Think Universal

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

In a recent article in "Times Leader," Nancy Mattia explored universal home design with interior designer Sarah Barnard.
In the article, Mattia discusses the core ideas and considerations behind universal design when designing a residential or commercial environment.

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

"'Universal design takes into account a broad range of users and abilities,' says Sarah Barnard, a Los Angeles home designer. 'It makes sense for designers and builders to plan our projects with that in mind since great design should accommodate the widest number of users - ourselves, our kids, our parents, our grandparents.'"

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

Considering a range of users, Sarah can create designs welcoming to a variety of guests that ensure the design's longevity as the client's needs shift as their family grows and ages.

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

When discussing home design details to consider, Sarah turned to room transitions and flooring, noting that decisions like tile size may affect a space's safety and functionality. Small tiles use more grout, creating larger traction areas on the floor, while oversized tiles can increase the risk of slipping.

On discussing accessibility and planning with her clients, Sarah shared that "'No one wants to think about a less-than-ideal future, when they may need help getting around and living in their home.' […] So rather than plan for tomorrow, she asks reluctant clients to plan for today: 'What would happen if one of your kids gets a sports injury and can't make it up the stairs to the bedroom or bathroom?' she asks them. Most people eventually see the light."

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL

PHOTO BY: STEVEN DEWALL



Originally published on Ion Television, where the complete article is available. 

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that connect deeply to nature and art. Empathy and mindfulness are the foundation of her practice creating healing, supportive environments that enhance life.

Healing Spaces: How Designers Can Cultivate Wellness in the Built Environment

Empathy can uncover the deep needs of humans in private and public spaces. Leading practitioners in LA's a+d community gathered Friday, October 11th at the Helms Design Center for a conversation about the role of empathy in creating extraordinary experiences.

Hosted by OM and PLP SoCal, this inaugural session of OM Chats gathers leading voices in architecture, interior, and product design for a morning discussion about the ideas shaping design and wellness. Speakers include Sarah Barnard, WELL AP + LEED AP, principal of Sarah Barnard Design, Julie Smith-Clementi, AIA, IDSA, architect and product designer, and Adaeze Cadet, AIA, LEED AP, BD+C, vice president at HKS.

The discussion centered around how to design spaces and products that reflect a broader — more empathetic — understanding of the human experience in the workplace, health care spaces, educational facilities, and wherever people gather and live.

Photo by: Steven DeWall

Photo by: Steven DeWall

Transcript of Sarah Barnard’s presentation:

In my practice, as a WELL and LEED accredited interior architectural designer, I specialize in creating environments that support the occupant's mental and physical wellbeing. An empathetic approach is the foundation of my process.

As a neurodivergent person, with sensory processing differences, I know all too well that we live in a world designed for neurotypical people. Normative built environments can be extremely uncomfortable, even traumatic, for many people. For example, individuals with Post Traumatic Stress and folks on the Autistic spectrum may both have sensitivities to sound, light, textures, and odors. People with chronic migraines and people who are chemically sensitive might also have overlapping reactivity to fragrances, sounds, and light.

Photo by: Steven DeWall

Photo by: Steven DeWall

The reality is, most humans will have experiences during their developmental years that forever impact their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Research indicates that traumatic experiences don't just happen to some people; they happen to most people. In the late 1990s, Kaiser Permanente conducted a study on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). They asked more than 13,000 of their members to complete a 10-question survey on traumatic childhood experiences and to report any health issues they were currently facing.

From this pool of respondents, about two-thirds had at least one ACE. 12% of the population reported an ACE score of 4 or more. An ACE score of 4+ nearly doubles the risk of heart disease and cancer and increases the risk of attempted suicide by twelve times. Understanding that the health impacts of trauma are not a "special population" issue, but a general population issue is critical to our ability to design with empathy.

