4 minute read
Interior design secrets that help reduce stress
67
Use accent pieces to add interest.
Advertisement
written by SARAH REED AND SHAWN MUMMA
LA ROUGE DESIGNERS
The way we design our home and work environments can have a dramatic impact on our stress levels and emotions. Learn to make your surroundings more peaceful and calming so you feel at ease all day long. Here are some decorating ideas that will soothe all of your senses.
VISUAL TECHNIQUES
1Opt for warm colors.
Warm colors tend to advance toward your eye to create a more intimate feel. Colors have different degrees of warmth, depending on the shades you pick. Warm colors help heat up adjoining cool colors. That means you can include any of your favorite colors, as long as you pick the right shades and coordinate carefully.
2Get organized.
Clearing clutter will instantly make any space look more serene. Plus, it won’t cost you a penny! Return everything to its proper place. Sell or donate stuff you no longer use.
3Layer lighting.
Take advantage of as much natural light as possible. Trade in your harsh overhead lights and high-wattage bulbs for a variety of oor and table lamps that provide a softer effect. Mirrors also will brighten things up.
4Work with the space you’ve got.
If you need to tie together a big area, consider decorating with patterns. A striped couch will make your living room look cozier. On the other hand, when you’re trying to feel less cramped, select furniture with legs, cutouts and/or clear tops to maximize your air space.
SOUND EFFECTS
1Get a water fountain.
The sound of running water has appealed to people for centuries. You can even get desktop fountains for your of ce or solar-powered versions for your garden if you want something environmentally friendly.
2Hang wind chimes.
Try hanging a few on your back porch. If you prefer birdsong, put out a feeder. You’ll get serenaded every morning.
3Play digital les.
Wherever you live or travel, you can access pleasant sounds with your laptop or media player. Browse online or download an app with recordings of falling rain, splashing waves or the natural music of the Florida Everglades.
SCENT APPEAL
1Pick up a di user.
Diffuser kits with natural reeds disperse scent for months. Using them is a way to avoid the safety risks of leaving burning candles unattended.
2Rely on traditional scents.
Oils like lavender, chamomile and sandalwood are old favorites because they help calm the mind. If you have a green thumb, try some living herbs. Lavender is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Just cut a few sprigs and bring them indoors whenever you need to add freshness to a room.
3Experiment with new fragrances.
If you want variety, shop around for new oils. Neroli is becoming increasingly popular. The fragrance is produced from bitter-orange blossoms and has a subtle, but complex owery aroma.
68
TEXTURAL ELEMENTS
1Put something unusual on the walls.
There’s more to wall art than framed paintings and photographs. Try an unusual, touch-inviting object, like a twisted rubber sculpture.
2Pay attention to your bedding.
You spend about a third of your life sleeping, so turn your bed into a comfort zone. Stock up on feather beds, soft flannel sheets and plush comforters.
3Use accent pieces to add interest.
Unusual and inexpensive accent pieces can add textural interest to any room. Knit your own throw blanket for a sofa or make small pillows covered in soft velvet or chenille.
Transform your home and office with design choices that will help you breathe easier and reduce stress. Especially if you’re coping with a demanding schedule, create rooms that accommodate all your senses and help you feel composed. This will bring
Try hanging something unusual on the walls.
Visit La Rouge Home & Design for fresh ideas. We have tons of accent pieces, unique items and design ideas to share with you. 19761 Leitersburg Pike, Hagerstown, MD 21742 Open Friday, noon to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. www.larougehomeanddesign.com 833-La-Rouge larougevintage@gmail.com
Small Animal Hospital
COMPLETE CARE FOR ALL LIFESTAGES OF CATS AND DOGS
• Fear-Free Certified Staff • Surgery&DentalCleanings • Handicap Accessible • A Certified Cat Friendly Practice
Now Offering Wellness Plans 301-733-7579
Curbside service in effect. Telehealth Consultations available for active patients. Call for appointment.
M, TH 8-7 | T, W, F 8-6, SAT. 8-12
26 East Baltimore St., Funkstown, MD www.funkstownvet.com
Now stocking Broil King Grills
