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Every year, I choose a word that feels aligned with where I am, what I need, and the intention I want to carry forward. For 2025, that word is 'Sanctuary.'
This is a concept that's always resonated deeply with me personally and professionally, but it’s a yearning I’ve seen echoed in the world around me of late.
In terms of design, 'sanctuary' represents spaces that nourish and center us—places we've crafted with intentionality to allow us to breathe deeply, connect with our true selves and with each other, and let the weight of the world melt away.
When designing spaces that embody sanctuary, both for my clients and myself, I take several specifics into consideration. Read on to discover these unique ideas.
Embracing Nature: The Ultimate Sanctuary
Imagine standing in an outdoor environment where every breath fills your lungs with fresh air, and the sights and sounds of nature invite calm. Sanctuary begins with a connection to the earth, whether it’s through large windows framing lush greenery, an outdoor patio that blends seamlessly with the landscape, or a garden path that winds into a meditative maze.
For one client, we incorporated a beautifully designed labyrinth—a space to walk, reflect, and let the repetition of steps bring clarity and calm. The result was a retreat that spoke to both body and soul.
Personal Retreats: Bedrooms as Sacred Spaces
In our homes, the bedroom should serve as a true haven. It’s where you begin and end each day, making it a natural sanctuary within your sanctuary. When I design bedrooms, I prioritize comfort, serenity, and individuality.
For more inspiration on creating your own restful retreat, check out this blog post on sanctuary bedroom design. From soft textures and calming palettes to layers of light and cozy seating areas, the details come together to make this space your ultimate escape.
Creative Sanctuaries: Spaces for Reflection and Expression
Creativity thrives in spaces designed for it. Whether it’s an art studio tucked into the corner of a property or a small nook within your home, having a place to retreat and create is essential.
For one client, we transformed an outbuilding into a studio where they could paint, journal, and simply enjoy a few moments of quiet. For another, it was a music room complete with instruments, a recording setup, and a kitchenette—a harmonious sanctuary for inspiration to strike at any moment.
Kitchens: The Heart of Connection
A sanctuary isn’t just about solitude; it’s also about connection. The kitchen is a place where families and friends come together to nourish their bodies and their relationships.
One of my favorite recent projects involved designing a kitchen nook—a cozy, sunlit corner filled with inviting textures and natural light. It became a gathering spot where loved ones could connect over meals, coffee, or casual conversation, each moment recharging the bonds that sustain them. Tell me that isn’t a sanctuary space!
Living with all the Senses
True sanctuary engages every sense. A soft throw to wrap around your shoulders, the glow of a fireplace on a chilly evening, or the scent of a favorite candle burning gently in the background—all of these elements come together to create a space that soothes and supports.
Designing Your Sanctuary
Sanctuary isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s deeply personal, evolving from what you need to feel grounded, rejuvenated, and at peace. For some, it’s a plush reading nook; for others, it’s a music-filled space or a garden brimming with life.
Whatever sanctuary means to you, it’s worth the time and investment to create. After all, our homes are where our lives unfold—they should support us, inspire us, and give us the space to simply be.
Let’s design the retreat you’ve always dreamed of. Contact us today to get started.
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