New age architects and interior designers are now focusing on adding design that promotes health and

Aesthetics and function when designing spaces are a matter of course.

New-age architects and interior designers are now focusing on adding design that promotes health and well-being. Therapy interiors consider colors, designs, and layers that alleviate anxiety, stress, illness, confusion, forgetfulness, work and relationship challenges, and more.

“Therapy Interiors basically means designing a personalized space to optimize energy in a way that it rejuvenates and relaxes us,” says Ashwini Shwetha Ketharaj, Founder and Principal Architect of ASK Space Design Studio, Hyderabad.

Elaborating on this new-age design philosophy, she says, “I recently handed over a project to Mumbai. I worked on the interiors of a residence for a family returning from China with great traditional values.

So I designed a space for them that reflects Indian traditions combined with contemporary design with a blend of Chinese influence. I maintained a careful balance in organizing the space with objects and furniture. Natural light and ventilation with breathable furniture and decor are the key elements,” says Ketharaj.

Sufficient amount of greens have been introduced to keep the mood calm. Soft background music and a scent were introduced to the space making it a complete experience. This kind of rejuvenating space brings a significant change in their way of life.

Interior designer Rishika Bhashyakarla of Studio D+B in Hyderabad says that a few years ago, if the client wanted a pink bedroom, he would design it. But now the focus is on bringing additional physical and mental health benefits through decoration. “Today I tell my client that it might be a better idea to have a pink bedroom with a soothing and serene white corner.

Alternatively, a white room with a pink corner so that the therapeutic vibe inherent in the design and color is incorporated into their homes. A full pink bedroom sounds fun, but I wouldn’t recommend it for health reasons.” Since we go through tensions in the office when it comes to deadlines and goals at home, one cannot ignore interior design which can fight stress. Therapy Interiors is here to stay,” she adds.

Rajini Kulkarni, a Bengaluru-based consultant at Chaitra Home, says clients have asked her for a calming element in the design. She says, “Environmental psychology is crucial when planning spaces. Our consultancy firm is currently working on the design of a Mind Clinic chain with offices in Sultanpalya and JP Nagara, Bengaluru. In a few years everyone will be asking for interiors that heal.

THERAPEUTIC Interiors
✥ Use cotton and linen curtains instead of polyester.
✥ A white piece with a splash of color in one corner instead of those bursting with purple, brown or green, helps calm frayed nerves after a hard day’s work.
✥ Potted plants, fountains and wooden Chinese chimes help to feel lonely.
✥ Greenery and natural light beat depression.
Use mirrors, patio doors and vertical gardens if you don’t have room. —By Rishika Bhashyakarla and Ashwini Shwetha Ketharaj