With a focus on wellness , clients are requesting space to be outside ( above ), while others want steam showers in their bathrooms ( below ), as seen in these areas designed by Anne Michaelsen Yahn . Above , the fireplace has a tranquil water feature on both sides . The home ’ s stacking sliding doors allow easy indoor-outdoor living .
OPPOSITE PAGE : HUGO LANDA ; THIS PAGE : CHAD MELLON
TRANQUIL TRENDS “ Today , clients are looking for their homes to promote their healthy lifestyle and to provide a respite from their daily lives outside the home ,” Michaelsen Yahn says . “ People are searching for a balance between their personal well-being while respecting and protecting the natural environment . The importance of lifestyle — diet , exercise , sleep , managing stress , etc .— have come to the forefront .”
Brophy says that while effective wellness-focused design must take all five senses into consideration , her firm always starts its projects with mindful planning . Spaces that are designed to flow well — and for how a person actually lives — promote a sense of calm and order .
“ In today ’ s fast-paced lifestyle , wellness-focused design has become a vital necessity for all of us ,” Brophy says . “ Modern life can be overwhelming and stressful , and we all need places that allow us to escape and unwind . Mental health has become a pressing concern , and our homes play a crucial role in supporting our emotional well-being . Our physical health is also profoundly influenced by our surroundings . Wellness-focused design ensures that the air we breathe is cleaner , the lighting is more natural and our furniture promotes better posture , ultimately contributing to improved overall health and productivity .”
Michaelsen Yahn says clients request spa-like elements in their bathrooms , like saunas and steam showers . She has also designed outdoor showers , weather permitting , and says some plumbing lines can even have wellness systems that incorporate water , light and sound .
Brophy agrees that while hot and cold therapy is not a new trend , it seems to be growing in popularity . “ The number of client requests to include steam rooms , infrared saunas and dedicated cold plunges in their homes has risen sharply ,” she says .
Michaelsen Yahn adds that views looking out to private gardens and fountains are on the rise . “ The interior ’ s connection to nature is key . Natural light and views to the outside are very important [ as well as ] natural construction and furnishing materials ; colors that reflect nature ,” she explains . “ Adding a small wellness space can be as easy as choosing a
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