Transcripts
1. Introduction: According to the
latest research, one third to one half
of us are introverts. Introverts have a
tendency to focus more on inner experiences such as their own feelings and
thoughts than the outer ones. However, introversion
is not shyness. Shyness is the fear
of negative judgment, while introversion is simply the preference for
less stimulation. This preference will often make the introvert seek solitude and low
stimulation environments. So how do you design
a home for someone who likes to be alone
and under stimulated? Hi. My name is Ana Arco, and I'm well licensed architect. I've worked for over a decade
as an in house architect, and currently I'm running my own little design studio in the beautiful city
of Vienna Austria. My architectural design practice focuses on home design
and home well being. In my classes, I'm
sharing everything I know to help you create an environment
that makes you happier, healthier, and more creative. Why I hope you will
take away from this class is the
understanding that our homes are not just a
carefully curated collection of personal items, but places that can support and enhance our physical and
emotional well being. When we design them to cater
to our unique preferences, we create the environments that help us flourish and become the best
version of ourselves. By the end of this course, you'll have the practical skills to design spaces
within your home, that respect your
need for solitude, ignite your creativity, facilitate small gatherings
in a comfortable manner, and balance your sensory inputs with elements that
suit your senses. Whether you're an
introvert seeking to create a peaceful
home, A ambivert, striving to balance social
and solitude needs, or simply someone intrigued by thoughtful personality
based home design, this course is tailored
to meet your needs. There's no need for
prior design experience or specific tools. Just bring your enthusiasm
and willingness to explore the nuances
of introverted living. I hope you're excited
about this class, so let's get started.
2. Class Project: Class project. And know how you guys love the
attached worksheets. For this class, I've created
a file quiz for you. For a class project, I invite you to embark on a
journey of self discovery. Start by completing
the free quiz, how introverted are you that you will find in the
class project section. This will lead to a personalized home design suggestion plan, tailored to reflect your
unique level of introversion. Your living space should
be a reflection of view, and this project is designed to help you
achieve just that. In the project gallery section, I encourage you to share
your introverted persona. This is a space where you
can express yourself and connect with others who
may share similar traits. You may also share a
photo of one item or a space in your home that suits your needs
for introversion. Also, in addition
to the results, pay careful attention to the questions and
answers that you give. Very few people answer
with As or all Bs. The idea of the
quiz is to examine your own answers and
decide what they say about you and how
you want to move forward now that you understand
yourself a little better. What might you change about your space to suit your
introverted needs? In the class project, I encourage you to share one simple yet highly
effective step that you will take from now on to create
your introverted heaven. I have to interrupt my own video and say that after I
finished filming it, I decided to expand the worksheet with
some extra exercises. Meaning that if you
scroll down in the PDF, you will see that
each of the lessons has three reflection exercises. The point of these
reflection exercises is to help you think a
little further of how you might be able to
implement the ideas from the class to your
particular circumstances. This will help you just
move the needle a little further into the design of your own home. I hope they help. I think they're super useful, and I hope you get great
results with them. Enjoy filling out the worksheet, and let me know what
you think about it. And now, let's move to our
last lesson. Final thoughts.
3. A Space to Be Alone: For the first lesson, I would like to go into
what introverts are, the concept of loneliness, and what type of room support
the desire to be a low. In her book, Qie, the power of introverts in a world
that can't stop talking. Susan Kaine highlights the unique qualities
of introverts that often go unnoticed in a society
that favors extroversion. Introverts who are naturally reflective and
introspective flourish in quiet the environments that foster deep thinking
and creativity. Unlike extroverts with draw energy from
social interactions, introverts need
solitude to recharge and gain profound self
awareness and insights. Research shows that
introverts brains respond differently to
dopamine compared to others, expanding their preference for
less stimulating settings. Solitude is not about avoiding social contact for introverts, but rather about connecting with the world in a deeper,
more meaningful way. In these quiet moments, they introspect, nurture
their creativity, and understand their emotions. This time alone enables them to interact with others
more authentically and compassionately
as they reflect on their values and
the relationships that are important to them. Has work highlights that introverts are not just
quiet individuals. They are powerhouses of
creativity and insight, making substantial contributions
to our collective world. What would a home for
an introvert look like? What design features
would help them thrive? The first design feature is to create an area in your home. You can dedicate
to a long time or at least time that is
undisturbed by others. Creating a space that
honors your need for solitude doesn't require
complete home makeover. It's about carving out a corner, a room, or even a niche
that fills entirely yours. There are some examples and hopefully one of them
sounds doable to you. A dedicated reading nook. Choose a quiet
