Designing for Wellness: Home Features That Nourish Mind and Body
Creating inspired spaces for relaxation, health and peace
At Stonewood, we’ve always believed that a well-designed home does more than just look good, it should feel good too. And lately, we’ve seen a growing trend: our clients are building homes that promote wellness from the inside out. From Scandinavian-style saunas to air systems that mimic mountain air, health-focused features are becoming as important as high-end finishes. Here’s a look at what’s trending and what we’re integrating into today’s wellness-forward homes.
Saunas: The Classic, Reimagined
Minnesotans have long appreciated a good sauna, and they’re hotter than ever (literally and figuratively). Whether it’s a traditional wood-burning sauna or a sleek, modern infrared version, adding a sauna to your home offers proven benefits for stress relief, circulation, and recovery. Bonus: many clients are pairing them with red light therapy panels, great for inflammation and muscle recovery.
Cold Plunge Tubs: Not for the Faint of Heart
On the other end of the temperature spectrum, cold plunges have taken off. It’s an acquired taste, but once you’re hooked, you’re hooked. The invigorating shock of a cold plunge is said to boost circulation, immune function, and mental clarity perfect for Minnesotans who don’t mind a little chill.
Steam, Soak, and Massage
We’re designing more homes with steam showers and even full steam rooms, providing spa-level relaxation right at home. Dedicated massage rooms are also on the rise, quiet, calming spaces with built-in speakers, dimmable lighting, and storage for gear and linens.
Hot Tubs: Tried and True
Still a staple, hot tubs are evolving. Today’s models come with better insulation, built-in lighting, and ergonomic seating. Whether sunk into a deck with a lake view or tucked beside a sauna cabin, they’re a perfect complement to any wellness routine.
Salt Rooms: A Niche Luxury
Salt therapy or “halotherapy” has started to show up in a few of our custom projects. These rooms use dry salt air to potentially improve respiratory health and skin clarity. While not as mainstream, for those with allergies or asthma, it’s worth considering.
Whole-Home Wellness Systems
Wellness isn’t just about amenities it’s in the air and water too. Many of our clients are opting for:
- Whole-house reverse osmosis (RO) systems for ultra-purified drinking and bathing water;
- HEPA-level air filtration and air exchange systems for healthier indoor air;
- Low-toxin materials, like clay or limestone wall finishes, and hard surfaces (like wood and tile) that promote cleanliness and reduce allergens;
- Human-centric lighting that mimics the sun’s natural rhythms, shifting color temperature throughout the day to support better sleep and mood.
Natural Wellness, Built In: These features aren’t just for luxury anymore they’re becoming essential for families focused on long-term health. And as with all good design, the key is integration. A wellness-forward home should feel natural, not clinical. Seamless, not separate. Whether it’s a hidden steam generator or a cozy sauna with a lake view, the goal is to create spaces that recharge and restore. If you’re designing a home and want to explore wellness features, let’s talk. We love helping families build homes that are as healthy as they are beautiful.