A Simple Secret From a Portland Interior Designer: How Paint, Pictures, and Pillows Foster Flourishing
“Hi-YA!” My kids exclaimed as they karate chopped the pillows in the living room. They weren’t fighting, playing, or even pretending.
They were preparing.
You may not know this, I sure didn’t, but pillows can be used for more than just cushions. Pillows, paint colors, pictures – and more – can work together to create an environmental impact. The spaces you live in and walk through have a profound impact on you.
We all feel this, even if we can’t put our finger on it.
Neuroaesthetics and how Interior Design Impacts Your Life
Have you ever walked in a room and immediately felt…something? Maybe relaxed or inspired? Perhaps stressed or drained?
The emerging field of Neuroaesthetics explains why. In their book, Your Brain on Art, Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross explain:
“The state of our human-built environment—by this we mean the places that aren’t purely natural and have been designed by us—has an impact on both individuals and communities over time. This can be measured through improved outcomes in learning, health, and relationships. Neuroscience and biology continue to confirm…the positive outcomes of enriched spaces, and also how impoverished environments have a slow, corrosive effect on health and well-being.”
Created by a Loving God for Holistic Flourishing
I love it when the sciences articulate what God lays out in the Bible. In the beginning, God created everything, and it was good.
And Jesus said He’s running a construction project in heaven, right now, to prepare a place for us! You better believe that place is going to completely invigorate every aspect of our humanity!
God has endowed people with the desire and ability to create beautiful, functional, inspiring, and comforting spaces.
My wife, Kristy (Portland’s best interior designer, IMO!!) can’t help herself from creating healing spaces wherever she goes. It’s just part of how God’s love for people overflows through her.
From the time she was a little girl, Kristy had to create spaces that nurtured, invited, and embraced people. She’s used the beautiful gift to elevate the lives of countless people across the country.
Kristy has enhanced spaces for schools, businesses, churches, non-profits, and many, many homes. I could not be more proud of her.
It’s my great honor to invite you to see how she was recently highlighted by Voyage Minnesota. She’s the best in the biz! If you’re in need of some interior design assistance, just reach out!
I’m so glad so many are getting the opportunity to know her and be blessed by her interior design expertise!
