February 2025
Awaken the Senses in Holistic Interior Design
A home is not just a physical space, it is a living, breathing energetic field, a series of interconnected spaces shaped by the objects, colours, materials, and of course people within it. So in holistic interior design we look beyond mere aesthetics and function of space; we also consider energy and how it resonates for those who live in it. We aim to create spaces that nurture our well-being now, and in the future, and to do this we look to engage the senses!
The Energy of Sight: Colours and Their Frequencies
Colour is a vibrational force that affects emotions and the atmosphere of a space. For example, soft blues and greens soothe the nervous system, reminding us of the natural world while deep earth tones, reminiscent of the ground, the trees and the mountains, ground and stabilise us, golds and rich purples elevate energy, bringing warmth and wisdom to our lives.
Beyond the colours themselves, the source of the pigments also matters. Natural, hand-mixed paints and organic dyes hold a different frequency than synthetic alternatives. They carry the energy of the earth, the artisans who crafted them, and the intention behind their creation. In sustainable interior design, we prioritise these natural sources, reducing reliance on harmful chemicals while creating spaces that resonate with positive, grounding energy.
The Feel of Energy: Textures That Hold a Story
Everything we touch in our home carries an energetic signature. A piece of furniture carved by hand holds the loving intention of the maker, while mass-produced items often feel soulless, disconnected from the people who use them and therefore offering little beyond function and form.
Choosing textures with meaning, handwoven wool rugs, linen drapes, natural wood surfaces, helps create a space that is energetically alive. Holistic interior design celebrates these materials, as they not only add aesthetic value but also promote a deeper connection to the space. There is nothing quite like running your fingers over smooth stone countertops, stepping onto a natural woven mat, or sinking into a soft cotton throw to deeply engage the senses. At the same time, sustainable interior design encourages the use of ethically sourced, durable materials that are kind to the planet, ensuring a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the energy of the space.
Let There Be Light: Lighting That Shapes the Mood
Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in shaping the energy of a space. It doesn’t just brighten a room; it defines its mood, its character, and its feeling. Soft, warm lighting can cocoon a room and its inhabitants in comfort, while bright, cool light can energise and focus the mind.
When choosing lighting, consider not just the function but the energy the light brings. Candles, for instance, create a flickering, intimate atmosphere, while lamps made from natural materials inspire grounding, earthy energy. Lighting is the subtle thread that ties the emotional atmosphere of a room together. It breathes life into your space by sculpting shadows, accentuating textures, and creating moments of warmth and serenity.
The Scent of Energy: Nature’s Invisible Presence
Scent is one of the most direct ways to augment the energy of a home. Unlike artificial air fresheners, which mask rather than cleanse, natural scents carry a living frequency.
Burning dried herbs such as rosemary or cedar clears stagnant energy, while diffusing natural essential oils like lavender or frankincense nurtures calm. Fresh flowers, citrus peels, and natural beeswax candles all introduce scent in a way that feels organic and uplifting, strengthening and humanising the emotional resonance of a space.
The Soul of a Space: Energy in Objects, Furniture, and Art
Every object in a home tells a story, and the energy behind those objects matters. A mass-produced decoration may look stylish, but lacks the soul of a handmade ceramic vase, a vintage wooden chair, or a painting created with love.
Surrounding yourself with meaningful objects that carry history, craftsmanship, and intention, holistic interior design emphasises the importance of choosing decor that resonates with both beauty and purpose. Antique furniture, heirloom textiles, and hand-thrown pottery radiate warmth, reflecting the care infused into them by their creators. In sustainable interior design, we also prioritise these timeless, durable pieces that offer both aesthetic value and long-term sustainability. 145 years ago William Morris wrote, “have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful,” a quote that still stands true today. Perhaps when we consider beauty to be more than just skin deep, we begin to get closer to a holistic and energetic design blueprint of what makes a house a home.