corner of the house and furnish it with
a comfortable chair, good lighting, and
a small bookshelf to create a cosy reading nook. The attic hideaway,
transform an attic or a basement into a
personal hideaway with coffee furniture, soft bugs, and personal items that make the space feel
secure and private. The nature nook, integrate natural elements to create
a refreshing indoor oasis. Plants or a window with a scenic view can dramatically enhance your mental well being. A home office with a view. Design a home office that includes a desk facing a window, overlooking a garden
or a natural scenery, providing a serene backdrop
for work and thought. Art studio, convert a
spare room or a section of a room into an art studio
with adequate natural light, storage for art supplies, and an easel or art
table, garden retreat, create a peaceful garden
or balcony retreat, with comfortable seating, potted plants, and
privacy screens. The wall niche. This one is my favorite examples because it doesn't have to take
an entire role. But being in this protected
space on three sides, makes it feel like you
are in your own room. A nook under the
stairs, for example, can provide this a long time required without taking
a whole lot of space. A window nook, similarly, a window niche provides the same sense of
protection and intimacy, but the additional benefit
of light and a garden view. Installing a comfortable
window seat in a low traffic area
where people can sit, read, or gaze outside, makes the time alone a
pleasant one. The bathroom. The bathroom might not be the first thing
that comes to mind, but often in big families
with lots of kids, it's hard to find a t
or space to be alone. An elaborate bath tie routine might be the only time
and place to be alone. Adding a bath board
with a book or an iPad, having your favorite
beverage and a couple of scented candles can really set the mood for
your alone tile. Simple solutions like
a secluded wall nook, a curtain partition area, or even a well appointed
bathroom can serve as your personal escape for
introspection and relaxation. Understanding the value of solitude is crucial
for insurers. It's not merely
about being alone, but about creating a space that allows for self discovery
and emotional balance. Implementing this
concept at home involves integrating designated areas or elements that resonate
with your inner self, providing the slitude
necessary for personal growth. In the next lesson, a
space for creativity, we'll look at how the
time and space to be alone, support
creative expression.
4. A Space for Creativity: Although not all creative
people are introverts, many works of art known to man have resulted from deep
thought in solitude. And since solitude is something
that introverts ravel in, it's not a surprise
that they're also the creators of
extraordinary works of art. Being less influenced by societal expectations
and peer pressure, introverts are often
more likely to pursue novel and
unconventional ideas. This independent thinking leads to originality and innovation, hallmarks of creative word. Albert Einstein, Ludwig van
Betoven, and Vincent Bango, all celebrated for their
introverted nature, channel their deep introspection
and preference for solitude into revolutionary
achievements in their fields. Estin with his theories
over relativity, Betoven through
emotive compositions like the Mo Light Sonata, and angog with his
vivid emotional art such as the starry night. Their creative
output exemplifies how solitude can catalyze profile creativity
and innovation. In each case, the preference for solitude and depth
of focus enable them to develop ideas
and projects that resonate deeply with
people all over the world, driving innovation
and art forward. Designing a space for
creative expression at whole helps the internal
life of the introvert. I recommend this at
home because home is where we feel most
relaxed and comfortable, but you can absolutely find a creative space
outside your home too. The most important
thing is that it is yours whenever you feel the need to have
your personal time. As I mentioned in my class, home design for better habits, the items that we
keep in our proximity strongly influence our
habits and what we do. Creative space that looks inviting and is well
stocked with tools and supplies would greatly support the desire for creative
pursuits in solitude. A couple of examples
of such spaces are the artists sanctuary. A space with ample
natural light, inspiring visuals and
plenty of storage for art supplies creates
an environment that stimulates and supports
visual creativity. The writers then is a quiet, clutter free zone with a
comfortable writing setup and a selection of
books that support deep focus and the
flow of ideas. The musician's retreat is
a well insulted room that creates a peaceful space conducive to musical
experimentation. The gardener's corner can be the garden or green
corner at home. The act of shaping and creating a garden or taking
care of plants can be a creative outlet offering both side pological benefits and a sense of accomplishment. The technologist lamp and
the makers workspace. It's a well stopped
rule with tools and supplies necessary to create various works of
science and art. It's a creative hub
where innovators and artists can experiment and
bring their visions to life. The space is equipped
with everything from high tech gadgets and machinery to traditional
crafting materials, ensuring that no
matter the project, the necessary
resources are at hand. The seize, creating a space for creativity for introverts is
about more than just desire. It's about understanding and fostering the conditions
that enhance creativity, introspection, and
personal growth. These spaces are not
just physical locations, but sanctuaries that
respect and amplify the introverts natural
tendencies towards slitude, deep focus and creativity. Introverts don't just
enjoy the time alone. They also have their preferences when it comes to
socializing with people. In the next lesson, we'll
explore these spaces.
