In a world that seems to be moving faster by the day, many of us feel drawn to a more healthy, balanced and sustainable way of life. And because we humans are so greatly influenced by our environment, if we really want to make lasting changes that enhance our wellbeing on a daily basis, it makes sense to start by making changes to our living spaces.
This idea that we can create environments that naturally support our wellness on all levels - physical, emotional and spiritual - is the premise of holistic design. And within the field of interior design, there are many ways this idea can be put into practice.
For us, holistic design means looking at a home as a part of a bigger whole, and addressing all of the seen and unseen elements that influence the health and harmony of a space. This approach, that we have come to call the True Home Process, arises as a natural result of the years of training in meditation, healing arts and energy work that we collectively share.
But what do these spiritual and healing practices have to do with design? In essence, they are all practices of attention and care. And as one of our holistic design heroes, Ilse Crawford says, "Luxury is about care and attention. That's what distinguishes one space from another. Things can look similar, but they don't feel the same."
For us, this means that design is about listening deeply. Not just listening to our clients - although of course that is key. It is about listening to the land and environment around a home. Listening to the history and the longing of objects and places. Listening to the subtle energies that so greatly impact the way spaces make us feel.
All of these voices, inner and outer, new and old, quiet and loud, must be heard and acknowledged, with attention and care, in order for spaces to be brought into balance and harmony, and for a house to truly feel like home.
Because this work is based on listening, we find that the true potential of holistic design is continually being revealed in collaboration with each unique client, space, and piece of land, and we are always learning in the process.
One thing we have learned so far is that a home is not a place, but a practice. And when a home is designed and stewarded with attention and care, it has the power to shift our state of mind, restore our sense of wellbeing, and deepen our relationships with ourselves, others and the natural world of which we are a part. What could be more healing and empowering than that?
Here’s to the collaborative future of holistic design!
Joe + Matthew