Artwork: Deborah Cansler, Photo: Chas Metivier

Artwork: Deborah Cansler, Photo: Chas Metivier

No matter our circumstance, it can be challenging to share details about ourselves that may be perceived as a disability. So, while we can't always ask, we can understand that many of us may have unaddressed environmental needs.

Even neurotypical people, without exposure to trauma, can easily experience cognitive overload in intensely stimulating environments. Activities like commuting, social interactions, processing large amounts of data, being exposed to fragrances, and repetitive auditory disturbances, can impact our mental and emotional resilience in unseen ways. Because of the magnitude of stressors in public life, humans benefit in measurable ways from a restorative home environment. Restoring at home makes us stronger in the workplace and the world at large.

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Renae Barnard + Ruben Vincent, Photo: Steven DeWall

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Renae Barnard + Ruben Vincent, Photo: Steven DeWall

When designing commercial office environments for clients like National Geographic Entertainment, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation/ Life Rolls On and the National Immigration Law Center, I consider the intersections and overlap of the community members and develop strategies to accommodate the highest possible needs.

Though it is vital to remember, as we have access to an ever-growing body of research that informs our practice of designing spaces that encourage wellbeing, it is nearly impossible to soothe all humans with a single design solution. So, meeting clients where they are and creating a safe, judgment-free dialogue is the first step in designing inclusive, supportive spaces.

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Jose Ramirez, Photo: Chas Metivier

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Jose Ramirez, Photo: Chas Metivier

 In my experience, being mindful and empathetic to diverse sensitivities creates an opportunity to design spaces that inspire a sense of peace. Armed with the understanding that we can't expect anyone to share the details of their pain, nor ask for what they need, designers must consider the most sensitive populations, so more environments feel safe and empowering to all.

 How do we do this?

We must think about an expansion of universal design principles to include physical, mental, and emotional health. For example, we know that biophilic design can reduce physiological and psychological stress. Having a comfortable place to meditate can reduce anxiety, depression, and pain. Exposure to natural light can regulate our circadian rhythms and increase serotonin levels.

Artwork: Ruben Vincent, Photo: Steven DeWall

Artwork: Ruben Vincent, Photo: Steven DeWall

When access to nature isn't readily available, art is an excellent alternative solution. Viewing original works of art can stimulate the brain, providing an imaginative connection to the mind of the artist and a momentary transcendence into another reality. In 2011 a University of London study found that viewing art produces a similar effect in the brain as falling in love, causing a rush of pleasure producing dopamine.

Just as we consider the positive impacts of nature and art on health and wellbeing, we place equal importance on the selection of materials and how they can shift the feeling, light levels, and acoustic qualities of a space.

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Kevin Moore, Photo: Ace Misiunas

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Kevin Moore, Photo: Ace Misiunas

Because truly non-toxic materials are in limited supply, our studio regularly designs textiles, wallpapers, furniture, and light fixtures, working with local craftspeople to fabricate safely and responsibly.

 While we are mindful of avoiding materials with VOCs,  some non-toxic materials like linseed oil, tung oils, and even citrus-based solvents can cause distress to people who are chemically sensitive, people undergoing chemotherapy and people with COPD.

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Kevin Moore, Photo: Ace Misiunas

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Artwork: Kevin Moore, Photo: Ace Misiunas

In 20 years of professional practice, I have learned that empathy and mindfulness are critical in creating healing, supportive environments. Contemplating design strategies that can benefit all populations, is not a trend; it's an evolution in expanding our quality of life.

 Together, we are part of a movement to be mindful, empathetic, and collaborative, supporting one another to make all built environments healing, restorative spaces.

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Photo: Steven DeWall

Interior Design: Sarah Barnard, Photo: Steven DeWall

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art. With a contemporary approach that employs traditional vocabulary, Barnard’s range of style is innovative yet time-honored. The ideas most essential to her practice and design process are wellness, historic preservation, and the infinite ways in which design can enhance life.

