The latest trend in home design has to do with how a space reflects our heart and our day-by-day. It might be a buzzworthy phrase, but if you haven’t heard of “ritual design” already, you will very soon (well, within this blog post anyway). From what I gather through a lot of meaningful internet research, ritual design is all about finding deep meaning behind interior decorating and truly designing a space to match your rituals and routines.
You know what? I’m into it.
Let’s talk about how designing for your rituals might work. They’re all about the small moments that spark meaning with the person living within the space and (most importantly) the design reflects how they can work effortlessly within the space. For example, if you wake up early for work, you might want spacious windows to let natural light in. If you’re a cook, you might want an outdoor stove. If you enjoy social routines, you might want a wine cellar or a porch that can host game night.
First, let’s define the word ritual. It is defined (via ol’ Merriam-Webster) as an act done in a particular situation and in the same way each time, so that the person has permeated with symbolism and meaning. Rituals have meaning. On the flip side, we have routines: daily practices that don’t necessarily have meaning but they have an importance in motion and how we go about our days (and feel comfort within them). So, it makes so much sense that great home design would reflect both rituals and routine. Because we want our spaces to flow with our lives and give us purpose, awareness and meaning.
Here are some ways you can create a home space that reflects that important R & R (our abbreviated version of rituals and routines):
Rituals
DEFINE HOW YOU REFLECT AND FIND AFFIRMATION - BUILD A SPACE AROUND THAT
If you meditate, build a unique meditation space, like the ones we covered in one of our latest blog posts. Perhaps you reflect by gardening or doing yard work. Maybe you like to read a book on your porch, paired with a light breeze. These spaces are the most important and the ones you should focus on.
YOUR BEDROOM IS A SPACE TO RECHARGE - MAKE SURE IT ALLOWS YOU TO DO JUST THAT!
Leaving technology out of the bedroom and incorporating lighting that is meaningful and soft are some great design elements that can enhance restoration. No floor lamps, light paint colors, and a focal point in the room that offers meaning – are all great options to create a space to recharge.
DESIGN WITH MEANING - SPRINKLE PURPOSEFUL PIECES THROUGHOUT THE HOME
For designers, products are shaped into a certain emotion, value or set of beliefs during a ritual. So, when you consider what these products truly mean to you, they are powerful elements within a space. Whether the product is sustainable, built by a company you trust, or functions as something that can enhance reflection or affirmation – all are elements to consider when creating a home that is designed with meaning.
Routines
COFFEE DRINKING OR MAKING BREAKFAST IS AN IMPORTANT DAILY ROUTINE - YOUR KITCHEN SHOULD REFLECT HOW YOU FUNCTION
If you rush around the kitchen in the morning with kids, sliding pull out drawers and effortless storage space are probably key – and a big center island to interact with the kids while you all get ready. If you like to enjoy your morning slow with espresso, an intricate coffee bar with an espresso machine and mugs might jumpstart your morning with the routine ease you need. All of these elements should be considered within the remodeling ideas and design process.
UNCLUTTERED AND CALM OR COZY AND SELF-REFLECTIVE - YOUR SPACE WILL SPEAK TO YOUR PERSONALITY
This element will be mirrored in the design theme you choose for your home. Whether you like a more modern feel, traditional or bohemian, nautical or urban modern – this should be defined within your routine and how you look for peace and effortless movement within your home. If your job is stressful, you might want a more modern, simplistic, warm and positive vibe. If you are a collector and or like to have family get togethers, traditional or modern farmhouse might be more for you.
HOW DO YOU RELAX AS THE EVENING COMES TO A CLOSE? CREATE A SPACE THAT ALLOWS YOU TO DO SO
The beginning and end of your day are the most important in regards to home design. Because that’s where you’re spending most of that time! Whether it’s by designing something more recreational like a wine cellar or game room, movie theater or lazy reading loft – the space you end your day should enhance that desired routine of winding down and feeling accomplished.
There’s a lot to think about! So, how will you be designing your space to match your daily rituals and routines? Let the Mom’s Design Build team transform those practical design needs into reality!
