Home Wellness & Air Quality
Creating spaces that support health, comfort, and overall well-being
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
We spend approximately 90% of our time indoors, making the quality of our indoor environment a critical factor in our overall health. Indoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air, containing allergens, VOCs, particulate matter, and other contaminants.
Poor indoor air quality has been linked to a range of health issues, from minor irritations like headaches and fatigue to more serious concerns such as respiratory conditions and cognitive impairment. By improving your home's air quality and incorporating wellness-focused design principles, you can create a space that actively supports your health.
Air Quality Solutions
Ventilation Systems
Proper ventilation dilutes indoor pollutants and introduces fresh outdoor air. Options include:
- Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs)
- Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)
- Advanced window and door systems
- Smart ventilation with air quality monitoring
Benefit: Reduces VOC concentrations by up to 80% and significantly lowers CO2 levels.
Air Filtration
Remove airborne particles, allergens, and some VOCs with effective filtration:
- HEPA filtration systems
- Activated carbon filters for VOCs
- High-MERV HVAC filters
- Portable air purifiers for targeted filtration
Benefit: HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including most allergens and fine dust.
Humidity Control
Maintain optimal humidity levels to prevent mold growth and support respiratory health:
- Whole-house dehumidifiers
- Properly sized humidification systems
- Smart humidity monitoring
- Moisture-resistant building materials
Benefit: Maintaining 40-60% relative humidity reduces airborne virus transmission and enhances comfort.
Indoor Plants
Incorporate air-purifying plants that naturally filter certain pollutants:
- Snake Plants (Sansevieria)
- Peace Lilies
- Spider Plants
- Boston Ferns
Benefit: Beyond filtration, plants increase oxygen levels and have been shown to reduce stress and improve mood.
5 Ways to Reduce Indoor Toxins
Remove Shoes at the Door
Shoes track in pesticides, lead, dirt, and bacteria. Create a dedicated entryway station with storage for shoes and a washable mat or rug.
Use Natural Cleaning Products
Conventional cleaning products can release harmful VOCs. Switch to plant-based, fragrance-free alternatives or make your own using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Avoid Synthetic Fragrances
Scented products like air fresheners, candles, and personal care items often contain phthalates and other harmful chemicals. Opt for unscented products or those scented with pure essential oils.
Manage Dust Effectively
Dust harbors allergens, mites, and chemicals. Use microfiber cloths for dusting, vacuum with a HEPA filter, and reduce clutter that collects dust. Consider removing wall-to-wall carpeting if possible.
Mind Your Cooking Methods
Cooking, especially at high heat, can release particulate matter. Use proper ventilation when cooking, and consider air-purifying alternatives like induction cooktops instead of gas ranges.
Ergonomic Furniture Layout
Beyond air quality, the physical arrangement of your space plays a crucial role in supporting comfort, reducing strain, and preventing injury.
Supportive Seating
Choose chairs that provide proper lumbar support and allow for neutral posture. Ensure feet can rest flat on the floor with knees at approximately 90 degrees.
Screen Positioning
Position monitors at eye level, approximately an arm's length away. This reduces neck strain and helps prevent digital eye strain.
Traffic Flow
Arrange furniture to create clear pathways of at least 30 inches wide. This prevents tripping hazards and makes spaces more accessible.
Natural Light Access
Position desks and seating to take advantage of natural light without creating glare on screens. Consider adjustable window treatments for light control.
Our wellness consultants can provide personalized recommendations for optimizing your specific spaces.
Schedule an Ergonomic AssessmentHome Air Quality Scorecard
Take this quick assessment to evaluate your home's current air quality status.
Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors
Biophilic design incorporates natural elements and patterns into built environments, enhancing well-being and connection to nature.
Living Elements
Incorporate plants, indoor gardens, or living walls to improve air quality, reduce stress, and create visual interest. Choose a variety of species with different textures, heights, and leaf patterns.
Natural Materials
Use materials like wood, stone, bamboo, and natural fibers that maintain a connection to the earth. These materials not only add warmth and texture but also help regulate humidity and often have lower emissions.
Nature Views
Maximize visual connections to outdoor natural elements through thoughtful window placement and unobstructed views. Even images of nature can provide psychological benefits when direct views aren't possible.
Water Elements
The sound and sight of water can create a multisensory calming effect. Consider small fountains, aquariums, or reflective surfaces that mimic water's qualities of movement and light reflection.
Research-Backed Benefits of Biophilic Design
Cognitive Function
Studies show 15-20% improvement in focus and concentration
Stress Reduction
Measurable decreases in cortisol levels and blood pressure
Energy Levels
Natural elements boost perceived energy and reduce fatigue
Sleep Quality
Better circadian rhythm alignment and sleep satisfaction