- January 27, 2026
- Martha
Happy New Year!
I hope the year has gotten off to a good beginning for everyone. I am looking forward to creating beautiful, functional environments for many of you. This year, the newsletter will focus on wellness-driven design with an emphasis on neuroaesthetics and biophilic design. The practice of intentional interior design has been proven to have a profound effect on our personal health and well-being.
The Beauty of Classical Design
The ancient Greeks first introduced the concept of aesthetics in the built environment. This can be observed today in their use of natural materials, an emphasis on natural light, repetition of pattern and scale (fractals in nature), and symmetry.
The acknowledgement of beauty was an important step forward for civilization at the time. The philosopher Plato wrote, “The contemplation of beauty causes the soul to grow wings.”
Two Truths and a Lie
- Beauty is subjective. Neuro-aesthetics is the study of how we react to beauty in the world.
- We all bring different ideas to the table about what is beautiful based on context, culture, and experience.
- The concept of beauty is only relevant to humans.
The first two bullets are true. Beauty is not objective but subjective. Everyone brings a different understanding to the table as to what we find attractive or appealing. This is based on our context, age, the culture we are raised in, and our individual experiences.
The reaction to beauty is based in the hippocampus area of the brain and can be evaluated. Neuro-aesthetics is the study of the brain’s reaction to beauty.
However, the concept of beauty is not solely observed in humans. Consider the mating habits of birds and how certain species decorate an area to attract a mate. This, too, can be a quantifiable reaction.
What About Your Home Keeps You Up at Night?
Consider the popular show on HGTV called Ugliest Houses in America. Do you have spaces in your home that you think would qualify?
- Many of us are fatigued by the clutter in our homes and therefore consider certain spaces ugly. Consider reading The Swedish Art of Death Cleaning to inspire you to tackle clutter in your home. There are also numerous publications available to inspire us to address this issue.
- Tackle one area at a time and be ruthless. Do not try to do it in one afternoon. Set aside an hour every few days to sort and determine what to keep, throw away, or donate. Consider hiring a professional organizer if the task feels overwhelming.
The Joy of Being a Designer
As an interior designer with over 30 years of experience, I find great joy in making my clients’ wishes for a beautiful and functional environment a reality. To that end, I spend a great deal of time listening to what my clients dream their home can be.
In addition, knowing that I am contributing to their well-being by creating a space that is visually appealing and brings them calm and satisfaction is the best reward for me. My clients’ smiles also light up my life.
One of My Favorite Quotes:
“The best rooms have something to say about the people who live in them.”
— Southwind Design Firm
