We spoke to Interior Designer Melissa Danielle Smith of Elysian Co. Studios, who in 2013 combined her dedication to holistic health, influenced by her background in yoga teaching, with her passion for interior design. Melissa creates spaces that not only look phenomenal and function seamlessly but also positively impact health & well-being.
TRANSCENDING TRENDS
Slow interiors go hand-in-hand with slow living, and it could be said that one cannot be achieved without the other. A philosophy that is here to stay, slow living encourages you to pause and carefully contemplate th decisions you are making when curating your project. It is a mindset that pushes you to consider the environmental impact of your choices, how they make you feel and in turn create a space that seamlessly blends style, function and balanced living.
We spoke to Interior Designer Melissa Danielle Smith of Elysian Co. Studios, who in 2013 combined her dedication to holistic health, influenced by her background in yoga teaching, with her passion for interior design. Melissa creates spaces that not only look phenomenal and function seamlessly but also positively impact health & well-being.
HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE SLOW INTERIORS?
The word “slow” refers to balancing the pace at which we encounter the world. The slow design movement is broad and encompasses several principles. The principle that resonates the most with me is how slow interior design takes into account deeper human well-being and the findings of positive psychology. My favourite definition is “a mindset whereby you curate a more meaningful and conscious lifestyle, be that through the products you purchase, the activities you engage in or the relationships you nurture.” (Slow Living LDN)
HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK SLOW INTERIORS AND SLOW LIVING IS IN TODAY’S SOCIETY?
In today’s society, many people are focused on getting things done as quickly as possible so they can move on to the next thing. Therefore these two principles are more important now than ever before. Slow design encourages the use of natural materials, local, small scale production of goods and a general attitude of quality over quantity. It encourages rest, self-care and balance while slow interiors sets the stage for this lifestyle to take place.
“This way of living encourages calmness, slowing down and mindfulness. It focuses on doing things better, not faster.”
WHAT KEY FACTORS DO YOU CONSIDER WHEN PRACTICING INTERIOR DESIGN?
First and foremost I think about the people using the space; how the design can best serve them and what design choices will improve their lives both from a practical and a well-being perspective. Secondly, I think about space planning and how to make the interior function optimally. I then think about the overall aesthetic. Good interior design combines all of these components and the key to creating a well-designed interior is to consider these elements together, at all times.
“I encourage my clients to make design choices that create serene, calming and cohesive environments.”
WHAT PART CAN WOOD FLOORS PLAY IN THIS ENDURING INTERIOR CONCEPT?
Wood has a very grounding and warm energy making a space feel comforting and welcoming. Maintaining a connection with nature through the use of wooden floors aligns with the trends biophilic design principles. High-quality wood floors are incredibly durable and can withstand the test of time if maintained correctly, making them a sustainable choice and helping to minimise your environmental impact.
TELL US ABOUT A PROJECT WHERE YOU HAVE UTILISED TED TODD FLOORING
My favourite application was an entire house using Furrow chevron, finished with a matt black trim and plank border. Using the same wooden floor throughout keeps the space feeling cohesive. We did the entire ground floor, the staircase with a bullnose trim, hand finished to complement the floor, and continued into every bedroom to create an elevated aesthetic.
DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR SOMEONE CREATING THEIR OWN SLOW INTERIOR?
Focus on sustainable, meaningful choices. It’s about creating a space that reflects your values and contributes positively to your health and the eco-system. My top tips to achieve this are: mindful material selection, sustainable furnishings, minimalism and decluttering, implementing natural elements and embracing the slow living philosophy.
“Interior design has an important role to play in relation to health and wellbeing now more than ever.”
Our dedicated Specification Consultant, worked closely with Melissa Danielle Smith to specify the perfect floor for residential projects. To discuss your latest project get in touch by calling 01925 283 000.
To find out more about Elysian Co. Studios follow them @elysianco.studios, email design@elysiancostudios.com or visit www.elysiancostudios.com,
Photography Credit: Kathryn Taylor Photography & Elysian Co. Studios