Three trailblazing queer women who shaped design history

At the Moulin-Rouges, Two Women Waltzing By Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Works from the National Gallery in Prague. Photo by: Jan Sedlák, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Odeon, Praha 1985. Public Domain.

At the Moulin-Rouges, Two Women Waltzing By Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Works from the National Gallery in Prague. Photo by: Jan Sedlák, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Odeon, Praha 1985. Public Domain.

Today and every day, we celebrate the pioneering queer women who helped to shape the interior design industry. The erasure of women — particularly queer women — from history is a troubling phenomenon and underscores the importance of sharing the stories of these lesbian and bisexual women who left their mark on design.

Interior of Elsie De Wolfe' music pavilion looking out on to the pool, The Villa Trianon , rendered by William Bruce Ellis Ranken (1881-1941). Public Domain.

Interior of Elsie De Wolfe' music pavilion looking out on to the pool, The Villa Trianon , rendered by William Bruce Ellis Ranken (1881-1941). Public Domain.

Elsie de Wolfe, c. 1880.By Unknown. Public Domain.

Elsie de Wolfe, c. 1880.

By Unknown. Public Domain.

1. Elsie de Wolfe

Elsie de Wolfe is the OG of interior decorating. Born in 1859, she began her career as an actress, which earned her fame and influence among the high society crowd. Realizing she had more of a knack for set design than acting, de Wolfe transitioned into interior decorating — a profession that didn't even exist at the time. Her well-heeled clientèle included Henry Clay Frick, Amy Vanderbilt, Cole Porter, Wallis Simpson, and George Bernard Shaw.

She disapproved of over-designed Victorian interiors, preferring instead to remove clutter and simplify spaces to make entertaining easier. De Wolfe's aesthetic could be described as colorful, airy, and opulent. "I opened the doors and windows of America, and let the air and sunshine in," she once said of her legacy.

She drew much of her inspiration from 18th-century French design, introducing pale paint colors, exotic animal prints, wicker furniture, nature motifs, and strategically placed mirrors into her projects.

De Wolfe's personal life was equally as colorful: she enjoyed a so-called "Boston marriage," living openly and happily with her lover, Elisabeth "Bessie" Marbury, a successful theatrical and literary agent. Their relationship spanned 40 years, and together, the couple renovated several homes in Manhattan and the 'Villa Trianon,' a French estate outside of Versailles. De Wolfe and Marbury continued their relationship until Marbury passed away in 1933, naming de Wolfe as her sole heir.

Portrait of Miss May Morris, Portraits of many persons of note photographed by Frederick Hollyer, Vol. 3, platinum print, late 19th century. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, museum no. 7821-1938. Public Domain.

Portrait of Miss May Morris, Portraits of many persons of note photographed by Frederick Hollyer, Vol. 3, platinum print, late 19th century. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, museum no. 7821-1938. Public Domain.

2. Mary 'May' Morris

Living in the shadow of her famous father, William Morris, Mary 'May' Morris never got the recognition she deserved as a textile designer. The family business, Morris & Co., created printed fabrics and wallpaper, stained glass and artful embroidery — many of their iconic designs are still treasured today, and distributed by the Sanderson brand.

May was a true talent — designing wallpaper, editing her father's poems, and heading up the embroidery department of Morris & Co. at the ripe old age of 23. She was a staunch feminist and socialist, and co-founded the Women's Guild of Arts in 1907, dismayed by the fact that the Art Workers Guild prohibited women from joining their ranks.

She was also a lesbian and lived with her partner, Mary Lobb, in a historic manor house in West Oxfordshire, England for more than twenty years. Lobb was initially brought on by May to work as the 'female gardener' at Kelmscott Manor, but the two struck up a close relationship, and Lobb was invited to move in. The couple was fond of camping in the countryside and visited Iceland together several times. May Morris died in October 1938, and Mary Lobb passed away just five months later in March 1938.

Wallpaper Design. Attributed to William Morris. c. 1881. Photo by Unknown. Public Domain.

