Designing safe, healthy spaces amid and beyond the pandemic

Plants can create a more relaxing feel for your home.

Geographical boundaries have been broken due to the pandemic. These challenging times make us realize we are all connected in one world. What we do individually or collectively as a nation affects the rest of world and our depleting resources.

We continuously compromise our environment with our wasteful consumption and disregard of key issues like climate change and conservation of nature. In truth, our natural resources are extremely finite and without correction, humanity will need another planet by 2030 to sustain our survival.

To discuss these pressing issues in line with today’s need of future-proofing your living space, SM Development Corp. (SMDC) and Inquirer Property hosted an engaging webinar about world-class architecture and design amid the pandemic.

The discussion featured world-class interior and landscape designers who shared their insights on how design can affect how people will live during and after the pandemic.

Hosted by good friend Tim Yap, the international panelists included Michael Fiebrich, managing director of Michael Fiebrich Design Pte. Ltd; Adrian L. Norman, managing director, and Robert Laird Scott, project director of Adrian L. Norman Ltd.; and Kunio Iwata, managing director of KKS International Pte Ltd. I was the only local interior designer and had joined as Inquirer Property brand ambassador as well.

During the in-depth, informative discussion, the designers shared many important features they incorporated into their projects for SMDC. Keeping into consideration safety protocols, they have collectively shared the importance of creating excellent design with natural ventilation, outdoor plants and lush greenery and beautiful and well-curated furniture layouts. Here meanwhile are my key points on how to create a safe and healthy living space for this pandemic and beyond.

It’s always best to keep your space clean and tidy

Keep your house clean and tidy. Bacteria breeds in enclosed, dusty areas so clean your space daily with disinfectant solutions and spray anti-bacteria solutions to kill airborne germs.

Keep the space bright and cheerful. Sunshine keeps the bacteria away. Bright colors also add positive energy to a space. Use decorative items like throw pillows and paintings to add color to a space.

Repair all cracks and repaint. A fresh coat of paint enhances any space. If that is not possible, cover walls with decorative fabrics or framed family photos.

Designate work/study stations at home. It is important to create a defined space especially for those working at home during this quarantine as this will help you become more productive. Similarly, it is also crucial to have a study area so that kids can be more focused with their schoolwork.

Designate a space for work and study

Natural ventilation with the help of plants. Make sure that your living space has enough ventilation to remove stagnant air that may bring germs. Add indoor plants to create a more relaxed and outdoor feel to your space.

Disinfect the air you breathe. Bacteria and other germs circulate in the air through the A/C vents. Make sure to spray anti-bacterial solutions like BactaKleen to make sure the air is germ-free.

Support local furniture suppliers, artists. Because the local economy has been devastated due to the pandemic, we all need to help our local furniture suppliers and artisans whenever possible. It is a buyer’s market so scout for great furniture deals and artworks.

Infuse the space with good chi and positive vibes. Remember to do a mental check on your well-being so you could keep your space comfy and happy. Burn incenses and clear the air with reflective and healing meditations. Always remember to live a purposeful life and learn to conserve our natural resources. We can all do our share to make this a better world for our future family.

Ensure that your living space has natural light and ventilation.