World Heart Day: Heart-Healthy Habits for Designers

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As an interior designer, you’re no stranger to creating spaces that nurture well-being and promote a sense of harmony for your clients. But today, let's shift the focus to your own health! After all, our daily routines and habits play a huge role in our overall wellness, especially when it comes to heart health.

With World Heart Day approaching on September 29, it's the perfect time to consider how your daily work as a designer might be impacting your heart—and what you can do to keep it beating strong. According to the CDC, every 40 seconds, someone in the US has a heart attack. Those numbers are a bit startling, but here's the good news: by making a few adjustments, you can take proactive steps to protect your heart. So, read on for some doable tips that will fit right into your busy life!

1. Move More, Sit Less

We know how easy it is to get lost in the details of a project, spending hours hunched over fabric samples or CAD drawings. But prolonged sitting can be a strain on your heart. Combat this by setting a timer on your phone to remind yourself to stand up and move every hour–no hitting snooze! Take a quick walk around the office, stretch, or even do a few simple exercises like lunges or squats.

2. Make Your Workspace Work for Your Wellness

Just as you create spaces that support your clients’ lifestyles, consider how your own workspace can support your health. Ergonomic furniture is a must, but don’t stop there. Incorporate elements like a standing desk or even a treadmill desk if you’re feeling adventurous. Position your desk near a window to maximize natural light, which not only enhances your mood but also encourages you to take micro-breaks to soak in some vitamin D—essential for cardiovascular health.

3. Watch What You Sip and Snack On

Let’s face it: when deadlines loom, it’s easy to reach for another cup of coffee or a sugary snack to keep you going. But too much caffeine and sugar can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, putting extra strain on your heart. Instead, stock your workspace with nutritious snacks like nuts, fresh fruits, or even dark chocolate (in moderation, of course). And when it comes to beverages, try swapping out one of those coffee cups for herbal tea or water infused with lemon or cucumber.

4. Practice Stress Management

Designing under pressure is almost a given in this industry. Tight deadlines, demanding clients, and the pursuit of perfection can all contribute to stress, which is a known risk factor for heart disease. Incorporate stress-relief techniques into your daily routine, like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or even a quick walk in the fresh air. Consider taking short breaks to step away from your work and clear your mind, whether that means doing a five-minute meditation or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea. These small moments of calm can have a big impact on your cardiovascular health.

5. Prioritize Sleep

It’s not uncommon for designers to burn the midnight oil, especially when you’re working against the clock. However, getting enough quality sleep is crucial for heart health. Poor sleep patterns can lead to high blood pressure and other heart-related issues. Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down, and try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule. This might mean setting a non-negotiable "design cutoff time" at night where you step away from work, relax, and prepare for a good night's sleep.

6. Stay Connected

Interior design can sometimes be a solitary profession, especially if you’re freelancing or working from home. Isolation can lead to stress and loneliness, which aren’t good for your heart. Make time to connect with peers, whether through networking events, online communities, or simply catching up with a colleague over coffee. Social interaction is not only great for your mental health but also helps keep your heart healthy by reducing stress and increasing feelings of well-being.

Remember, your well-being is not just a nice-to-have—it's an essential part of your daily routine. Make a commitment to weave these small, heart-healthy habits into your workday, and before you know it, they’ll become second-nature to you. Your health is worth the investment!

xx, Danae

6 Tips for Designing Healthy and Happy Workspaces

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Did you know that the average office worker spends 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime? As an interior designer, you have the power to create workspaces that not only look amazing but also promote the health and comfort of those who use them. A good work environment is not just a nice-to-have, but a critical element in improving employee productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. While ergonomic furniture and natural lighting are great starting points, there are several often overlooked design tips that can make all the difference. Let's explore some modern, creative, and realistic tips for designing healthy and happy workspaces.

1. Set up varied spaces.

To create a more functional and productive workspace, it's important to consider the different needs of employees throughout the day. Sitting at the same desk all day can hinder creativity and focus, so it's a good idea to offer a variety of workspace options and rest areas, including personal and hot desks, meeting rooms, quiet pods, lounges, and social areas. To make the most of limited space, modular furniture can be a wonderful solution. This way, employees can have the freedom to move around and choose the best environment for their current task.

2. Mix and match.

A workspace doesn't have to be sterile or boring. A good way to break up the monotony is by mixing and matching textures and fabrics to create a more inviting atmosphere. Consider adding soft furnishings like cushions or rugs to counterbalance the harshness of hard surfaces commonly found in office spaces. In addition to adding texture, incorporating a range of finishes and colors throughout the space can also breathe new life into an office. You can use different colors and finishes to create distinct zones. By adding variation and depth to the design, you can create a more dynamic and inspiring environment.

3. Bring in the greenery.

Adding plants to an office space is a trend that's here to stay. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space, but it also aligns with the biophilic design trend that mimics nature, boosting employees' mood and providing a refreshing burst of oxygen. A green wall or a few potted plants can make a world of difference. Just make sure to opt for real or high-quality faux plants, as cheap plastic ones may backfire on morale.

4. Make a splash.

Adding a water feature to an office space can do wonders for everyone's well-being. Not only does it connect us with nature and promote healthy hydration habits, but it can also bring back that good old water cooler culture. So, why not consider incorporating a stylish water fountain that not only serves as a drinking fountain but also adds a touch of decor to your office?

5. Promote movement.

Sitting for extended periods can take a toll on employee health. Standing desks or adjustable workstations are a solid start, but there are also many other creative ways to encourage movement. You could provide access to simple fitness equipment or yoga mats, which can benefit both physical and mental well-being. Additionally, incorporating fun elements like pull-up bars or even a ping pong table in the common areas can provide opportunities for employees to get their blood pumping and bond with coworkers, which boosts productivity and overall job satisfaction.

6. Integrate Interactive Elements.

A workplace design that caters to the organization's values and culture enhances a sense of community and belonging among the employees. Consider incorporating interactive elements that reflect the company culture, such as a designated wall for employee photos or a cork or marker board for sharing achievements, classifieds, or positive feedback. This encourages personal connections and adds to the overall atmosphere.

As experts in creating beautiful spaces that offer uplifting experiences, you can thrill your clients and their staff by crafting an office space that prioritizes the health and happiness of its inhabitants, ultimately contributing to their success–and yours!

xx, Danae