Wallpaper Design. Attributed to William Morris. c. 1881. Photo by Unknown. Public Domain.

Portrait of Eileen Gray. c. 1910. By Unknown. Public Domain.

Portrait of Eileen Gray. c. 1910. By Unknown. Public Domain.

Table E.1027, Design by Eileen Gray (1878-1976). Public Domain.

Table E.1027, Design by Eileen Gray (1878-1976). Public Domain.

3. Eileen Gray

The creations of modernist hero Eileen Gray look just as in vogue today as they did in the 1920s and 30s when she designed them. The Irish-born architect and furniture designer opened up a gallery in 1922 along Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris where she sold her pieces.

Her skills were numerous and her style was ever-evolving. Gray was a sought-after interior designer and self-taught architect. Some of her famous works include the often imitated adjustable table E 1027, the tubular Bibendum chair, and E-1027, a modernist-masterpiece-slash-vacation-home on the Côte d'Azur in the South of France.

Gray had many relationships with both men and women. In Paris during the 1920s, she ran with a crowd of celesbian artists and became the lover of the French singer, Damia. Allegedly, the two were fond of driving around the city in a Chenard-Walcker with Damia's pet panther sitting in the back seat — how casual!

Gray's legacy was nearly erased from the history books but has since been revived with the release of two films about her remarkable life. Her ex-boyfriend and fellow architect, Jean Badovici, was often falsely credited for the design of E.1027, although she had designed it for him as a sort of modernist love shack. Thankfully, her work has not been forgotten, and the formerly derelict E.1027 is now a museum that's open to visitors.

The legacies of these three queer women live on through their work. So the next time you spot an adjustable table E.1027 replica, transform a dark, dreary room with a gallon of white paint, or wallpaper your powder room in a Morris print, think of these fearless creatives who helped shape the interior design industry into what it is today.

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, and personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art. To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.

Russian writer Zinaida Gippius (Зинаида Николаевна Гиппиус, 1869-1945), by Léon Bakst (1906). Public Domain.

Russian writer Zinaida Gippius (Зинаида Николаевна Гиппиус, 1869-1945), by Léon Bakst (1906). Public Domain.

Why outdoor living spaces are right for your health, and how to design yours to perfection.

Hand printed outdoor textiles highlight the weathered teak furnishings and compliment the pool tile. Photo by Renae Barnard.

Hand printed outdoor textiles highlight the weathered teak furnishings and compliment the pool tile. Photo by Renae Barnard.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average American spends 87 percent of their time indoors. We put considerable effort into designing the interiors of our homes, with little regard for the outdoor spaces.

"No matter where you are or how large your outdoor space, you can benefit from a daily connection with nature," says sustainable interior designer Sarah Barnard. Want to spend more time outdoors this summer? Rethinking your balcony, garden, or terrace is an excellent place to start. Here are a couple of reasons why outdoor living equates to a healthy life.

It benefits your mental and physical health.

Imagine stepping out onto your front porch with a cup of tea in hand, feeling the morning sun on your skin. Sounds nice, right? Moderate sun exposure does the body good — refreshing our circadian rhythms, lowering cortisol levels and blood pressure, and improving concentration. Sarah's morning routine includes a stroll through the garden with her miniature poodle, Lucy, in tow. "It allows me to start the day cheerful, grateful and breathing fresh air," she explains.

A glorious guest cottage inspired by Cape Cod and flattered by painstaking attention to detail. Photo by Renae Barnard.

A glorious guest cottage inspired by Cape Cod and flattered by painstaking attention to detail. Photo by Renae Barnard.

It encourages us to spend more time with our loved ones.

We get it — planning and hosting an event is stressful. Even if you burn the hors d' oeuvres to a crisp, run out of red wine, or forget to bring out the on-theme cocktail napkins, it's always worth it in the end, isn't it? A Mayo Clinic study shows that socializing with your closest friends and family improves your overall sense of well-being and purpose.

