a balance between the mind, body and soul. Holistic interior design just adds one more element: it’s about finding a balance between the mind, body, soul and environment.
Why is holistic design important?
Now more than ever, we need spaces that support us. Not just physically, as in having a place to sleep, but also emotionally and spiritually.
We have been stuck at home for over a year. People have created meditation corners and small home offices to make the most out of their space. They’ve started painting their walls with colours that bring them joy out of boredom. They’re buying plants and starting DIY projects. I mean, lumber and supply prices are through the roof! See where I’m going with this?
The entire world is thinking about holistic interior design right now!
Cultivating a healthy and fulfilling home life has never been more important. As we transition out of the pandemic era, we are taking these principles with us. We are thinking about ‘home’ in a completely new way.
Design that aligns
If I’m honest, the term ‘Holistic Interior Design’ is relatively new for me.
But as it turns out, I’ve been unknowingly talking about Holistic Interior Design for years. I’ve written blog posts like Home is a Feeling, and published articles about Home Happiness, never once realizing that there is a very real practice in the design industry.
Alycia Wicker
When people walk into my home, they always tell me how relaxing it is. They feel comfortable, welcomed and safe in a way that they can’t describe. If you know me, this is the best endorsement or compliment I could ever receive! I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how I want to feel at home and how I want my guests to feel. Now that I have the vocabulary to explain this practice, I’m so excited to share how I’ve been practicing holistic design for the last 8 years.
Next time you walk into a house or a restaurant, take a second to notice how you feel. Do you feel calm and relaxed? Are you on edge? See how your body reacts to your environment. Did you notice anything? Let me know in the comments!
If you’re interested in learning more, I’m now offering holistic interior decorating services!
