Our homes should be sanctuaries where we can escape the stresses of daily life. The Mental Health Foundation emphasises this, and according to research, over 79% of UK adults report that their home environment has a massive impact on their mental wellbeing. With thoughtful design choices, you too can change your living spaces into a stress-free zone.
- Creating a relaxing atmosphere with lighting
Lighting is one of the most important aspects when it comes to setting the mood of any space. Soft, warm lighting improves relaxation by mimicking the gentle glow of sunrise or sunset, which triggers the body’s natural wind-down response. Dimmable fixtures give you control over brightness throughout the day, and layered lighting creates depth and ambiance. For outdoor spaces, festoon garden lights are ideal because they provide a soft, welcoming brightness that improves evening relaxation without harsh glare.
- Colour schemes that promote calm
The colours surrounding us affect our emotional state. Soft blues evoke clear skies and calm waters, and gentle greens, for example, connect us to nature and lower anxiety. Studies suggest that blue-green hues can lower heart rate and blood pressure, which in turn promotes a sense of calm. Neutrals like warm greys, soft beiges, and muted taupe create a soothing backdrop that doesn’t overwhelm the senses.
- Maximising comfort with furniture and layout
Choose furniture that invites relaxation with ergonomic support and comfortable textures. A well-designed layout creates flow, which reduces physical and mental barriers. Keep pathways clear and arrange seating to encourage conversation while you maintain personal space. Alternatively, you can incorporate varied seating options to accommodate different relaxation preferences—from upright supportive chairs to deep, cushioned sofas.
- Mindful materials and textures
Natural materials ground us in our environments while adding sensory richness. Wood elements bring warmth and organic character, and stone features add an elemental stability. You can layer textures through soft throws, cushions, and area rugs to create tactile comfort. These touchable elements invite physical relaxation and create visual depth.
- Incorporating nature into your home
Houseplants do more than beautify spaces, as they often actively improve wellbeing. Royal Horticultural Society studies show that indoor plants can reduce fatigue and headaches by 20-25 per cent. Even small natural elements such as a bowl of pinecones, fresh flowers, or botanical prints can conjure up calming natural connections.
- Creating a peaceful bedroom retreat
You can change your bedroom into a true sanctuary by keeping decor minimal and focusing instead on quality sleep essentials. Choose natural bedding materials that regulate temperature and reduce allergens, and eliminate electronic distractions at the same time you add blackout options for optimal sleep conditions.
- Designing a garden that promotes relaxation
You can further extend your sanctuary outdoors with a thoughtfully designed garden space. For this, you can create defined areas for relaxation using comfortable seating, lush plantings, and soothing water features.
When you are able to implement these design principles throughout your home and garden, you can create these spaces that support mental wellbeing and give you much-needed respite from daily stressors.
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