What makes a well-designed living room? The answer is as subjective as the question. In my eyes, a beautifully designed living room will complement your life. Like a great novel, it feels like it was made just for you. The layout brings freedom and comfort. Tables and chairs hug you. Light dances. Everything do. And like the living room design ideas prove that, it’s a space that promotes health.
The intersection of beauty and health is where interior designers Sarah Barnard and Lauren Sullivan thrived. Barnard, founder and principal of Sarah Barnard Design, believe that our homes offer the greatest potential when our needs are considered paramount. “Functional must be the foundation of any designed space, with aesthetics working to support and build upon the core needs of the occupants,” says Barnard. In essence, a well-designed room service friend.
This ethos is shared by Sullivan, founder and principal of Well x Design. As her company’s name suggests, health is just as important as beauty. “I always start with the ‘how to’,” says Sullivan. “How will my client use the space and how we want the space to feel.”
Barnard and Sullivan’s approach goes back to my original question. They also inspire a healthy way to approach home decor: What’s best for your health may just be the fundamental key to your most beautifully designed space.
Featured image of Teal Thomsen.
5 living room design ideas to support your style and health
Tip #1: Consider your needs
Of all the living room design ideas, one of the most overlooked is focusing on what you want the room to offer. “Our homes and rooms should be optimized for ease of use and enjoyable experiences,” believes Barnard, who says that a well-designed room of any kind starts with a need. your request.
“Efficiency and functionality may sound a bit utilitarian or cold at first, but it’s about creating an inviting and comfortable space.”
Consider what you want from your living room: A place to entertain guests? An area to receive guests with a book? Perhaps you enjoy watching television with loved ones? These questions will inform health-focused decisions around the furniture and layout you choose.
Photo of Kate Zimmerman Turpin
Tip #2: Weave with natural textiles
Our homes are often filled with materials and furniture that emit pollutants. While a perfect non-toxic home While it may not be feasible, says Sullivan, making small and smart decisions to incorporate natural materials and textiles will go a long way. Sullivan recommends choosing naturally sustainable materials like pure cotton, wool or linen.
Also, buy solid wood furniture when possible. “Technical woods such as medium-density fiberboard, chipboard, and plywood are treated at higher temperatures, which increases the amount of formaldehyde released by furniture when compared to solid wood,” says Sullivan.
Tip #3: Choose the Function Tool
Before incorporating a new piece, ask yourself: What is its purpose and how will it benefit this room and life? This question emphasizes the drive towards functional tools — that is, items that serve a need. “For example, a reading light can be primarily thought of as a functional tool,” says Barnard. “Having something beautifully shaped or emitting a soft light reminiscent of fire light can add an element of beauty, comfort and relaxation beyond just illuminating a favorite book. prefer.”
Tip #4: Rely on natural light
While functional lights are necessary, it is important to take advantage of what nature has to offer. Sullivan recommends doing this by respecting any scenery and light that spills through the windows. “Studies have shown that patients in hospitals have faster recovery rates when their rooms have natural light and views of nature,” she said. If your living room lacks windows, Sullivan says consider strategically placed mirrors to let in light and “expand your space.” And always plant combination!
Tip #5: Go slow
Sullivan believes that the “have it now” mentality – that is, the need to have the latest and greatest in home decor – can get in the way of designing that benefits your needs and health. “Sourcing quality new products, or vintage, can take a long time,” she adds. Instead of buying a sofa or table, says Sullivan, “to fill a void,” take the time to find “that special, quality piece that can outlast any poor-quality replacement.” any amount”. The slow approach also allows you to research your habits and needs so you can decorate to suit you best. “Intent and Impact” leads to better health.
