We fully believe that good design is healthy design.
The materials that make up our buildings and our furnishings have a HUGE impact on human health. Over 90% of our time is being spent indoors, where contaminants are frequently 3 to 5 times higher inside than outside. This exposure increases our chances of cancer, obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Your home is more than an investment - it is a powerful contributor to your mental, emotional, and physical health.
Working with a wellness interior designer is an investment in your emotional, mental and physical well being. Thoughtfully crafted interiors have an incredible power to improve our sleep, concentration, moods and overall wellbeing. Our homes can be havens that nourish both mind and body when the right materials and elements are incorporated. For example, strategic use of natural light boosts vitamin D, while non-toxic paints and finishes reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. And when our surroundings support our health, we reap the benefits in the form of reduced stress, increased energy, improved sleep quality, and more.
Simply put - healthy homes just feel better.
Our goal is to help everyone live in a healthier home environment.
We don't want someone to have a health crisis before they start making changes to their home.
We believe that the spaces we occupy should serve to make us healthier and happier.
That we do not have to sacrifice beauty and style to have it be ethical and sustainable.
We believe that interior design should be an integration between the scientific and the holistic.
That your space can be designed for the way you live and the way you want to feel.
We believe in homes that are an extension of our souls, that nourish and provide us with the sanctuary we need and desire.
That the places in which we spend the most time must be intentionally and thoughtfully designed.
Catherine
and the IDS TEAM
Every furnishing, color, pillow and cushion we choose is our way of whispering, "This is just for you". Each element is thoughtfully chosen, not only to beautify your space but to resonate with your personal story and lifestyle. Designing isn't just our job; it's how we express our passion.
For us, design is a love language.
confessions of an interior designer
At the core of my design philosophy is a single, guiding mission: to create homes that serve as sanctuaries for the body, mind, and soul. Rooted in a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, my designs are more than just visually appealing—they are transformative experiences that elevate your well-being.
Inspired by the rich tapestry of cultures I've been fortunate to experience — both during my childhood and through my travels as an adult — I incorporate a holistic approach that takes cues from nature and global traditions. The result? Spaces that not only look stunning but also nourish your senses and align with your values and ethics.
With diverse experience spanning construction, architecture, and interior design, I've garnered invaluable insights into the materials and methods that make up our living spaces. This knowledge has fueled my advocacy for healthier and safer homes, driving me to be at the forefront of sustainable design innovation and healthy home design.
As the mother of three incredible sons — Henry, Oliver, and Noah— I understand all too well the importance of making mindful choices and healthier decisions. I don't just design spaces; I create environments where well-being thrives, for every generation.
Catherine Shuman
THINGS I'm INTO RIGHT NOW:
Iced brown sugar shake espresso no matter the temperature outside, adding just one more houseplant somewhere in our home, and a glass of wine in the garden while watching the boys play.
Competition among professionals, toxic chemicals in our homes, hustle culture, and homes that don't feel like you can live in them.
FOUNDEr, Principal interior DESIGNER:
THINGS i'm OVER:
Hi Friends!
Enneagram 1, nerdy as they come... I live for a shaken brown sugar espresso, a day spent gardening, and the joy on my client's faces as they see their new home.
Continuing education Hours
average healthy products used per project
consultations provided
design events this year
4
375
27
74
the experience
From our first meeting to the final walkthrough, our meticulous project management process ensures as stress free and seamless a process as possible. We want your experience to be insightful, collaborative and exciting!
We understand that design projects can be complex, which is why we set up a dedicated online portal, provide weekly updates, a project calendar, and additional tools to help guide you every step of the way. We also take the burden of logistics off your shoulders, managing your project from start to finish so you can enjoy the journey.
the expertise
We pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve, continuously updating our methods and material selections to reflect the latest scientific findings in interior design, health, and well-being.
Whether we are selecting low-VOC paints to improve air quality or harnessing the principles of biophilic design to bring nature's healing powers indoors, our choices are backed by data and substantiated research.
Catherine holds certifications in several areas beyond traditional interior design, including sustainable design, building biology, and materials science, ensuring that every recommendation we make serves a functional purpose beyond aesthetics.
the innovation
In our holistic approach, we fuse timeless design principles with cutting-edge innovations. We are committed to finding creative and groundbreaking solutions that suit your unique needs. Whether it's through smart home integration or sustainably sourced materials, we aim to be pioneers in wellness-centered design.
In choosing us, you're not just opting for an interior design firm—you're aligning yourself with a team of innovators, committed to revolutionizing the way we live and interact with our interior spaces for generations to come.
What makes us unique
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Wellness Interior Designer | Healthy Home Consultant Vegan Design Certified | The Intentional Home
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