Design Notes
Did you know that the atmosphere in your home has a direct tie to your health and well-being? The home creates an atmosphere, but if your kitchen layout drives you crazy, hindering you from getting the meal done, or your office is so dysfunctional you can’t be productive, your wellness will be thrown off. All of the elements in your home play a part in your health, and a good design can help you feel better.
At Greenbrook Design, we specialize in taking the dysfunctional to the functional level. Your home is meant to be a place of rest, where you can look forward to coming home and just unwinding. Today, we want to share a few of our best tips that will help you receive the wellness you and your family need.
Purposeful Design
Each room in the home has a function, a reason why it is there, but it must be brought out through the design and specified to your family. If you don’t design the room for yourself, it can result in frustration as you attempt to do your normal routines but are hindered by the lack of function in the space. This leads to a negative attitude and a fear of even entering the dysfunctional area. It is always best to take the time to sit down and mentally go through what you need to accomplish in each area of the home before meeting with your designer. Here are a few things to consider:
- How many people? If there is more than one person in an area, certain things need to be considered, such as sufficient space for movement. Irritation from constantly bumping into the other person creates a bad atmosphere and mood.
- What time of day? Will you use this space predominantly at night or during the day? Rather, during the day or night, you may need to have some additional thought given to lighting as well as window treatments.
- Is this a multifunctional space? Does your kitchen also double as the kids’ homework station? Consider including a large island where they can spread out without getting in the way of meal prep.
Planning is key to the design, but you need to know what is important first. Time spent going through your needs is never a waste.
Helpful Elements
Certain design elements can help create a relaxing atmosphere in the home, and by including them, you can create a space to unwind and look forward to coming home. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Natural light: Light influences our moods, and natural light is a must in many areas of the home, including the main living areas such as the kitchen and family room.
- Fitness: Exercise is more than just staying fit; it also allows us to relieve stress from a weary day at the office. Consider including an area with some fitness equipment.
- Comfort: We all need cozy areas in the home that have some of our favorite things, such as a reading nook, a place to watch our favorite sports game, or even a little area where we can put our feet up and rest.
We all need a little help to get back to our center, to clear our minds, and to leave the day’s business behind. This is an important part of creating the perfect home environment for the whole family. Read a few more things that are helpful to include in your home design from the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
Outdoor Spaces
Fresh air is sometimes just what we need to escape from the day’s events. Having an outdoor space gives your family a comfortable, refreshing place to gather and spend time doing something fun together.
- Outdoor kitchens are perfect for changing up the routine by having dinner outside.
- Having a back deck means you can sit around a table and talk about what everyone did, or maybe play a game or two.
- A play area allows the kids to burn some energy out in the fresh air, which means they will probably go to bed early.
Talk to your designer about adding an outdoor area so you and your family can have places both inside and outside to go and relax. We can also be your source for outdoor lighting and furniture. See outdoor spaces that the whole family enjoyed.
Walker WoodworkingThe foundation of a timeless kitchen lies in the cabinetry. Opt for traditional styles like Shaker or raised-panel cabinets, which have proven their longevity throughout the decades. While these styles may seem simple, their clean lines and understated elegance ensure they will never look dated.
Greenbrook DesignYour design choices are essential in the living room, as it can be one of the first impressions your guests receive when visiting your home. We have a few tips for space planning and more.
Greenbrook DesignWith creativity and strategic planning, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional oasis without emptying your wallet.
Walker WoodworkingFinding time to unwind and relax at a spa can be a challenge. However, spa-inspired showers can bring the luxury and tranquility of a spa into your home. This type of shower combines the functionality of a traditional bathroom with a spa’s luxurious features and serene ambiance.
Cabinet design has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting each decade’s changing trends, lifestyles, and design preferences. From the ornate styles of the early 20th century to the sleek and minimalist designs of today, cabinets have played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetics of our homes. Let’s journey through time and explore the fascinating evolution of cabinet designs.
Walker Woodworking 
Metropolitan Woodworks Inc