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AUGUST 2 , 2024 COASTALREALESTATEGUIDE . COM

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CHAD MELLON
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 special corner with good natural light and adding a rug of natural fibers , some trees and / or plants and a few objects that are meditative for you .”
Indeed , “ biophilic design is all the rage right now ,” Brophy says . “ It ’ s all about bringing the beauty of nature indoors by incorporating plants , natural materials like wood and stone , and maximizing natural light . It ’ s about fostering a strong connection with nature to promote a sense of tranquility and serenity .”
Michaelsen Yahn says her firm also gets requests for design of yoga and meditation rooms or spaces within other rooms for these practices . Brophy agrees , noting the pandemic shifted our focus on health , carving out a spot for fitness and wellness is now a must-have element . “ People are transforming their homes to include dedicated workout areas , meditation spaces and yoga studios ,” she says . “ Prioritizing fitness and well-being has never been more essential .”
PHOTOS BY RYAN GARVIN
With a focus on wellness , clients are requesting space to be outside , while others want steam showers in their bathrooms , as seen in these areas designed by Anne Michaelsen Yahn . The fireplace has a tranquil water feature on both sides ; other water features include an outdoor shower and one that doubles as a whirlpool spa and meditation fountain .
EMBRACE THE CALM To achieve a Zen-like atmosphere in the home , Brophy recommends incorporating soothing colors such as soft blues and greens as well as light earth tones in gray , brown and tan . “ To strengthen the impact of biophilic design principles in your home , you might draw inspiration from the surrounding natural environment when developing the color palette for your project ,” Brophy says .
She also suggests installing good lighting that is layered — including ample natural light during the day . Combined with calm colors , the right lighting can help to create a space that truly reflects yourself and promotes functionality .
“ Embrace natural lighting by incorporating expansive windows ,
dramatic skylights and elegant glass doors . Picture this : The sunlight cascading in , giving your space a warm , uplifting glow that connects you with the beauty of the outdoors ,” she says .
Michaelsen Yahn says lighting systems can emulate the body ’ s circadian rhythm , and humancentric lighting systems recognize that , as humans , we are affected by the patterns of the sun . The hue of the interior lighting can change to emulate that of the sun , bringing nature inside and helping us stay in sync and happy .
“ Integrate biophilic design practices by sprinkling lush greenery throughout the home ,” Brophy adds . “ Incorporate organic materials , textures and colors to create a space
that exudes a soothing aura , creating a harmonious sanctuary for your soul to thrive .”
Air quality is also key in wellness design . “ Both the airflow obtainable by opening windows and doors and the quality of conditioned air is considered ,” Michaelsen Yahn says . “ Good HVAC —[ heating , ventilation and air-conditioning ]— systems have filters to clean the air that circulates throughout the home . Additional ventilation systems can be added and even some kitchen hoods are being designed to provide filtration to the entire room — not just for cooking . Refrigerators are also being built with better purification systems .”
If you can incorporate these into the design of your home during the initial architecture phase , optimum
results can be achieved as the lighting , heating , air-conditioning and ventilation systems can be planned for . “ Appropriate windows and doors to let nature in while providing protection from sun and cold and noise can [ also ] be specified ,” Michaelsen Yahn says . However , even a remodel or refresh of a home or partial space can add some of these elements to increase the wellness factor .
“ Overall , wellness-focused design takes a holistic approach to health . It ’ s not just about the physical or mental aspects ; it ’ s about nurturing the entire person ,” Brophy says . “ When you ’ re surrounded by spaces that prioritize your well-being , it empowers you to prioritize yourself , too .”