What is Holistic Interior Design?

The Power of Holistic Interior Design

We all know it to be true - the world can be a stressful and overwhelming place. No matter where you live, life can exhaust you and bring worries and fears. To counter this experience, balance and harmony are increasingly sought after. As an interior decorator/designer, I am passionate about creating spaces that not only please the eye, but also provide that comfort and peace that we all need to live our best lives; And that’s where holistic interior design comes in!

But what exactly does “holistic design” mean?

In this blog post, I’ll explain the ins and outs of how designing to create a relaxing space makes a true impact on your day-to-day lives. Every element is meticulously chosen to create an environment that resonates with both the physical and emotional needs of its occupants.

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Everything is Connected

At its core, holistic design is a philosophy that seeks to create spaces that honor the interconnectedness of all elements within an environment. It goes beyond aesthetics and functionality, delving into the realms of well-being and sustainability. Holistic design acknowledges that our surroundings have a profound impact on our physical and emotional health, and therefore, every aspect of a space should be intentionally designed to promote balance and harmony.

Balancing Form and Function

One of the key tenets of holistic design is the harmonious balance between form and function. While aesthetics play a vital role in creating an inviting atmosphere, the functionality of a space should never be compromised. Holistic designers, like myself, prioritize both aspects equally, ensuring that every element serves a purpose while contributing to the overall visual appeal.

Embracing Natural Elements

Nature plays a central role in holistic design, as well as my own personal design style. Holistic designers believe nature is a powerful source of inspiration and healing. We often incorporate natural elements such as wood, stone, water features, and abundant natural light into our designs. I personally love to include a lot of live plants, where possible, to add to the air purification of a home. Where there isn’t enough light for live plants, I still like to include dried flowers or grasses. I find that these still bring the outdoors inside while providing this beautiful reminder of the cycle of life and death. All of these elements not only enhance the visual appeal of a space but also create a connection with the natural world, promoting a sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Mindful Material Selection

In the pursuit of sustainability, holistic designers are meticulous about the materials we choose. Sustainable and eco-friendly materials are favored, as they reduce the environmental impact of a space (and on the world at large). Additionally, our selection of materials takes into account their impact on indoor air quality and overall health. From low-VOC paints to recycled and reclaimed materials, every choice is made with mindfulness. When working with clients, we do everything we can to follow sustainable practices in their design plans.

Fostering Energy Flow

Holistic design places great emphasis on the flow of energy within a space. The arrangement of furniture, the use of specific colors and patterns, and the placement of decor items are all carefully considered. The goal is to encourage a positive and easy energy flow and to minimize stagnation and triggering visuals. Feng Shui principles often play a role in shaping the arrangement of elements.

The Holistic Approach to Wellness

Beyond aesthetics and sustainability, holistic design is deeply rooted in promoting well-being. Spaces are designed to support physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. This may involve incorporating spaces for meditation, exercise, or relaxation, as well as optimizing lighting, acoustics, and air quality for a healthier living environment.

Peace Begins At Home

The home page of my website touts the message “Peace begins at home”. This is where that sentiment comes from. Holistic interior design is not merely a philosophy; it's a way of life. It is a form of celebrating the experience of being alive in all its beautiful dimensions.

It encourages us to live in harmony with our surroundings, fostering a sense of balance and well-being in our daily lives. As a holistic designer, I believe that no matter where you live, your space has the potential to be a source of inspiration and rejuvenation. Whether you are in a temporary apartment, a van, or your forever home, your well-being is important.

My hope is to make holistic interior design accessible to more people, no matter where they are in their lives. I’m passionate about the belief that beautiful homes shouldn’t be reserved for the wealthy. The more peace that can be created for all people in their own homes, the more peace we bring into the world at large; And that makes a better life for everyone.

Meet The Designer

Hey y’all! I’m Kathryn.

Interior Decorator, Plant Lover, Peacemaker

I love making spaces feel cozy, inviting, and warm. I think a home can absolutely be “imperfect” and even more special because of it. Function is just as important as design, and a space shouldn’t make your life harder to navigate. Good design makes things easier while also giving you a sense of comfort. You deserve it!

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