And since summer is the time for alfresco entertaining, what could be better than celebrating the season in your beautifully designed outdoor space, surrounded by your nearest and dearest? Thanks to improvements in technology and design, outdoor furniture and decor have come a long way (see ya, fold-up camping chairs). Today, our outdoor living spaces can be just as comfortable and luxurious as our indoor spaces.

Fresh and fun colors come to life in the open air media room. The locally made sectional sofa was designed to fit the homeowner’s specific desires: all natural & non-toxic materials, handmade in California. Photo by Steven Dewall.

Fresh and fun colors come to life in the open air media room. The locally made sectional sofa was designed to fit the homeowner’s specific desires: all natural & non-toxic materials, handmade in California. Photo by Steven Dewall.

Now that we've established why you should be spending more time outdoors allow us to explain how to do it in style. When designing an outdoor living space, Sarah advises her clients first to select a focal point. "Is it a beautiful tree? A softly trickling fountain? An impressive outdoor kitchen? The elements that you choose to dominate the space physically and visually influence its overall feeling and mood" says Sarah.

Mimic your interior spaces outdoors.

We're not suggesting you expose your vintage leather sofa to the elements, but integrating pieces that create a feeling of coziness — like a knit throw or an outdoor fireplace — will make chilly evenings more enjoyable. During the daytime when the summer sun is beating down, you'll want to add shade through the use of a modern pergola, permanent roof, shade sail or patio umbrella. And avid home cooks may consider investing in a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, complete with a gas grill, pizza oven, prep sink, storage cabinets, counter space and a compact refrigerator (you know, for all the rosé you'll be drinking this summer).

The cozy patio pairs luxurious outdoor tiles with Chinese artisan pottery to create a quiet retreat. Photo by Charlie Daniels.

The cozy patio pairs luxurious outdoor tiles with Chinese artisan pottery to create a quiet retreat. Photo by Charlie Daniels.

When in doubt, hire a designer

"Even creative people find it difficult to craft a beautiful, functional and healthy home that adequately reflects their uniqueness," notes Sarah. When laying out your design plans for a courtyard or veranda, hiring an experienced designer is the first step. Not only does an expert have access to a broader selection of custom outdoor furnishings and fabrics, but they can also ensure the final product will be flawless. "Your interior designer has a vested interest in the success of your project being completed to the highest caliber and can be an invaluable asset when dealing with vendors and contractors," adds Sarah.  

This stylish patio showcases handmade roman shades attach to a custom wood enclosure for privacy and shade. Photo by Steven Dewall.

This stylish patio showcases handmade roman shades attach to a custom wood enclosure for privacy and shade. Photo by Steven Dewall.

A designer will create a multi-functional outdoor space with your preferences and goals in mind. They're able to conceptualize the big picture and execute every detail with precision. It's time to unlock the untapped potential of your seldom-visited balcony, courtyard, or terrace. Whether you crave a secret garden or a lively space to entertain, a designer can turn your idea into a reality. "Your home should enhance your lifestyle and express your uniqueness," says Sarah. "My work is centered on health and happiness — anything we can do to help our clients live better, we will."

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, and personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art. To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.

A natural teak wood ball fashioned into a rugged side table pairs with a weathered teak armchair and lightweight pottery. Photo by Steven Dewall.

A natural teak wood ball fashioned into a rugged side table pairs with a weathered teak armchair and lightweight pottery. Photo by Steven Dewall.

Sneak Preview: Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts 2019

The Boddy House built in 1937 by architect James Dolena at the Descanso Gardens.

The Boddy House built in 1937 by architect James Dolena at the Descanso Gardens.

On April 16th, Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA) opened its 2019 Design Showcase House for an exclusive press-only preview. As a notable interior design firm and social media influencer, Sarah Barnard Design was invited to attend the press viewing and capture a sneak peek of the house, which opens later this month. While the select group of visitors was allowed to take photos, no guests will be allowed to take pictures or use cell phones once the event officially opens.

