Designing Calm: Spaces That Prioritize Wellness and Productivity
Start the year on a calm note! This month, we’re sharing tips to help you design spaces that promote relaxation, wellness, and productivity—whether at home or in the office. From fostering comfort and focus to setting boundaries that protect your time, these insights are perfect for kicking off the year with intention.
Embrace the Minimalist Mindset
When it comes to creating calm, less is often more. Clutter overwhelms the senses and makes it harder to focus, leading to stress and decision fatigue.
PROJECT: SILK + SLATE / PHOTOGRAPHY: AGNES ART & PHOTO
Tips for Minimizing Clutter:
Start with a clean slate: Donate or discard items that no longer serve a purpose.
Opt for closed storage solutions to keep everyday items out of sight.
Use decorative baskets, shelves, or built-ins to organize without sacrificing style.
Create a “zero clutter” zone—an area that remains intentionally clear and serene.
In commercial spaces, a minimalist approach can boost employee focus and streamline workflow. Clean, open layouts with intentional furnishings ensure spaces feel productive yet inviting.
Prioritize Natural Light for Wellness
Natural light is one of the most impactful design elements for both wellness and productivity. Exposure to sunlight regulates your circadian rhythm, boosts mood, and enhances focus—all while making your space feel open and airy.
PROJECT: SONORAN LUXE / PHOTOGRAPHY: ROEHNER + RYAN
How to Maximize Natural Light
Use sheer window treatments that allow light to flow while maintaining privacy.
Position workstations near windows to harness daylight during work hours.
Incorporate mirrors to reflect light into darker corners of a room.
Choose light, neutral paint colors to amplify the brightness of natural light.
For spaces without ample sunlight, consider lighting solutions that mimic natural daylight. LED lights with adjustable warmth and brightness can bring the benefits of natural light indoors.
Incorporate Biophilic Design Elements
Biophilic design connects humans to nature through thoughtful integration of natural elements into interior spaces. Studies have shown that biophilic spaces reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote a sense of well-being.
PROJECT: ECLECTIC BUNGALOW / PHOTOGRAPHY: ROEHNER + RYAN
Ways to Add Biophilic Design
Use indoor plants to purify air and bring life into the space.
Opt for natural materials like wood, stone, or bamboo in furniture and decor.
Introduce textures like jute rugs or linen curtains to add organic warmth.
Use calming nature-inspired colors like greens, blues, and neutrals.
Create a focal point with a moss wall or vertical garden in offices or shared spaces.
Adding greenery to workspaces can improve air quality and employee morale, while residential spaces benefit from the calming energy of nature.
Design for Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is non-negotiable when designing for productivity and wellness. Furniture that supports your body and encourages good posture can transform how you work and relax.
PROJECT: HIGHWOOD HAUS / PHOTOGRAPHY: JO PORTIA
Ergonomic Essentials
Invest in an ergonomic chair that supports your spine and reduces tension.
Use height-adjustable desks to alternate between sitting and standing.
Incorporate soft, plush textures in residential spaces for relaxation (e.g., sofas, throws, and pillows).
Opt for rounded furniture edges to create a sense of flow and softness.
In shared or commercial settings, ergonomic seating and breakout zones for relaxation help employees feel valued and focused throughout the day.
Soundscapes and Acoustic Design
Noise can be one of the most distracting elements in a home or workspace. Acoustic design solutions help reduce unwanted sound and create a calm environment.
Solutions for Sound Control
Use area rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture to absorb sound.
Incorporate acoustic panels in offices or rooms with hard surfaces.
Add a white noise machine or calming soundscapes to mask background noise.
In commercial offices, consider soundproof pods or quiet zones for focused work.
By managing acoustics thoughtfully, you can minimize distractions and help people stay present in their work or relaxation.
Curate a Calming Color Palette
Color has a profound effect on mood, energy, and focus. A calming color palette sets the tone for a space that feels restorative and purposeful.
PROJECT: DREAMY DESERT GETAWAY / PHOTOGRAPHY: ROEHNER + RYAN
Color Tips for Calm Spaces
Stick to soft, neutral tones like whites, beiges, and light grays for a serene backdrop.
Incorporate blues and greens, which are proven to reduce stress and promote calm.
Use warm, earthy tones like terracotta and taupe for a sense of grounding.
Limit bold, vibrant colors to small accents for added energy without overwhelm.
For commercial spaces, muted tones paired with natural textures foster professionalism and focus while maintaining a sense of ease.
Set Boundaries with Thoughtful Space Planning
The way spaces are planned can impact how we set boundaries, separate work from rest, and create balance.
PROJECT: EAMES, DREAMS, POOLSIDE IN PALM SPRINGS / PHOTOGRAPHY: JAMES STEWART
Space Planning Ideas
Define zones for work, relaxation, and socializing to prevent overlap.
Use decorative screens or furniture placement to create visual boundaries.
Create cozy nooks for reading, meditating, or quiet time.
In home offices, ensure there’s a clear “end of day” routine to signal work-life balance.
Commercial environments can benefit from intentional zones like focus rooms, collaborative spaces, and breakout areas to meet varying needs throughout the day.
Start Designing with Intention
Wellness and productivity are not just trends; they’re essential to creating spaces that truly support how we live and work. By prioritizing light, comfort, nature, and thoughtful space planning, you can design an environment that feels calm, functional, and inspiring.
Whether you’re reimagining your home or transforming a commercial space, our team at Mackenzie Collier Interiors specializes in creating customized designs that balance wellness and productivity.
Ready to design your calm? Let us help you bring intention to every corner of your space. Contact us today to learn how we can transform your home or workspace into an oasis of calm and creativity.
