Shannon Faye
Interior Design Consultant | Decorator
My first question to a client is, “What do you want to accomplish with this re-design? What do you like?” The most common response is, “I don’t know, that is why I am here. I need the help of a professional.”
Indeed.
There are two major environments that can be remodeled time and again. They are meant to evolve in tandem as they have a symbiotic relationship.
HUMAN | PHYSICAL
I have observed that many people are not aware of how much these two environments influence and impact each other. In my opinion, the HUMAN environment is the most critical of the two. Without it, there is no need for the physical environment. Yet, the physical environment that we work, live and play in profoundly affects the human environment to the point of strongly influencing, even dictating mood and behavior.
Did you know?
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Color affects our disposition and can even persuade our state of mind. If one is in the process of practicing being calm and peaceful because they are under stress, a red room could work against your goal. If one is working on being more cheerful and optimistic about their perspective on life, yellow inspires a merrier disposition over blue, for example.
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Lighting has a powerful effect on our mood and one’s safety. If an area is too dimly lit, the probability of accidents go up. Lighting that is uneven and “dappled” can cause disorientation and agitation at the strain of trying to process what one is looking at. Daylight encourages happiness. Warm light creates comfort. Blue light can create a sense of cool and relaxation.
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Architectural structuring of a room can dictate one’s sense of freedom, confinement, connection or isolation. How many windows? How low is the ceiling? How obtrusive are the walls?
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Elements of decor can trigger pleasant or unpleasant memories. For some, contemporary furniture gives them a sense calm and organization while others feel cold and isolated.
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Persuasive Design uses furnishings and layout to create an “argument” for behavioral change in a client. For example, If one wanted to move people along quickly they would offer uncomfortable seating. If one wanted people to gather and stay, one would offer comfortable seating.
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Spatial Perception based design can change our perception of the size of a space without actually making any structural changes. If one had a small room adding large geometry over mosaic size geometry can make a room feel more spacious.
This is only a glimpse at the psychology that goes into creating spaces designed not just for aesthetics and function but, purpose as well. Perhaps it is easier to see how important a role interior design plays in our lives. Interior design has a prominent effect on our wellbeing and lifestyle.
Many of us are in the process of shifting our thinking and health into a place of greater empowerment for a better quality of life. Each of us has a unique expression of empowerment. What empowerment means for one person may not be what it means for someone else. What we all have in common is, the need for environmental support for any significant changes we are making in our lives. Whether one is practicing a new way of thinking or a new way of living, “new” is often a fragile state of being. Creating an environment that nurtures change or supports a desired lifestyle helps ensure longevity.
Back to the original question, “Does your HUMAN environment need a remodel?”
I can’t answer that for you. In fact, no one can but you. That said, there are questions that can help. If your designer asks you, “What do you want to accomplish with this re-design? What do you like?” and your answer is, “I don’t know…” that is something to consider. The stronger our relationship is with self, the easier it is to discover what we like and don’t like, what we need, what we want to accomplish and what makes us happy. As a designer, I can’t give you an identity or tell you what will or won’t make you filled with joy and inspired. I can create an environment that will support the quality of life that you want and encourage warmth and optimism based on your individual personality. It is your unique journey and life that give my interior design life. The most magical projects come from clients expressing their individual needs and desires.
I am no expert on remodeling the HUMAN environment. I have had to do some personal remodeling myself from time to time. I have had to evolve with intention in order to be happier and healthier. Based on my personal redesign, I have created my own sanctuaries to support my lifestyle. The results are FABULOUS.
That is why I have curated a community of people who specialize in the HUMAN environment. I know how happy I am so, I wanted to be able to share my “secret” with others and “pay it forward”. That is what community is about. When we come across great quality services and products we Yelp it, FB it, Instagram it and Pin it.
I LOVE designing the spaces that you work, live and play in. I LOVE telling your story through your physical environment. I LOVE supporting your lifestyle through interior design.
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