This year’s design showcase location is the historic Boddy House on the grounds of the beautiful Descanso Gardens. Notable Los Angeles architect James E. Dolena designed the home in 1937 in his trademark Hollywood Regency Style for E. Manchester Boddy, owner of the former Los Angeles Illustrated Daily News and founder of the Descanso Gardens. Now owned by the Los Angeles County and considered a house museum, Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts selected the Boddy House to be transformed by interior designers for the 43rd annual showcase event.

Each designer was assigned a room of this bi-level garden estate to makeover resulting in the complete rehabilitation of the historic property. Hearkening back to the Hollywood’s “Golden Era” the designers offer a contemporary reinterpretation of the original Hollywood Regency Style abound with opulent detail, vibrant patterns, and bold color schemes. Botanical inspiration abounds as lush gardens surround the property in the full bloom of Spring. Floral wallpapers, nature-inspired furnishings, and organic sculptures bring new life to the home.

The Boddy House will be open from April 21st to May 19th, 2019. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at http://pasadenashowcase.org/

Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts, a non-profit, all-volunteer organization, runs this showcase house as a fundraiser for their charity work and welcomes nearly 25,000 visitors each year. All money raised from this event will support local music programs. Designers from all over California come to take part in the making of this project to benefit the community. See this year’s crop of designers, who generously donated their time and expertise, here.

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.

To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.

2018 Showcase Archive

Photos by Abby Siniscal

Superbloom: Happy Healthy Interiors Inspired by Nature

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Happy spring! A “super bloom” has popped up all over California in the past few weeks, a result of a record-breaking amount of rain this past Winter season. Bright orange poppies, desert lilies, yellow and white evening primrose, and pink Bigelow monkey flower, are some of the flowers blossoming in considerable numbers to the delight of hikers, tourists, and nature-lovers throughout California. The super bloom has people flocking to parks such as Walker Canyon in Lake Elsinore, Near Desert Lily Sanctuary, and Diamond Valley Lake.

Close up of a wild poppy.

Close up of a wild poppy.

Flowers blooming in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Flowers blooming in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Los-Feliz-local Sarah Barnard, interior designer, WELL AP, LEED AP, keeps her own wildflower garden, where she planted a variety of poppies from seeds and is experiencing her super bloom. “The colors and textures that come with each season are delightful and inspiring,” said Barnard. “I grow a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, (carrots, radishes, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers of all kinds, cantaloupe, lemons limes, avocado, lettuces & herbs) as well as cactus, succulents, and flowering/ornamental plants.”

Barnard recently took time to visit Griffith Park, Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, and Anza Borrego State Park to see the super bloom herself. Sarah, who specializes in interior design that contributes to her client’s health and wellness, and strives to make nature a part of each home she creates, shared photos of her recent trips.

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“This year’s superbloom is a colorful reminder that nature informs life and design,” Barnard said. Incorporating this principle into the design of your home is one way to contribute to your happiness and health. The study of the effect of nature in design on our health is called Biophilia, and we have previously written about this phenomenon.

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One way to bring this happy and healthy nature into your home design is to incorporate natural and organic forms, which are visually pleasing and encourage our connection to the outdoors. Selecting art, lighting or furniture for your home that resembles natural forms is one way to make an inviting and exciting space. Art and shapes inspired by nature could mean a light fixture that looks like a plant or a sculpture that looks like an animal.

Fresh flowers and bright pink leather reminiscent of wildflowers create a warm and inviting dining nook.

Fresh flowers and bright pink leather reminiscent of wildflowers create a warm and inviting dining nook.

Cheerful coral pink tile pairs beautifully with flowers.

Cheerful coral pink tile pairs beautifully with flowers.

Sarah Barnard is a strong advocate of having nature incorporated directly into a space as well. Add your favorite flowers, succulents, and ferns. “In my home, I keep a healthy variety of plants: bromeliads, tillandsia, monstera, and ferns are among my favorites. Having this connection to nature makes my home feel lush and light.”