5. A Space for Small Gatherings: Far we've talked about
the desire to be alone and how the design of
our homes by support this. But what about meeting people? Do introverts have
preferences when it comes to designing
their gathering spaces? Introverts are often
misunderstood as preferring constant
solitude, but in reality, they also thrive in
environments that foster deep meaningful interactions
in smaller groups. This preface is not
about being antisocial, but about the quality
of social engagement. Recognizing and accommodating
this need can greatly enhance introvert psychological
and emotional well being. Creating a dedicated space for smaller gatherings can significantly impact
mental health, providing a sanctuary to
manage social energy and reduce the anxiety
that comes with larger, overwhelming
social settings. Such spaces allow introverts
to control the environments, minimizing over stimulation,
and maximizing comfort. Moreover, the quality of relationships can be
profoundly affected. Small intimate gatherings encourage genuine
connections and deeper conversations which are often more fulfilling
for introverts. By facilitating
these interactions. We not only respect the
introvert social preferences, but also contribute to stronger, more meaningful
relationships. What kind of design set up can support these
small gatherings? The cosy corner,
imagine transforming a nook in your home into
a warm welcoming space. This area can be designed
with cozy seating, soft lighting, and
warm colors to encourage relaxed
intimate gatherings. The ambience is key. Thin comfortable
couches, throw pillows, and ambient lighting to create a space that invites
deep conversations. Conversational cafe, replicate the casual value of a cafe right in
your living room. Arrange a small coffee
table and chairs and offer a selection of
beverages and stacks. The setting removes the
formality of a dining table, promoting spontaneous
and relaxed discussions in a comfortable,
inviting environment. The nature retreat, incorporate natural elements into
your gathering space. Indoor plants, window with a garden view can transform a room into a tranquil retreat. Nature's calming effect can
enhance social interactions, making them more enjoyable and less straining
for introverts. Small branch or
dinner gatherings. Hosting small parties allows for meaningful conversations
and personal connections, making them ideal
for introverts. A table for six with
comfortable seating is more than an adequate size for the sensitivities
of an introvert, at flowers and light
strings or perhaps candles, and you will create a
festive and intimate setting where introverts can engage deeply with a few people rather than feeling overwhelmed
by large crowds. These tables can also be in
the garden or the patio, having a beautiful scene
in the background. The Moroccan style
dinner party is also a very low effort
type of gathering. People essentially sit very
close together on the ground, on pillows, and carpets around a central table on
which food is served. It can be both in the
garden or indoors. Both setups feel very intimate and pleasant to
the introverted mind. To summarize by creating spaces designed for
small gatherings, we acknowledge and cater to the unique social
preferences of introverts. These settings that only support their mental health
and well being, but also enhance the quality of their relationships and
social satisfaction. Building upon the theme of creating nurturing
environments, our next lesson will focus
on comfortable furniture, where we'll explore
how the choice of furniture contributes to
the introverts needs.
6. Comfortable Furniture: So far we have
explored the spaces to be alone and the spaces
to be with others. In this lesson, I would like to discuss how the choices of furniture can contribute to
the introverted lifestyle. Specifically, I'd like
to focus on the role of comfortable furniture in
shaping these personal spaces, which is important
for anyone who prefers a more
reserved lifestyle. Comfortable furniture matters
because it facilitates a space where one can
truly relax and recharge. Given the sensory sensitivity
in common among introverts, the furniture chosen must
minimize sensory overload, offering a sanctuary that supports their mental
health and well being. How might you implement
comfortable furniture? It really depends on
the activity type. But I have found
that the cocoon like shape often feels very
soothing to the senses, both for a lone time and
for intimate conversations. If your favorite activity for
your lone time is reading, then you can design yourself the ultimate reading
chair that supports long hours of immersive reading and possibly an
occasional lapping. Look for chairs that are soft
and pleasant to the touch, but also chairs
that can adapt to your body's position
and proportions. Baring this with a
good reading lamp and proximity to bookshelves can create a perfect
secluded spot for literary exploration. If you don't have enough
space for a special chair, you can focus your
attention to the sofa. Focus on decorating it with soft pillows and covers
pleasant to the touch, providing an ideal
spot for unwinding. The sofa should
invite relaxation and offer enough space for
an introvert to lounge, read or engage in hobbies, making it a central piece for solitary leisure activities or intimate conversations for two. If not the chair or the sofa, perhaps the bedroom can
get the extra attention. This includes choosing the
right pillows, mattress types, and bedding materials that align with individual
preferences and needs. The Zen meditation corner. If you are trying to
create a corner where you can having a dedicated area for your meditation enhances
the introverts home by providing a space for
mindfulness practices. Cofortable, floor
cushions, mats, or specialized meditation chair can make the spacing
ting for introspection. The key is to choose
minimalistic furniture that supports a peaceful and
contemplative environment. The ergonomic workspace. If your activity during your
moments alone is creativity. Agonomic home office
setup is vital for introverts who work or
pursue hobbies in solitude. A customizable desk and
chair, enhanced posture, and reduce strain, fitting
individual bodies and needs. To conclude, the
thoughtful selection of furniture is integral to creating a living space that supports the introverts
need for comfort, solitude, and
personal expression. By choosing pieces
that align with their sensory sensitivities and preferences for tranquility, introverts can
cultivate environments that not only reflect
their personality, but also enhance their
overall quality of life. In the next lesson,
we'll explore another element that
can overstimulate the introvert and
how to adapt it to the introverted needs. Light.
