Older homes are desirable for their historic charm and established neighborhoods, but when it comes to amenities that promote health and overall wellbeing, your 1930s Tudor may be lacking. Through strategic remodeling, these older homes can be updated to meet contemporary wellness needs, whether it’s more windows to increase natural light, a reimagined kitchen that encourages cooking balanced meals, or smart features that make day-to-day life
a little easier.
Natural light is known to improve our mood and promote healthy sleep-wake cycles—not to mention increase visibility, reducing falls and injuries. “Consider enhancements and updates that optimize lighting in older homes,” says Christine Marvin, chief marketing and experience officer for Marvin. “For example, adding interior windows in renovations can fit seamlessly with a more contemporary look and increase natural light.”
Smart home features make our lives a little easier by putting everyday tasks on autopilot, including monitoring and improving our health. Think: air quality sensors that measure and alert you to potentially harmful pollutants in your home, thermostats that adjust the temperature of your home for optimal comfort, and circadian lighting that syncs up with your body’s natural cycles. There are even refrigerators that can remind you when it’s time to stock up on your favorite healthy foods, or windows and doors that can operate at the push of a button, “enhancing accessibility and convenience,” says Marvin.
Turn your primary bedroom suite into a spa-like sanctuary where you can rest and recharge. In-home luxuries can include rainfall showers, steam generators, heated towel racks, and soaking tubs, as well as heated floors for comfort, says Pam Clausen, business promotion coordinator for Plekkenpol Builders.
In-home gyms make exercise equipment more accessible and create a comfortable workout environment, encouraging you to move your body more regularly and keeping you on task when you do. “A lot of homeowners are able to repurpose an existing room to allow for a treadmill, elliptical, and free weights,” says Ryan Tyler, a project manager for Plekkenpol Builders. Or, “if they have unfinished space in the basement, we can create a workout room that includes rubber flooring, wall mirrors, and entertainment features like built-in speakers or wall-mounted TVs.”
Proper air flow and ventilation are key to removing stale, polluted air, controlling humidity, and increasing energy efficiency. “When modernizing older homes, homeowners should aim to balance aesthetics with functionality,” says Marvin. “Windows play a major role in ventilation, so it’s important to consider styles that promote airflow and contribute to maintaining or regulating the temperature of your home.”
Refreshing your kitchen may be all it takes to re-energize your love for cooking. New appliances—such as steam ovens, air fryers, and juicers—can change the way you store and cook your food, while a functional layout and proper organization take the stress out of meal prep, no matter if you’re cooking for one or a crowd. “I’ve had several homeowners share that they enjoy spending time in their new kitchen so much more that they have found themselves cooking healthy meals when they would have otherwise eaten out or gotten delivery,” says Tyler. “Items like new appliances, adding a walk-in pantry, or incorporating built-in storage solutions to the cabinetry are all ways to make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable.”
If you live in a particularly noisy area, soundproofing your home can have a significant impact on your health. Noise pollution has been linked to stress, sleep disruption, and even cardiovascular risks like high blood pressure. Filter out the noise with materials like acoustic panels and caulk, floor coverings, and dual-pane windows.
Spending time outside has numerous health benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to boosting your immune system and cognitive function. Bonus: You can reap these benefits from the comfort of your own backyard. “Creating more enjoyable outdoor spaces will naturally cause you to spend more time outside,” says Tyler. “Adding or remodeling an existing deck, screened-in porch, sunroom, patio, or outdoor kitchen are all ways to get out of the house. You may also consider outdoor workout spaces, like a basketball court, pickleball court, or swimming pool, to name a few.”
Choosing the right paint color for your home can be overwhelming. With endless shades and finishes available, it’s easy to make mistakes that lead to regret later. Here, Jean Haukaas, Hirshfield's Design Resource Showroom manager, shares some of the most common paint color mistakes homeowners make — and how to avoid them.
Spring is the ideal time for a fresh start — especially when it comes to your home. Whether it’s through thoughtful decluttering or permanent design changes, transforming your home can be a powerful step toward creating a streamlined sanctuary that supports your overall health and wellbeing.
“Keeping your home clutter-free and organized creates a peaceful and functional space, reducing stress and making daily tasks easier,” says Kari Campbell, founder and principal designer at Kari Campbell Interiors. “Plus, it saves time when you know exactly where to find what you need. It’s all about creating a space that feels good to live in.”
Here, Twin Cities home professionals offer their tips to transform your space — and your mind.
.png)
Spring is here, bringing longer days and fresh opportunities to enjoy your home. But with seasonal changes, it’s essential to ensure that your space stays as beautiful and healthy as the day your renovation was completed. Use this checklist to protect your investment and keep your home in tip-top shape this spring.
