Wellness and Interiors: Designing for Healthier Living
In recent years, ‘wellness’ has moved from a niche concern into a mainstream priority. Australians are increasingly expecting their homes to not only be sanctuaries of style but also as places that actively support physical health, mental balance, and overall wellbeing.
For interior designers and cabinet makers, this shift represents an opportunity to deliver projects that marry beauty with function, while also responding to the growing body of research around healthier built environments.
The Role of Materials in Healthier Homes
Material choice sits at the foundation of wellness-driven design. For cabinetry and interior finishes, this often comes down to how products affect indoor air quality. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), found in many adhesives, paints, and laminates, can contribute to respiratory irritation, fatigue, and headaches. Designers who specify low-VOC or VOC-free finishes, natural oils, and water-based adhesives are taking a proactive step towards healthier interiors.
Timber remains a hero material in this space, not only for its natural appeal but also for its biophilic qualities. Studies show that exposure to natural materials like wood can reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. For cabinet makers, sourcing responsibly certified Australian hardwoods or engineered timbers with strong environmental credentials supports both wellness and sustainability.
Beyond timber, surfaces such as natural stone, bamboo, and recycled composite boards are gaining traction as clients seek to avoid synthetics while also valuing durability. The key is transparency—knowing where materials come from and how they perform over time.
Designing for Ergonomics and Everyday Comfort
Wellness isn’t just about air quality; it’s also about how spaces function for the human body. Poorly designed or built kitchens or workspaces can lead to discomfort, strain, or even injury over time. Cabinetry plays a central role in this equation.
Height, reach, and accessibility should guide every project. Adjustable shelving, soft-close mechanisms, and well-placed pull-outs not only enhance usability but also reduce physical stress. In kitchens, ensuring that benches are tailored to client height can make a world of difference in everyday comfort. Similarly, thoughtful consideration of workflows can support better posture and reduce repetitive strain.
Lighting is another ergonomic factor often overlooked in cabinetry design. Incorporating LED strip lighting under cabinets or within drawers not only creates visual drama but also ensures tasks can be performed safely and comfortably.
The Psychology of Interior Planning
Wellness extends beyond the physical—it has a strong psychological dimension. Interior planning that allows for calm, flow, and flexibility can support mental wellbeing. Designers are increasingly applying principles of biophilic design, such as maximising natural light, framing views of greenery, and using natural textures, to create environments that feel restorative.
Cabinetry can either contribute to or detract from this sense of calm. Clutter is a known stress trigger, so clever storage solutions that keep surfaces clear can have a surprisingly large impact on a home’s atmosphere. Hidden compartments, custom drawer organisers, and integrated appliances all support the trend towards clean, uncluttered spaces that feel more spacious and serene.
Future Directions: Technology and Wellness
As technology continues to weave its way into interiors, its role in supporting wellness will only grow. Smart cabinetry solutions, such as push-to-open drawers, sensor-controlled lighting, and integrated charging stations, can reduce physical strain and create smoother user experiences. Looking further ahead, we may even see cabinetry materials with antimicrobial properties or air-purifying finishes becoming standard practice.
The rise of wellness-focused certifications, such as the WELL Building Standard, also signals a shift that designers and makers should watch closely. While these frameworks are often applied to commercial spaces, their principles—air quality, comfort, light, and nourishment—are increasingly informing residential projects, too.
A Business Opportunity for Designers and Makers
Ultimately, wellness-focused design is not just about creating healthier interiors; it’s also about building stronger connections with clients. As Australians become more conscious of how their homes affect their wellbeing, they’re looking for professionals who can offer expertise and solutions in this area. Designers and cabinet makers who stay informed about wellness trends, material health, and ergonomic best practices will be well-placed to lead conversations with clients and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
By framing cabinetry and interior design not only as aesthetic choices but also as contributors to health and wellbeing, professionals can deliver spaces that truly enrich the lives of those who live in them. It’s a powerful way to elevate the value of design while responding to one of the most significant lifestyle trends of our time.
