DESIGN
Happiness
Haven
Transforming a home into a positive space will enhance mental health
E
By Kamala Kirk
nvironment plays an important role in contributing to mental and physical health, and a home can be designed to have a positive impact on your life. Being happy is essential to well-being, and with many of us working remotely and spending more time at home these days, it’s crucial that one’s surroundings reflect the things that bring them joy. “Updating your space is a simple way to living a happy life and having a better mental state,” says interior designer Amy Peltier of Amy Peltier Interior Design & Home in San Marino. “Your home is the place you come back to wind down after a crazy day; it’s your ultimate sanctuary.”
Meditative murals A mural can do a lot for a space and can be incorporated just about anywhere, including ceilings. Interior designer Allison Knizek of Los Angeles-based Allison Knizek Design shares that some of her favorite places to add murals include dining rooms, bathroom walls and accent bedroom walls. “A mural can take you on a mental vacation,” Knizek says. “Washing a wall with a scene from a tropical destination is the best way to take your mind to faraway lands. Murals are attention drawing and stare-worthy. I
Erika Bierman Photography/Submitted
Designer Allison Knizek says adding a tropical, botanical, or flora and faunathemed mural to a space helps create a relaxing ambiance that instantly transport the viewer on a mental vacation.
Mood enhancement According to Peltier, one way to transform your home into a happy space is to switch out your pillows with vivid colors and happy patterns — anything that is bright, fresh and cheerful. “Adding color is an instant mood booster and helps set the tone of your space,” Peltier says. “And playing around with your accessories and creating symmetry in the room will overall help the room feel more balanced.” Peltier also suggests swapping out all the photos in your picture frames with updated pictures. Examples include photos taken on family trips and other life moments with special meaning. “This creates a positive effect and overall happiness reflecting on your joyful memories,” Peltier says. Smell also plays a big part in feeling the vibe of the space, which Peltier says can be done by using fresh flowers, plants, candles or even diffusers — anything to give a sensory experience. “It enhances your mood but also promotes a feeling of calmness and reduces stress,” Peltier says.
28 | ARROYO | 07.22
26-Design Story.indd 28
7/1/22 4:37 PM