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Using natural materials, aside from being beautiful and adding diverse texture to space, is also an excellent way to contribute to mental and physical well being. Having materials like wood, cotton, and glass rather than plastic and vinyl will avoid toxic off-gassing.

This dining room features fresh flowers, bright colors, and natural wood tones.

This dining room features fresh flowers, bright colors, and natural wood tones.

This colorful palette was inspired by flowers.

This colorful palette was inspired by flowers.

Fresh flowers add life and warmth to a contemporary space.

Fresh flowers add life and warmth to a contemporary space.

To battle the stresses of everyday life, you can use mindful home design practices to create open spaces connected with the environment, plant-life, and the seasons. Barnard reminds, "Our surroundings deeply and immediately impact our mental, physical, and emotional health. A visual connection with the outdoors can improve mood and productivity, and what we bring into a home or space (finishes, furniture, artwork) determines both the quality of the air we breathe and how we function in our daily lives." The flower fields make great inspiration for such a space, with their bright colors, gorgeous views, and fresh air.

There is energy, beauty, and vitality in wildflowers. Spring is the perfect time to find inspiration from flower fields and create a connection to the outdoors. You can do this by beginning a garden, using interior design to personalize your home or office, meaningfully incorporating plants, natural light, and elements inspired by nature. Choose natural materials like wood, cotton, and linen, and take inspiration from this season's super bloom by using bold and bright colors. As more of us make our careers our focus, nature and design are imperative to promote calmness, serenity and healthy living.

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And when in doubt, go hiking!

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.

To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.

Photos by Steven Dewall, Abby Siniscal, Chas Metivier

Designer Crush: Sarah Barnard

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Designer Crush: Sarah Barnard

Upscale private residences, chic restaurants, luxurious spas, and corporate headquarters: all are fair game to Los Angeles designer Sarah Barnard. With specialties in sustainable interior design, health and wellness, and historic preservation, Barnard brings a passion and dedication to her projects uniquely grounded in innovation. Barnard is currently involved in interior design projects in the Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Los Feliz, Hancock Park & Palos Verdes Estates. Learn more about the designer in our Q&A below.

In this interview with CA Homes and Design, Sarah Barnard opens up about how she found inspiration growing up in historic homes. Art, interior design, and sustainability have been a central part of her education and experience. In graduate school, Sarah explored sculpture and environmental installations. As a native Angelino and artist, she quickly carved out a niche for herself in sustainable, healthy design.

Health and wellness are central pillars of Sarah’s practice. She explains how a connection to nature and the outdoors can improve the quality of a person’s life and make a home more beautiful and comfortable. She gives careful consideration to each project to produce a home that contributes to the wellness of the homeowners.

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When beginning a new project, Sarah visits the space and observes her client’s current situation. She learns about what they like, what they don’t like, and what they want out of the transformation to make the process as seamless and effective as possible.

Sarah explains that ’California’s style embodies the values of the people here and reflects the landscape’s mountains, deserts, sea, and sky.

Sarah continues to draw inspiration from nature and cultivates a diverse garden of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and succulents. Some of her favorites are Abutilon, Brugmansia, and Camellia.

Sarah believes that travel broadens the mind. Her travels through Milan, Paris, and Victoria were centered on nature, food, architecture, and art.

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Asked about her favorite musical artists, Sarah chose strong, independent women like Ingrid Michaelson, Sarah Harmer, and Corinne Bailey Rae. Her favorite movie, The Other Boleyn Girl, stars two of her favorite actresses: Scarlett Johansson and Natalie Portman.

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Please be sure to check out this interview on CA Home and Design’s website for Sarah’s full answers.

By Michelle Konstantinovsky 

Sarah Barnard designs healthy, happy, personalized spaces that are deeply connected to nature and art.

To learn more about Sarah Barnard Design, please visit www.SarahBarnard.com.