design / talks
Design influences behaviour and I’m on a mission to share what I’ve learned about the physical and emotional effects of interior design.
Use of space, colour choice, and being surrounded by beauty are the building blocks for creating spaces that improve overall wellbeing. I believe that the homes we live in need to be places of comfort and joy – a sanctuary from the world where we have space to eat, gather, learn, create, and rest. I offer events, seminars, and other speaking engagements online and in person across Canada.
“join me online or in person and learn how to create your authentic home!”
Upcoming Events
Creating Sanctuary: Designing Your Home for Health & Wellness
Science shows that physical surroundings deeply affect emotions. Colours, patterns,
textures, furniture layout, and levels of light all have an impact on mood and behaviour.
Learn how the design of your home can be another tool in your search for health and equilibrium.
If you’re interested in having
me speak or do a workshop,
Past Events
Skill Builders: Transforming Your Home with CBC’s Loren McGinnis
Karen joined Loren McGinnis and Megan Golightly for an inspiring online discussion focusing on creating spaces of sanctuary and wellbeing. Karen discussed her seven principles for designing a home that nurtures and restores. She suggested that everyone analyze how they actually use their space to gather, eat, play learn, refresh, and rest. Rooms can then be organized and set up to create authentic spaces that lead to a richer and healthier life.
Talk Presented by the Calgary Public Library in Partnership with CBC Calgary
Library Talks: Designing for Health
The spaces we live and work in have a great affect on our behaviour. Karen spoke at five Calgary Public Library locations on how small changes in layout and organization can have powerful effects on health. The colour green, lighting, symmetry, soft edges and more have all been linked to an instinctive response on a deep biological level in our bodies. When we are aware of the physiological effects our environment can have, we can begin to create a home that nurtures and offers shelter.
Library Talks Series Presented by the Calgary Public Library
Hudson’s Bay: Designing for the New Modern
Karen was invited to be a featured speaker at the downtown Hudson Bay’s New Modern Gala. She discussed how modern design is personal and solution focused. Today it’s about creating spaces that contribute to healthy and joyful lives. The shifts in design now are toward warmer colours, organic textures, and furniture that creates an oasis of calm. The New Modern cultivates comfort and creates homes that are sanctuaries.
Talk Presented by Hudson’s Bay