By Rachel Schemmerling, Timeless Living Designs

This time of year as spring unfolds, nature awakens with vibrant colors, fresh air, and I find I have a renewed sense of energy. The beauty of the outdoors has a profound effect on our well-being, and thoughtfully integrating natural elements into interior spaces can create a soothing, health-supporting environment. I think of spring as the actual start to the new year instead of January. Whatever you’re considering redesigning, nature-inspired materials, colors, and textures always offer a timeless approach to spaces that nourish both body and mind.

The Power of Nature in Interior Design

Bringing the outdoors in isn’t just about adding a few plants (though greenery is always a welcome touch!). It’s about curating an environment rich in natural materials, organic textures, and elements that evoke a sense of calm and rejuvenation. Here’s how:

• Natural Materials: Wood, stone, clay, and rattan bring warmth and authenticity to a space.
• Earthy Color Palettes: Soft greens, warm neutrals, sky blues, and deep terracottas mirror nature’s soothing hues.
• Biophilic Design: Large windows, nature-inspired artwork, and indoor water features foster a deeper connection to the outdoors.
• Textural Layers: Linen drapes, wool rugs, and handcrafted tiles add tactile comfort and depth, creating a sensory experience that enhances relaxation.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are becoming an extension of the home, offering tranquility and a place to reconnect with nature. Thoughtful design choices can enhance the fluidity between indoor and outdoor areas:

• Patio & Deck Furnishings: Comfortable, stylish outdoor seating transforms patios into personal retreats.
• Tile Selections: Through our many tile showroom partnerships, we offer stunning, durable tiles and materials perfect for indoor-outdoor transitions, ensuring a cohesive and elegant aesthetic.
• Landscaping Integration: By collaborating with trusted landscaping professionals, we design outdoor spaces that enhance both residential exteriors and business storefronts.

Create the Lifestyle You Dream Of

Your home or business should be a reflection of what brings you peace, inspiration, and joy. At Timeless Living Designs, we specialize in crafting spaces that align with your lifestyle, embracing the beauty of nature and the principles of timeless, mindful living. Whether you’re seeking to transform your interiors, curate a serene outdoor retreat, or seamlessly blend both, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.

Let’s create a space that nurtures your well-being and invites nature’s harmony into your everyday life. Reach out to explore how we can craft a sanctuary tailored just for you.

By Rachel Schemmerling- Timeless Living Designs

Twelve years ago, on January 27, 2013, I sat in a hospital bed surrounded by a group of Yale medical students. The Resident Physician looked at me and delivered the life-changing diagnosis: I had MS, or Multiple Sclerosis. For five days, they worked tirelessly to figure out why my entire body was numb and tingling, why my chest felt like it was being squeezed, and why I was so fatigued that I could barely finish a sentence without feeling the pull of sleep. When the moment came for my reaction, I smiled and asked, “Okay, so what do we do about it? How do we fix it?” They smiled meekly, unable to offer a definitive solution.

That moment marked the start of a journey I never asked to be on. But it was also the wake-up call I needed—a signal that my life needed an overhaul. I had to stop denying what I truly wanted and start honoring what mattered most to me.

Finding Purpose in Creativity

Four months later, my dear friend pulled me from despair, and together we started a small business. We spent our days repurposing furniture, building a website, and frequenting flea markets to sell our wares. It was hard work, and I often fought through the fatigue and pain, but it kept me distracted from the darker thoughts MS brought with it. We felt like regular Martha Stewarts, finding joy and purpose in our creativity.

During this time, I learned a powerful lesson: your environment has so much to do with your health and happiness. I began to understand how deeply connected our physical spaces are to our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Honoring My Health and Family Dreams

While I found joy in our creative pursuits, I also realized that I needed to prioritize my health and focus on what I truly wanted for my family. My husband and I had always dreamed of a second child, but after years of trying, it seemed out of reach. Still, I refused to let MS take away that dream. I closed my home furnishings consignment shop, stepped back from my interior design business, and devoted my energy to my health and our family.

Exactly one year after my diagnosis, on January 27, 2014, I found myself at a very different kind of appointment: my first prenatal visit. I was pregnant with my daughter, something I had thought might never happen. The universe has a funny way of waking you up and forcing you to take a closer look at your life.

The Role of Environment in Healing

It was during this period that I stumbled upon Dr. Esther Sternberg’s groundbreaking book on healing and the mind-body connection called Healing Spaces, The Science of Place and Well-Being. Her work affirmed what I was beginning to realize: our environment plays a crucial role in our wellbeing. From the air we breathe and the light that fills our spaces to the colors, textures, and layouts of our homes, everything around us can either support or hinder our health.

Scientific studies back this up. For example, research has shown that exposure to natural light improves mood and regulates sleep cycles. Indoor plants can purify the air and reduce stress. Organized and aesthetically pleasing spaces can boost productivity and create a sense of calm. Conversely, clutter, poor air quality, and harsh lighting can contribute to anxiety and fatigue.

