5 Common Home Design Mistakes That Can Harm Your Health

Designing your home can be a challenge, as you need to balance your tastes and budget. However, some design decisions could actually be detrimental to your health. Did you know that?

We consulted with design experts to uncover the home design choices that are most likely to harm your health and how to steer clear of these pitfalls.

Allergenic Bedding

Marisa Bettencourt, the founder and principal designer at North + Fair Interior Design, highlights the importance of considering allergies when making design choices for your home. One major allergy trigger? Inappropriate bedding.

“Fluffy down comforters are quite popular, but they can also trigger allergies,” Bettencourt notes. “Opt for a chic comforter with a down-alternative fill and layer it with a thick, woven throw blanket to achieve the same full, inviting look that makes you want to sink into bed.”

The Wrong Artificial Lighting

Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood, but it also contributes to creating a healthy environment. It's important to remember that not all rooms should be treated the same when it comes to lighting.

For living rooms, bedrooms, and offices, Bettencourt recommends trying the light layering technique. "Select a warm-toned central pendant light or flush mount, ideally one with a dimmer, and add a few accent lights like table and floor lamps," she suggests.

The right lighting in your home is crucial before bed, according to Mollie Eastman, sleep expert and founder of Sleep Is a Skill. "Switching to warmer, dimmable lights (avoiding blue light) in the evening mimics the natural sunset, preparing our body for sleep and encouraging the release of sleep-promoting hormones." Proper lighting can indeed enhance your sleep and, as a result, improve your health.

Sheer Window Treatments

While light and airy window coverings may look stylish in the bedroom, they can let in too much light, potentially interfering with your sleep.

"Even something as simple as letting too much light into your bedroom at night can disrupt your circadian rhythm, affecting your mood, blood pressure, and even hormones," Bettencourt explains. "Instead, opt for a heavier, light-blocking curtain to block outside light and reduce noise, promoting a more restful sleep."

Products That Release VOCs

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted from various household products, impacting the air quality in your home and, consequently, your lung health.

"The first piece of advice I give my clients when selecting finishes and furniture is to ensure they are VOC-free," says Jessica Vegliacich of J Layne Designs and a resident of the biophilic community Serenbe. "You’d be surprised at how many everyday products and materials, such as paint, fabrics, composite wood, plastics, and metal finishes, release VOCs."

Eastman emphasizes the importance of improving the air quality in your home, which also supports a better night's sleep. "Good ventilation and using air purifiers can reduce sleep disturbances caused by pollutants or allergens," she says. "This also includes addressing issues like mold, VOCs, and more, which significantly affect air quality."

No Outdoor Living Areas

Spending time outdoors offers numerous health benefits, such as promoting physical activity and enhancing concentration. Yet, with more people working from home, many are not getting enough outdoor time. This is where outdoor living spaces come into play.

"Creating outdoor spaces allows us to step outside, get some fresh air, and enjoy the natural surroundings," says Vegliacich.