7. Soft Ambient Lighting: Given the introverts
preference for quiet, minimally stimulating
environments, lighting isn't just a
matter of aesthetics. It's essential in creating
comfortable spaces, conducive of relaxation
and introspection. As I have mentioned
in other classes, soft lighting plays a significant role
in mood regulation, anxiety reduction, and
creating a calming atmosphere. Research indicates that
bright harsh lighting can amplify stress and discomfort while a more
subdued lighting scheme promotes a sense of well
being and tranquility. For introverts who may feel overstimulated by
their environment, being able to control and adapt the lighting system to
personal preferences can significantly
contribute to creating an environment that provides the right kind of stimulation. How might you
implement this idea? The best way to adapt the
lighting to your needs is a technique called
layering the light sources. When you design the
lighting for a room, don't stop at ambient
lighting alone. A single lighting source
is not enough and often cannot provide the right boot
for every required setting. Consider adding task and accent
lighting around the room. Task lighting is focused
lighting for specific tasks, and accent lighting highlights specific features in a room. For example, a desk
clamp is a task light and the light running on the
shelves is an accent light. Another element that you might consider incorporating
are dimmers. Dimers allow you to find
the right intensity of light for you at a
specific moment in time, instead of providing you with the same type of light
throughout the entire year. The best way to see this
layering technique in action is to look at the lighting
in five star hotel rooms. The ambient lighting is usually indirect and along the
edges of the room. This can be controlled
both by a panel in the corridor and a
panel by the bed. Other than this, you will see a standing glam by the sofa, a desk clam on the little table, and four lights by the bed
supporting various activities. All these lines not only
provide different intensities, but also can be focused on
specific areas in the room, spreading a much lower light
in the rest of the room. This ability to control
the light and adapt it to one's needs
and activities can soothe over stimulated
senses and create the right lighting environment for an introvert to flourish. A in the next lesson, we'll explore the class project.
8. Final Thoughts: Congratulations. You have made it to the end of the class. It's been an absolute
pleasure to guide you through the nuances of creating spaces that honor your
introverted date. Troughout our sessions,
we've explored various interior
design techniques tailored for
introverts in detail. We started by understanding the importance of
crafting quiet spaces, a sanctuary where you can
recharge and reflect in piece. We discussed the necessity of having spaces for
creative pursuits, how the spaces for
gathering should look like, the importance of
comfortable furniture, and how big able to control the lighting comforts
the introverted needs. One thing that I hope you
take away from this class is the understanding
that your space can and should reflect
your personality. Designing for introversion
isn't just about aesthetics, it's about creating environments
that nurture your soul, enhance your well
being and allow you to flourish in your
own unique way. If you've enjoyed this
class and found it useful, I would greatly appreciate it if you could leave a review, it tells the platform
that you liked my class, and it encourages other
students to discover my course. For those of you looking
to deepen your knowledge or explore other aspects
of interior design, I encourage you to check
out my class a calm home. I think you will enjoy it a lot. But also have a look
at my teacher page. I have some 20 classes in there that I think
you would like. Lastly, I invite
you to follow me on Skillshare and subscribe
to my YouTube channel. On YouTube, I share more videos about home
design and home well being, extending beyond what we've
covered in this class. It's a space for continuous
learning and inspiration, and I'd love you to be a part
of my growing community. You'll find more useful
links in the description. We are at the end. I'll
see you in the next class.
