Starting an Interior Design Studio: Bringing Natural Elements into Homes & Spaces

After years of obsessing over incorporating healthy elements into my own home, I decided to start my own interior design studio focused on bringing organic & healthy elements into people’s spaces. My goal is simple: to create spaces that connect us to nature, enhance our well-being, and offer a sanctuary from the hectic pace of life.

With a background rooted in design—my father and grandfather were both in the industry—I’ve always believed in the power of a thoughtfully designed space to transform the way we live and feel. In this blog post, I want to share my journey and the principles I’ve adopted in my design studio to create homes that embrace nature and promote a healthy lifestyle.

1. Embracing Natural Materials

From the start, I knew that natural materials would be the foundation of my design philosophy. There’s something about working with raw, organic elements that just feels right—both for the planet and for the people who inhabit the spaces I help create. Quality over quantity!

• Wood: I’ve always been drawn to the warmth and character that wood brings to a room. Whether it’s sustainably sourced hardwood floors or reclaimed wood for a custom dining table, I prioritize natural, untreated wood that adds a sense of grounding and history.

• Stone/Tile: For countertops, fireplaces, and tiling, I always try to use natural materials. It’s timeless, durable, and gives a sense of permanence that I find grounding. Terracotta, concrete, marble, limestone to name a few.

• Natural fibers: When selecting upholstery, rugs, or window treatments, I look for textiles made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, hemp, and linen. They not only add texture and warmth but also breathe better than synthetic materials.

  
  

2. Non-Toxic Paint and Finishes

Early in my design career, I learned how harmful conventional paints and finishes could be. Many products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that release toxins into the air, sometimes for months. Knowing this, I make it a priority to work with non-toxic materials.

• Zero-VOC and low-VOC paints: When designing a space, I use zero-VOC or low-VOC paints. So many brands offer beautiful colors without compromising air quality. It’s a small change that makes a huge difference in creating a healthier home.

• Limewash and Roman plaster: Limewash is a natural, mineral-based paint made from limestone, offering a matte, textured look that adds depth and character to walls. It’s breathable, mold-resistant, and free of harmful chemicals, making it ideal for healthy homes. Roman plaster, or Venetian plaster, is a smooth, polished finish created from lime and marble dust. It gives a rich, velvety texture with a natural sheen, while also being free of VOCs, providing a luxurious yet non-toxic alternative to conventional paints.

• Natural finishes: I also love using natural finishes on wood furniture or flooring. Tung oil, linseed oil, and beeswax not only protect the wood but also give it a rich, natural luster without harmful chemicals.

  
  

3. Lighting That Honors Your Circadian Rhythm

I’ve come to appreciate how much lighting can impact our mood and health. I design with lighting that supports our circadian rhythm, which helps regulate our sleep-wake cycles and overall well-being.

• Maximizing natural light: I make it a point to maximize natural light in every project I take on. Whether it’s designing a space with larger windows, adding a skylight, or placing mirrors strategically to reflect light, nothing can replace the benefits of natural sunlight.

• Circadian lighting: In spaces where natural light is limited, I recommend circadian lighting systems that mimic the natural daylight cycle. These systems adjust light temperature throughout the day, providing cooler light in the morning and softer, warmer tones in the evening to support a restful transition into nighttime.

• Dimmable lighting: I also love incorporating dimmable fixtures to allow for more control over the ambiance. In the evening, soft, dim lighting can help prepare the body for sleep, creating a calming atmosphere.

  
  

4. Improving Indoor Air Quality

Good air quality is essential for a healthy home, but it’s something that often gets overlooked. Early in my career, I became interested in

how the air we breathe inside our homes affects our health, and now it’s a core principle in my designs.

• Houseplants: One of the easiest ways to improve air quality is by incorporating houseplants that purify the air. They naturally filter out toxins and enhance the look of any space.

• Air purification systems: For clients living in cities or areas with poor air quality, I recommend high-efficiency air purifiers.

• Natural ventilation: Whenever possible, I design spaces with great airflow. Cross-ventilation, operable windows, and fresh air intakes are simple ways to reduce dependence on air conditioning and promote natural air circulation.

  
  

5. Filtering The Water

Water quality is another key aspect of health-focused design. Many people don’t think about the contaminants in their tap water, so I always make a point to try to integrate clean water solutions for my clients.

• Under-sink filters: For most homes, a high-quality under-sink water filtration system is a simple, affordable solution that provides clean drinking water directly from the tap.

• Whole-house filtration: Some clients opt for a whole-house water filtration system that ensures clean water from every faucet and shower head enhancing their overall health and lifestyle.

  
  

Why Wellness-Centered Design Matters

At the end of the day, I started this interior design studio because I believe our homes should be more than just aesthetically pleasing—they should nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits. By creating environments that connect us with nature, support our well-being, and promote a healthier lifestyle, I aim to help people live better, more balanced lives.

The response from clients has been amazing, and I’ve found that more and more people are eager to create spaces that reflect their values of wellness and sustainability. If you’re looking to design a home that feels like a true sanctuary, I’d love to help you make that vision a reality!