Designing for Wellness

This understanding inspired me to approach my interior design work through a wellness lens. I’ve seen firsthand how creating intentional, health-supporting spaces can transform lives. From using natural materials that improve air quality to incorporating stress-reducing elements like soft lighting and calming color palettes, I now design spaces that nurture both body and mind.

My journey with MS taught me to prioritize what truly matters: health, happiness, and creating a supportive environment. It’s a lesson I carry with me in my work and in my life, every single day.

Twelve years later, I’m still walking, still thriving, and still learning. MS didn’t define me; it redirected me toward a life of purpose and intention. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that we can’t control everything that happens to us, but we can control the spaces we live in and the choices we make to honor our wellbeing.

If you’re curious about how your environment might be affecting your health and happiness, I’d love to help. Let’s create spaces that inspire and heal—because where you live should support how you thrive.

By Rachel Schemmerling, Timeless Living Designs

When it comes to designing a home that feels as good as it looks, wellness-inspired interiors are the key to creating spaces that nurture both body and soul. Traditional design, with its rich layers and classic details, provides a perfect canvas for infusing wellness elements into your living environment. The result? A home that radiates comfort, beauty, and health—an ideal retreat for you and your family. Here are my top tips for blending wellness features into your timeless, traditional home.

1. Embrace Natural Materials

Traditional interiors often feature warm woods, elegant stone, and soft textiles. These materials can seamlessly align with wellness design principles by choosing natural, sustainable options. Opt for:

• Hardwood Floors: Select low-VOC, sustainably harvested wood to improve indoor air quality.
• Stone Countertops: Choose granite or quartz for durability and a timeless look while minimizing synthetic finishes.
• Natural Fabrics: Incorporate organic cotton, linen, or wool for upholstery, drapery, and rugs.

These natural elements not only bring the outdoors in but also reduce exposure to toxins commonly found in synthetic materials.

2. Prioritize Air Quality

Good air quality is essential for a healthy home, and traditional interiors can accommodate air-purifying elements beautifully:

• Add live plants, such as peace lilies or rubber trees, in decorative ceramic planters that complement traditional aesthetics.
• Invest in high-quality air filters and consider retrofitting your HVAC system with modern purification technology.
• Use low- or zero-VOC paints for walls, trim, and cabinetry to reduce off-gassing while keeping the classic charm of painted millwork.

3. Incorporate Natural Light and Soft Illumination

Traditional homes often have larger windows and architectural details that can highlight natural light. To make the most of this:

• Use sheer curtains or Roman shades in soft hues to diffuse light without sacrificing privacy.
• Install dimmable lighting with classic-style chandeliers or wall sconces to create layers of light for different times of day.
• Arrange mirrors strategically to reflect natural light and amplify the sense of space and brightness.

4. Create a Sense of Calm with Color

Traditional interiors often feature a rich palette of muted tones. Infuse wellness by choosing colors that evoke peace and balance:

• Blues and Greens: Soft sage, muted teal, or timeless navy work beautifully in living rooms and bedrooms to inspire relaxation.
• Warm Neutrals: Creams, taupes, and warm whites provide a clean yet cozy backdrop for your wellness-inspired haven.
• Earthy Accents: Incorporate terracotta, ochre, or blush tones in accessories or textiles for an inviting, grounded feel.

5. Design for Comfort and Functionality

Wellness isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about how a space supports your lifestyle. Classic furniture pieces and thoughtful layouts can elevate comfort:

• Choose ergonomic seating with plush cushions and lumbar support for living areas.
• Incorporate a reading nook with a cozy chair, ottoman, and proper lighting.
• Opt for built-in storage to keep clutter at bay, creating a serene, organized environment.

6. Mindful Spaces for Mindful Moments

Wellness thrives in spaces that encourage intentional living. Traditional homes can easily accommodate these areas:

• Dedicate a corner to meditation or yoga, incorporating a vintage rug and soothing colors.
• Design a spa-like bathroom with a freestanding tub, classic brass fixtures, and natural candles or essential oils.
• Include a wellness kitchen by organizing your pantry with beautiful jars and baskets while ensuring fresh, healthy foods are readily available.

7. Bring the Outdoors In

Traditional design naturally lends itself to incorporating the beauty of nature indoors. Enhance this connection by:

• Decorating with seasonal florals or greenery in classic blue-and-white ginger jars.
• Adding natural stone or brick accents, such as a fireplace or a feature wall.
• Opening up your home’s flow to outdoor spaces with French doors or expanded patios, ideal for moments of fresh air and relaxation.

Final Thoughts

Your home is more than just a space; it’s a sanctuary that supports your well-being and reflects your style. By thoughtfully blending wellness features with timeless, traditional design, you can create a haven that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Whether it’s choosing healthier materials, maximizing natural light, or crafting calming spaces, every decision contributes to a home that nurtures you and your family—inside and out.

Ready to create a home that embraces wellness and timeless design? Let’s connect! Whether it’s a full renovation or a single room makeover, I’m here to bring your vision to life.