The five senses — sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch, impact how we experience the world. From our perception of space to our enjoyment of food and drink, comfort, pleasure, and, quite literally, everything in between. So it’s little wonder that we’re beginning to place such an emphasis on the sensory impact of our homes — imagining spaces with a mind to the full sensorial spectrum.
Our homes, the sanctuaries to which we retreat when the day is done, are not only a reflection of our uniqueness, but the spaces within which we relax, entertain, play, and seek solace. Climbing into a freshly made bed on a Sunday evening, crisp sheets and the comforting scent of clean washing enveloping you, instantly calms the mind and soothes the soul. While watching dappled light filter through a sheer curtain as you sit sipping a hot cup of tea, plush blanket providing warmth, and a veritable nest of enveloping sofa holding you just so, has a similar effect — akin to a warm hug. We are, by nature, driven by our senses, and clever as we are, have the capacity to transform our homes into sensorial sanctuaries — making our day-to-day that little bit more pleasurable.
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Sensory decoration is a creative concept which seeks to stimulate the senses via cleverly considered design — from architecture to interiors, right down to furniture placement, proximity to art, and considered decor.
When designing a home, one of the most simple (and impactful) ways to influence its visual appeal is through the harnessing of natural light. Be it inviting light in from above via a striking skylight, or cleverly conceiving a stair to allow light to filter into the home creating both bright, light zones, and strikingly shadowed spaces, utilising natural light is a sure-fire way to spark joy. On the flip side, joy can also be found in cavernous retreats, where natural light is minimal, and cosy, plush furnishings, finishings, and textures come together harmoniously to offer a peaceful place for rest and repose. Here, deep colours, rich textures that draw the eye, and plush, textural furnishings combine to calming effect — with clever layering adding to the tranquil ambience. Not only reserved for bedrooms or cosy lounges, bathrooms can just as easily become quiet, relaxing spaces, and perfect zones within which to find sensory stimuli. From the visual appeal of thoughtful design to the soothing sound of a running shower to the heavenly scent of a warm, fragranced bath — bathrooms are a more than perfect spot to find peace.
“We are, by nature, driven by our senses, and clever as we are, have the capacity to transform our homes into sensorial sanctuaries.”
And, it’s said that we eat with our eyes, so transforming your kitchen into a feast for the senses is an obvious option, employing the calm-inducing properties of smooth hardwood, marble, brushed steel, and polished concrete underfoot, or the tactile allure of textured renders, leather seating, and hand-crafted finishes which, when combined with the sound of a sizzling eye fillet and the smell of freshly-baked bread, is a masterclass in sensorial satiation.
But, perhaps the most obvious — and simple, way to ignite the senses and make an impact in the home, is with the clever use of lighting. Be it bathing a space in an enchanting glow with a warmly-hued (and visually striking) lamp, or dialling things up a notch with the inclusion of a glittering disco ball to set a convivial atmosphere, unique lighting is a simple yet impactful way to shift the tone of a space — igniting the senses in the process.
ELDON ARMCHAIR from Design Central
