Life and Leisure

Former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill famously said, “We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us.” While he referred to government chambers, the idea applies at home—our surroundings shape how we feel and function.

We spend nearly 18 hours a day at home.^{Disclosure 1}  And while many of us upgrade our houses for comfort or style, thoughtful improvements can also support long-term health. At-home fitness and recovery spaces make healthy habits easier to maintain, and new technologies can improve sleep, air quality, and overall wellness.

If you want your home to support your well-being, here are a few systems to invest in.

Designers are increasingly optimizing homes to support relaxation and focus. Features that incorporate natural elements can reduce stress, improve mood, and support cognitive function.

• Natured-inspired design (biophilic design). The concept of biophilic design is derived from the idea that humans need to connect with nature. Research shows that spending time in nature or even viewing images of natural scenes can reduce stress. Another study found that introducing plants into a barren office increased productivity by 15%.^{Disclosure 4} The first step to implementing biophilic design is to feature elements of nature in your home, using plants, living walls, expansive windows with scenic views, and water features.
• Natural materials, colors, and textures. Another way to tap into biophilic design is to use building materials and finishes that mimic the designs and textures found in nature, like stone, wood, and linen. Studies show this design choice provides a soothing effect and lowers stress levels.^{Disclosure 4}
  
• Advanced lighting. Besides incorporating more natural light into their homes, homeowners are increasingly turning to circadian lighting systems that support the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, helping improve mood, productivity, and sleep. The approach uses AI and smart controls to automatically adjust color temperature and intensity at specific times of the day.^{Disclosure 5}
  
• Create a garden. This goes beyond growing food. Tending a garden can help you manage stress, improve neuroplasticity, make social connections, and gain a deeper sense of purpose.^{Disclosure 6} And while this doesn’t mean you need to do your own lawncare and landscaping, homeowners could consider designating a special garden to maintain with family.

Considering the ROI of thoughtful home design

Investing in home upgrades that promote health and longevity can help you create a sanctuary where you can be your best self, every day. The biggest return you’ll see may be your overall improved health.

If you’re looking for those upgrades to bring monetary value, remember that real estate, like any investment, has no guaranteed return. Efficiency upgrades like lighting and air purification systems can potentially pay off through reduced utility costs. However, very personal upgrades—including niche recovery rooms, simulators, and biophilic design—can be difficult to value and may not generate a return, especially if they don’t add square footage or desirable features that comparable properties in your neighborhood have.

Your Truist Wealth advisor and team can help you project the impact that spending on home upgrades may have on your total financial plan. Ultimately, the fulfillment these remodels bring to daily life may outweigh the eventual return on investment.