Staff Reports | Real Property & Homes
As demand for healthier living spaces increases, so, too, do interior design options for those looking to infuse comfort and wellness-focused features into their homes.
Lauded IMI Design Studio founder and Interior Designer Anita Lang is among those optimizing Arizona’s most luxurious residences for better living by integrating innovative elements and thoughtful design practices that enhance physical, emotional and mental well-being.
From integrating saunas and steam rooms to incorporating biophilic design ideas, these tips help homeowners create spaces that ease stress, encourage relaxation and otherwise contribute to a happier, healthier lifestyle.
- Opt for natural, non-toxic materials.
Taking advantage of natural, non-toxic materials like clay, terra cotta and bamboo reduces indoor air pollution and minimizes exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals and additives. While incorporating natural materials and finishes creates an eco-friendlier living space, it can also boost aesthetic appeal, adding texture and architectural interest to your home. - Swap microwaves out for steam ovens.
Steam ovens are surging in popularity, and with good reason. Steaming food preserves more of its nutrients than cooking it in a microwave, and steam ovens also reduce chemical exposure risks related to microwave use, diminishing potential health hazards. They also look sleek and modern, cook food faster than traditional convection ovens and help lock in flavor and moisture, leading to better-tasting meals. - Incorporate herb gardens & solariums.
Homeowners are more likely to enjoy fresh herbs when they’re readily available and easily accessible, and incorporating herb gardens into a home is an easy way to encourage healthy eating. Exposure to greenery and the great outdoors also elevates moods and encourages relaxation, with solariums serving as smart design options that connect residents with their natural surroundings. - Destress and detoxify with saunas and steam showers.
Incorporating saunas and steam showers is another way to enhance home wellness, especially in homes with gyms or sport courts inside. These additions can alleviate joint pain, speed up muscle recovery and improve circulation, aiding in post-workout relaxation and stress reduction. The use of saunas not only offers physical benefits but also improves overall well-being.
Increased blood flow to the brain and body can enhance immune system function and support brain health. Additionally, the cleansing action of sweating helps flush out impurities, improving skin health and clarity. - Improve strength, agility and coordination with sport courts, home gyms, and cold plunge.
Having a home gym or sport court can increase the likelihood of exercising, and it also gives residents more time to do so by eliminating travel to and from the gym or trail. The convenience a home gym or athletic court offers also encourages a consistent fitness routine, making it easier for residents to set and achieve personal fitness goals. The cold plunge, our number one client request, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and invigorates both the body and mind for a truly refreshing experience. - Enhance focus and clarity with meditation or yoga spaces.
Creating a designated space for yoga or meditation can increase mindfulness and encourage mental clarity, leading to emotional advantages and benefits in overall well-being. It’s proven that if you spend even 10 minutes a day in meditation, you can significantly reduce stress levels, improve focus, and promote a greater sense of inner peace. - Add a saltwater pool.
Saltwater pools don’t need harsh chemicals for maintenance, making them easier on the skin, hair and eyes than a traditional, chlorinated pool. Swimming is also a great low-impact exercise for all ages that can improve cardiovascular health and sleep quality, helping residents relax and recoup after a long, stressful day. - Encourage connections with nature.
Spending time amidst greenery leads to mood-boosting and mental health benefits, so incorporating indoor plants and natural materials into a home’s design scheme is a great way to strengthen connections with nature. Adding water features and stone fixtures can further connect a home’s residents with their natural surroundings, contributing to improved rest and relaxation. - Incorporate ergonomic design features for older adults.
Older adults who enjoy living independently can incorporate ergonomic design features that enhance overall wellness and help them “age in place.” From walk-in tubs to smart home and light technologies, incorporating elements that make everyday life easier increases comfort, safety and long-term well-being. - Maximize natural light and healthier lighting systems.
Incorporating natural light into a home does more than just enhance ambiance – it also elevates Vitamin D levels and improves focus, productivity and mood. When natural light isn’t available, Ketra light systems can mimic it, and they’re easy to integrate with other smart home technologies so homeowners can customize theirs to match their schedules, routines and preferences.
A home is a place for relaxation and rejuvenation. By incorporating elements and design features that enhance health and wellness, Arizona homeowners can make the most of their time spent at home and embrace a healthier, happier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
