Breathing Space: How Interior Design Can Transform Your Life

A symphony for the soul and an orchestra of aesthetic delight, Breathing Space by Joanna Thornbury invites us to reimagine our living environments as havens for well-being. This book transcends mere decoration; it delves into the profound connection between space and psychology, revealing how thoughtful design choices can cultivate a sense of calm, clarity, and inspiration.

From Cluttered Chaos to Mindful Minimalism:

Thornbury’s approach is refreshingly holistic. She understands that a home is more than just four walls and a roof; it’s a reflection of our inner selves and a stage for our daily lives. The book explores the impact of clutter, light, color, and texture on our mood and well-being.

Through stunning photography and practical advice, Thornbury guides readers through a journey of mindful decluttering. She encourages us to embrace minimalism not as a rigid set of rules but as a philosophy of intentionality. We learn to curate our belongings, choosing items that spark joy and meaning rather than accumulating unnecessary possessions.

Harnessing the Power of Light:

One of the most striking aspects of Breathing Space is its emphasis on natural light. Thornbury passionately advocates for maximizing daylight in our homes, recognizing its profound effect on our circadian rhythms and overall well-being. She offers insightful tips on window placement, mirror positioning, and using sheer curtains to diffuse harsh sunlight while inviting soft illumination into the interior.

The book delves into the nuances of artificial lighting as well. Thornbury demystifies different bulb types and color temperatures, explaining how to create a layered lighting scheme that enhances ambiance and functionality. She highlights the importance of task lighting for reading and workspaces, while also suggesting mood-setting lamps and dimmers to soften the atmosphere in the evenings.

Color as an Emotional Palette:

Breathing Space dedicates a significant chapter to exploring the psychology of color. Thornbury explains how different hues evoke specific emotions and can influence our energy levels and focus. She encourages readers to consider their personal preferences and the desired mood of each room when selecting paint colors.

For instance, she suggests calming blues and greens for bedrooms, energizing yellows and oranges for kitchens, and sophisticated neutrals for living areas. The book also includes insightful advice on using accent colors to add pops of personality and create visual interest within a space.

Beyond the Aesthetics: Cultivating Mindfulness:

Breathing Space goes beyond mere aesthetics, encouraging readers to cultivate mindfulness in their daily lives. Thornbury emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that invite reflection, relaxation, and connection. She suggests incorporating elements such as natural materials, plants, and comfortable seating to foster a sense of tranquility and grounding.

The book also explores the power of scent in transforming our mood. Thornbury recommends using essential oils, candles, and diffusers to create calming or uplifting aromas depending on the desired atmosphere.

Production Features:

Published by Kyle Books in 2019, Breathing Space is a visually stunning masterpiece. The book’s hardcover binding exudes quality and durability. Its pages are thick and luxurious, making it a pleasure to handle.

The photography throughout the book is exceptional, capturing the essence of serene and inspiring interiors. From minimalist Scandinavian spaces to bohemian-inspired retreats, the images showcase a diverse range of styles while highlighting Thornbury’s key principles.

The layout is clean and uncluttered, enhancing readability and allowing the reader to easily navigate through the chapters. Informative sidebars and pull-out quotes provide further insights and inspiration.

In Conclusion:

Breathing Space is more than just a home decor book; it’s a guide to mindful living. Joanna Thornbury invites us to consider our homes as sanctuaries, spaces that nourish our minds, bodies, and spirits. Through insightful text and breathtaking visuals, the book empowers readers to create environments that reflect their values and enhance their overall well-being.

Whether you are embarking on a full-scale renovation or simply looking for ways to refresh your living space, Breathing Space offers invaluable guidance and inspiration for creating a home that truly feels like a sanctuary.