Create a sensory home

DISCOVER THESE EXPERT-APPROVED WAYS TO STYLE YOUR HOME AND SOOTHE YOUR MIND SIMULTANEOUSLY

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The latest home décor trends often focus on the way a space looks, however, a new school of thought for interior design is considering how a space also makes you feel. It's known as sensory design and is an inclusive approach to interiors that looks beyond appearance and aesthetics.

Unlike other decorating trends, sensory design considers how a room impacts all five conscious senses (touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste), and subconscious senses, like temperature, body awareness and emotional processing. The easiest way to integrate this new approach into the home as a starting point is through a sensory nook, carved out of the corner of a bedroom or living room.

However, these principles can apply to the whole home, even the kitchen, to create a space that you can decompress and relax into. Everybody has different needs, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach. explains Dr Joanna Grace, sensory engagement specialist and founder of The Sensory Projects.

Jenny Okolo, occupational therapist and founder of SASA, agrees. she says. Personal connection makes sensory experiences more authentic and supportive of emotional wellbeing.

However, if you're looking to add more sensory elements into your home, here are the features to consider when you start the process.

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