Removed cramped fiberglass shower and built this open shower. We used a shower curtain because owner was having physical health issues as well as adding grab bars.

Example of a transitional home office design in Chicago

This week, the Washington Post reported that studies prove: “spending time outdoors is linked to a “serious boost in well-being, the kind that lasts a lifetime.” Not only that, adds the Post, those who weekly spend two to three hours in natural settings are not only more likely to be happy with their lives, but the benefits to physical health were even greater — with 60 percent of such outdoor enthusiasts more likely to be in good health than their “cooped in counterparts.”

Designing a Health-Focused Home Living Space Designing a health-focused home living space is more than just arranging furniture and choosing colors; it's about creating an environment that promotes physical well-being, mental clarity, and overall wellness. As we spend more time at home, especially in the wake of recent global shifts towards remote work and lifestyle changes, the importance of our living spaces in supporting our health has never been greater. Here are some key considerations when designing a health-oriented home. Natural Light and Air Quality Natural light plays a crucial role in our health, affecting everything from our sleep patterns to our mood. When designing your home, prioritize spaces that allow for ample sunlight. Large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors can help maximize natural light. In rooms where natural light is limited, consider using full-spectrum lighting that mimics daylight to support your circadian rhythms. Air quality is another critical factor in a health-focused home. Indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air due to various factors like off-gassing from furniture, household cleaners, and poor ventilation. Incorporating plants that are known to purify air, such as spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies, can help improve indoor air quality. Additionally, ensure your home is well-ventilated by using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and consider investing in air purifiers, especially if you live in an area with high pollution levels. Ergonomic Furniture and Movement Spaces The furniture you choose and how you arrange it can significantly impact your physical health. Ergonomic furniture, especially in workspaces, can help prevent strain and injury. Adjustable desks, supportive chairs, and monitor stands can contribute to better posture and reduced risk of musculoskeletal issues. Incorporating spaces that encourage movement is also important. For example, a small home gym or a yoga corner can serve as a dedicated area for physical activity. Even in smaller spaces, you can create movement opportunities by ensuring there’s enough room to stretch or do simple exercises. Open floor plans or multipurpose spaces that can be easily reconfigured for different activities can help integrate movement into daily life. Mindful and Minimalist Design A clutter-free environment is conducive to mental clarity and relaxation. Mindful and minimalist design principles focus on creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing without being overwhelming. Start by decluttering and organizing your belongings, keeping only what you need and what brings you joy. Choose furniture and decor that are simple, natural, and calming. Materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers not only add a touch of nature to your home but also tend to have fewer chemicals than synthetic materials. Neutral color palettes with accents of soothing colors like blues and greens can help create a tranquil atmosphere. Sleep and Restful Areas A significant part of health-focused design is creating spaces that promote restful sleep. Your bedroom should be a sanctuary that encourages relaxation. Invest in a good-quality mattress and pillows that support your body. Blackout curtains, soundproofing, and maintaining a cool room temperature can also contribute to better sleep quality. In addition to the bedroom, consider creating other restful areas in your home where you can unwind, meditate, or practice mindfulness. A cozy reading nook, a meditation space, or even a comfortable chair by a window can serve as your personal retreat. Incorporating Nature and Green Spaces Finally, integrating elements of nature into your living space can have a profound impact on your health. Biophilic design, which connects indoor environments with nature, has been shown to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. This can be as simple as adding more houseplants, incorporating natural materials, or even installing a small indoor water feature. If you have outdoor space, create a garden or a patio where you can relax and enjoy fresh air. Even a small balcony can be transformed into a green oasis with the right plants and seating. By thoughtfully designing your living space with health in mind, you create an environment that not only looks beautiful but also supports your physical and mental well-being.

This project emerged from a personal and urgent need: the owner, a physician treating immuno-compromised cancer patients during theCOVID-19 pandemic, required a safe environment that balanced strict health protocols with meaningful family connection. Isolation was not a luxury—it was essential. The purchase of a neighboring lot provided a rare chance to create a unified family compound that could support both physical health and emotional wellbeing. The goal was to design a flexible, light-filled space supporting guest rooms, work areas, a media zone, and an indoor basketball court—while maintaining privacy and promoting wellness. Skylights above the stair create a poetic sun dial marking the time.

Patient room
Example of a trendy home design design in New York

This project won in the 2013 Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh Housing Excellence Award for Best Urban Renewal Renovation Project. The glass bowl was made in the glass studio owned by the owner which is adjacent to the residence. The mirror is a repurposed window. The door is repurposed from a boarding house. George Mendel

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!

Basement family room offers multiple areas for family entertainment and special interests. The exercise equipment is located in the far corner of the finished space. Health conscious adults can conveniently pursue strength training and physical fitness in the comfort of their own home.

Example of a minimalist home office design in New York

This was a steam shower which we did recently. Steam showers offer many physical and mental health benefits and that is why these fixtures are seen in fitness clubs, gymnasiums, and healing centers. Steam holds remarkable healing qualities that were originally discovered in Ancient Rome. Since then, steam showers have been used to heal and treat many ailments. ✅ If you need a steam shower, we are the right people to contact. To request a free in-home estimate, click https://jihomedesign.com/ or call us at (844) 713-3744 . . . #interiorinspiration #howyouhome #interiordecorator #modernhomedecor #supportlocalbusiness #interiordesign #homedecor #architecture #furniture #design #luxury #homesweethome #livingroom #kitchendesign #realestate

This was a steam shower which we did recently. Steam showers offer many physical and mental health benefits and that is why these fixtures are seen in fitness clubs, gymnasiums, and healing centers. Steam holds remarkable healing qualities that were originally discovered in Ancient Rome. Since then, steam showers have been used to heal and treat many ailments. ✅ If you need a steam shower, we are the right people to contact. To request a free in-home estimate, click https://jihomedesign.com/ or call us at (844) 713-3744 . . . #interiorinspiration #howyouhome #interiordecorator #modernhomedecor #supportlocalbusiness #interiordesign #homedecor #architecture #furniture #design #luxury #homesweethome #livingroom #kitchendesign #realestate

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!

This modern home gym combines the warmth of rich wooden finishes with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, offering an inviting and efficient workout space. Large floor-to-ceiling windows not only flood the room with natural light but also provide serene views of lush greenery, creating an atmosphere that promotes both physical vigor and mental relaxation. The thoughtful layout and compact storage solutions ensure that every piece of equipment has its place, making the space both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

A basement tailor-made for entertaining, working out, unwinding, wellness and the whole family. These homeowners take the mantra “exercise is a great form of self-care” to heart. A remodel brought them additional space for maintaining and building their exercise and physical health routines. While their 1952 St. Louis Park home is traditional, they decided to have fun with the aesthetics in the multi-function space in the basement. This newly remodeled space is retro-modern, and funky! The colors, designs, and layout inspire a positive attitude and an upbeat mood. Included in the space are areas for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. They created a dedicated space for, not only enjoying the company of others, but where every family member can take care of themselves!