In today’s fast-paced world, our homes have taken on multiple roles, serving not just as our living spaces but also as places for work and play. The recent pandemic has accelerated the transformation of various rooms in our homes to accommodate wellness, leading to the rise of the much-coveted “wellness room”.
The Evolution of Wellness Spaces
Homes that once comprised distinct areas for specific functions are now being reimagined to include wellness rooms — spaces dedicated to self-care, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Designer Gonzalo Bueno from Dallas-based Ten Plus Three notes, Small sophisticated home gyms, music rooms, meditation rooms, and Zen gardens are some of the wellness spaces we’ve designed recently. Spaces for wellness, retreat, and recharging are all really popular right now.
Bueno’s team recently executed an impressive renovation in Texas, featuring a stunning outdoor Zen garden paired with an indoor meditation room.
Integrating Technology and Nature
Wellness rooms have evolved to incorporate both holistic practices and advanced technologies. For instance, soundbathing, an experience of immersing oneself in calming sounds, is now available through various home setups. One can create a simple soundbathing studio using cozy pillows, essential oils, and recorded sounds such as chimes or gongs.
Modern saunas, too, have adapted. While traditional steam saunas remain popular, infrared saunas offer easier installation and can accommodate one to three users. There are even high-end models that integrate Bluetooth music, enhancing the sensory experience.
A Personal Retreat
Designers like Jack Ovadia from New York emphasize the importance of privacy in wellness spaces. Ovadia states, Having a private space is essential. A wellness room should be a space where the outside world dissolves; no background noise, no movement beyond your own.
This sentiment reflects the growing need for personal retreats within our homes.
Embracing Creativity in Wellness
Wellness rooms can vary significantly based on personal interests. Bueno mentions the increasing demand for music rooms, as music therapy has been found to enhance overall well-being. Designing spaces that align with personal passions for art or yoga not only enriches the individual experience but also brings home an interactive element.
Materials That Enhance Well-Being
When designing a wellness room, selecting the right materials can significantly impact the space’s vibe. Ovadia suggests using warm woods, neutral tones, and organic textures to cultivate a sense of calm. Lighting can transform the atmosphere — warm hues can create a soothing ambiance, while bright accents can energize the space.
Community Wellness Spaces
For those who lack ample space in their homes, local wellness centers and social spas are emerging as community hubs for relaxation and rejuvenation. Ovadia describes these facilities as the new nightclub, with self-care evolving into a shared experience rather than just a side routine.
Overall, the concept of wellness rooms is indicative of a broader cultural shift towards prioritizing health, mental well-being, and personal retreat within our homes. As more individuals embrace these spaces, the home becomes a sanctuary dedicated to healing, creativity, and self-exploration.
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