I was catching up with my friend Bethany the other day, swapping stories about how we’ve been trying to make the most of our homes lately. We both agreed that feeling good at home is about more than just the furniture; it’s about creating a space that genuinely nourishes our physical and mental health. Our conversation kept circling back to two key elements: natural light and good ventilation.
“Honestly,” Bethany said, sipping her tea, “I never realised how much a difference it makes until I started paying attention. Remember my spare room? It felt like a cave!”
She’d transformed it, and I was eager to hear how. Bethany explained that the room had only one small window and felt perpetually dark and stuffy. Her first move was surprisingly simple. “I put up a large mirror opposite the window,” she explained. “It’s amazing how much brighter it made the whole room! It bounces the light around like crazy.”
This is a brilliant, cost-effective strategy. The key is placement. Experiment with angles to find the spot where the mirror catches the most direct light. Larger mirrors work best, but even smaller ones can make a noticeable difference. It’s a low-effort, high-impact change that anyone can implement. Think about the style of the mirror too. An ornate frame can add personality, while a frameless design keeps things modern and clean. For extra reflection, consider mirrored furniture like side tables or decorative trays.
Bethany didn’t stop there. She’d also tackled the ventilation issue. “I bought a small air purifier with a HEPA filter,” she said. “It’s made such a difference to the air quality. It feels fresher, less… stagnant.”
Air purifiers are a great investment, especially if you live in a city or have allergies. Look for models with HEPA filters to effectively remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. Regular cleaning is also essential for good ventilation. Dusting, vacuuming, and opening windows (when possible) all contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Consider incorporating houseplants as well; some varieties, like snake plants and spider plants, are known for their air-purifying properties.
We then moved on to talking about how to utilise light and ventilation to improve our wellbeing. “I’ve been getting into yoga lately,” Bethany shared. “And doing it at home is so much more relaxing than going to a class. I make sure to do it in the room with the best light and airflow.”
Creating a dedicated space for exercise and relaxation, even a small one, can significantly impact your well-being. Natural light is crucial for boosting mood and energy levels, while good ventilation promotes a sense of calm and clarity. Consider using light, airy fabrics for curtains and rugs to enhance the feeling of openness. Add some comfortable cushions and blankets to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere. Think about the colour palette, too. Soft, calming colours like blues, greens, and neutrals are ideal for creating a serene environment.
“You know,” Bethany added, “I’ve been dreaming of adding an orangery to the back of the house. Imagine all that natural light streaming in! It would be the perfect space for yoga, reading, or just relaxing with a cup of tea.”
Orangeries offer a fantastic way to maximise natural light and create a connection with the outdoors. They provide a versatile space that can be used for a variety of activities, from exercising to entertaining. When designing an orangery, consider the orientation of the space to maximise sunlight exposure. Incorporate large windows and glass doors to flood the area with natural light. Think about adding skylights or roof lanterns for even more light. Ensure adequate ventilation by including windows that can be opened to allow for airflow. The investment is worth it for the improvement it will bring to our health, wellbeing and lifestyles.
Our conversation highlighted how simple changes to our homes can make a huge difference in how we feel. Bouncing light with mirrors, improving air quality with purifiers, and creating dedicated spaces for relaxation are all effective strategies. Even small steps, like opening a window or adding a plant, can have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Prioritising natural light and ventilation in our homes is an investment in our overall wellbeing, creating a space that nourishes us from the inside out. It’s about turning our houses into havens, and that’s something we can all strive for.
