Sarah Barnard’s design approach for highly sensitive individuals is rooted in wellness-based and trauma-informed practices, focusing on creating restorative sanctuaries. As a WELL and LEED accredited designer, she focuses on the intersection of sensory needs and aesthetic preferences to reduce environmental stressors.  

Sensory Management & Olfactory Neutrality: To prevent sensory overwhelm, the studio prioritizes low-VOC, non-toxic materials and maintains fragrance-free protocols during construction. Design strategies include scent-free spaces and the use of natural, neutral materials that promote a healthy olfactory environment.

Acoustic Softening: Utilizing high-performance acoustic treatments, sound-absorbing textiles, and specialized insulation to minimize external noise and internal echoes, acoustic softening strategies create a peaceful auditory environment that protects against sudden sensory arousal.

Biophilic Stress Reduction: Integrating nature-inspired elements, such as indoor plants, organic textures like stone and wood, and biophilic imagery, leverages the benefits of nature to provide a grounding connection to the outdoors.  

Circadian & Layered Lighting: Implementing programmable lighting systems that mimic natural daylight cycles to help stabilize sleep-wake cycles. Customizable, dimmable networks combine overhead, task, and wall lighting, allowing users to transition seamlessly.  

Minimalist & Orderly Layouts: Help to create intuitive, unobstructed pathways to reduce cognitive load and visual noise. Designs can include integrated, built-in storage to eliminate floor-level obstacles and concealment techniques that blend furniture into the walls, minimizing visual clutter.

Tactile Grounding & Physical Comfort: The selection of high-quality, natural textiles—such as breathable linen and soft cotton velvet—provides a gentle hand feel that can help minimize skin-level irritation. These materials can be paired with ergonomic furniture tailored to individual body dimensions, providing stable physical support and reducing the fatigue associated with improper posture.

Visual Tranquility & Glare Reduction: The application of matte finishes across flooring, cabinetry, and work surfaces helps reduce reflective glare.

Sensory Retreats & Quiet Zones: Safety nests, wellness rooms, or restorative nooks can provide a sense of being enveloped and offer a refuge from external overstimulation.  

Smart Home Autonomy: Discreet automation for lighting, window treatments, and climate control helps empower individuals to customize their exposure to sensory stimuli.

Personalized Color Stories: Soothing, grounding palettes often featuring blues, greens, or soft neutrals help create a visual atmosphere that promotes tranquility.