Never meet your heroes
What went wrong when I finally snuck a peek into my dream house
When I meet with new clients for the first time, we always talk about what’s working and what’s not in their space—especially if it's a renovation. We discuss their needs, wants, quirks, lifestyle patterns, and how they want their space to feel. But what often surprises people is when we start talking about the science behind great design.
Sometimes, one person in the household is completely “all in” on hiring a professional Interior Designer, while the other is a little more skeptical. Sound familiar?
The science of interior design
During the pandemic, I dove deep into studying the science of design,—and what I found completely transformed the way I approach my work. I explored concepts like Neuro-Aesthetics, Salutogenic design, and Biophilic principles (don’t worry, I’ll keep the jargon to a minimum). Here's the simple truth: when you see something you perceive to be beautiful, your brain releases serotonin—those happy little chemicals that make you feel good. Your environment can literally change your mood, your stress levels, and even your ability to focus or relax. There’s a scientific reason you like what you like.
And yes, the opposite is also true: when you’re surrounded by a space that feels chaotic, outdated, or uninspiring, your body and brain respond accordingly. This is more than just aesthetics—it’s chemistry.
Let me tell you a little story.
If you follow me on Instagram, you may have caught my mild rant about a house I’ve been low-key obsessed with since childhood. It’s this gorgeous property I’ve admired for years—watching its stunning exterior evolve over time. From the outside, it was chef’s kiss: elegant, iconic, and the kind of home that inspires daydreams. I’ve watched it transform over decades, waiting for the day it would hit the market so I could finally peek inside.
That day came. I clicked the listing. I squealed. And then… heartbreak.
Cue the record scratch.
It was a total “carpet doesn’t match the drapes” situation. Or to keep it PG—“never meet your heroes.” The interior felt disjointed, confused, and sadly, like an interior design professional hadn’t been involved at all. My design-loving heart actually hurt.
I was crushed.
Because the truth is, when form doesn’t follow function—or feeling—the whole experience of a space falls flat. That’s where the science of design becomes so important.
Good design is more than just pretty furniture and Pinterest boards. It’s about intentional choices that affect how you live, how you feel, and how you function every single day. That’s where Neuro-Aesthetics and the science of space come in.
Design is powerful
These principles aren’t just for hospitals or commercial buildings either. We’re talking about your kitchen, your bedroom, your bathroom—the everyday environments where life actually happens. Imagine waking up in a space that’s designed to energize you, cook in a kitchen that inspires creativity and calm, or retreat to a bathroom that restores your nervous system after a long day. This is design that works with your biology, not against it.
When clients tell me, “I don’t know what it is, but I just feel better in this room,”—that’s the magic of combining art with science. It’s not just about taste. It’s about transformation.
If you're someone who’s on the fence about hiring a designer—or if you’re partnered with someone who’s skeptical—I totally get it. Investing in your home is a big deal. But what if I told you that the value of thoughtful, science-backed design goes way beyond resale?
It’s about mental clarity. It’s about emotional wellness. It’s about creating a life-giving, joy-bringing, energy-restoring home.
Design should serve you, inspire you, and elevate your everyday. When it’s done right, it feels effortless—but make no mistake, it’s anything but accidental.
Still wondering if hiring an interior designer is worth It?
If you're sitting on the fence about hiring a designer—or if someone in your home needs a little nudge—I get it. But design that’s rooted in neuroscience and human wellness? That’s not just a luxury—it’s a long-term investment in how you feel every day.
We're talking about reduced stress, better sleep, more harmony, more focus, and yes… even more joy.
Curious what that could look like in your home?
Whether you're dreaming of a full-scale renovation or are just dipping your toes into reimagining your space, I’d love to help you explore what’s possible when beauty meets brain science.
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Because joy isn’t just a bonus in your home—it should be the blueprint.