Every great interior starts with clear intentions. The philosophy of “intentional design” considers the user’s interactions at every point in the design process, and it has become a guiding principle for a wide range of subjects, from products and technology, to our homes. As a seasoned designer, I have come to appreciate the transformative power of intentional design, which goes beyond superficial adornment to spaces that resonate with the homeowner on a deeper level.
When translated into interiors, this approach to design is rooted in several fundamental pillars, and each one aims to evoke a specific mood, fostering a sense of harmony and enhancing the overall experience of the home.
Colour theory stands as one of the cornerstones of a great interior, with the proven power to elicit immediate emotions and a deliberate ambiance. Don’t be fooled, the right ambiance doesn’t happen by chance. By means of careful selection and strategic placement, colours can influence emotions, perceptions and even the behaviors of the user. Many of my interiors favour soft blends and gradations of hues, with added accents to create a subtle yet strong visual impact. The outcome is a home infused with a sense of airiness and tranquility.
Materiality and texture serve as another cornerstone of intentional design, adding depth, richness and tactile allure to every room they touch. I strive to craft spaces that are both aspirational and visually soothing, juxtaposing hard and soft surface finishes to create dynamic contrasts. Incorporating fluid, organic patterns and natural materials such as wood, stone and textiles adds layers of warmth and authenticity. By embracing the inherent beauty of organic materials, we forge connections to the natural world, grounding ourselves in a space that feels innately comforting and rejuvenating.
Shape and lighting emerge as pivotal elements in the intentional interior, each playing a vital role in sculpting space and atmosphere. Lighting, in particular, holds sway over the ambiance of a room, imbuing it with warmth, drama and depth. Through the interplay of fluid lines and natural illumination, we shape spaces that are both dynamic and serene, balanced and harmonious. By intermixing these elements with a keen understanding of function and utility, we create homes that not only dazzle the eye but also nurture the soul.
In essence, intentional design is about more than just creating beautiful spaces; it’s about crafting environments that elevate the human experience. By harmonizing colour, texture, shape and light with a deep sense of purpose, you can unlock the true potential of every space, transforming mere structures into sanctuaries of inspiration and solace. Whether it’s a cozy retreat or a sprawling residence, intentional design results in homes that are not only visually stunning but functional and healing to the soul.
In the hands of a skilled designer, intentional design becomes a powerful tool that helps to shape the way we live, work and interact with our homes as well as the world around us. It is a philosophy rooted in mindfulness, creativity and a profound respect for the innate beauty of our surroundings. And it is through this lens that I approach every interior, endeavoring to design in a way that is not just aesthetically pleasing, but meaningful and transformative for the end user as well. A room is never just a room, but something to be experienced in more ways than just one. If you’re designing your own space, dig deep and start by defining how you want to feel in your home. Only then will the rest of the space come together, both functionally and beautifully.
_________
About Jessica Cinnamon
Jessica Cinnamon is the award winning Principal Designer and founder of Toronto based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc. The firm is a multi-disciplinary design company that has become known for creating stylish and well curated interiors. They provide complete bespoke residential design services throughout Toronto Ontario, the GTA, Cottage Country, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
