Being Well at Home

For me, well-being and being organized at home go hand in hand. No one wants to waste time looking for car keys, a special bracelet or their child’s favourite stuffed animal. It’s frustrating, and frustrated is the opposite of the calm state of mind that’s necessary for a sense of well-being.

Home really is a sanctuary now. That’s why this issue is dedicated to creating a beautifully decorated, nurturing, well-ordered environment. I love the way designer Michelle Hurley transformed a home by rearranging its main-floor footprint to create space for the family to come together. Then she decorated in a modern, spirited, soulful style (“Making Room,” page 78). You have to see her amazing organizing solution for the busy entryway. It’s a gorgeous piece of smart design – an orderly, sweet-looking mud room on a wall!

Speaking of entryways, we are so lucky to show you

Jann Arden’s Toronto condo (her home away from her Alberta home), designed by Tommy Smythe and Laura Fremont (page 26). Tommy and Laura placed a stunning étagère in the entryway for books and lovely accents, so that as soon as Jann walks in, she sees the personal objects she prizes and feels more at home. Throughout the space, Jann’s values drove the decorating – she and Tommy are vegan, so cruelty-free furnishings were essential. I applaud that dedication to mindful design. Knowing yourself and being true to your values is, to me, at the heart of decorating for well-being.

We discuss this even further in Karl Lohnes’ interview with Alicia Ruach (page 40) and in our look at four different decorating approaches that promote well-being at home (page 36). The issue really is full of ideas for making your home a beautiful, nurturing space in your own special way. I hope it inspires you!