North Bay Woman Magazine
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1259780
14 NORTH BAY WOMAN S P R I N G | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0 "By caring for a space, you're nur- turing yourself," she explains. Sometimes people add things to a home that don't fit well and create a busy environment that's jarring. Crys- tals hanging over a space to activate energy might not work, for instance, because they're unusual in a western home. Hanging a crystal-pendant light is a better choice and has the same result. If you want to try feng shui, Ellison advises going slowly and doing a little bit each week to see how it feels. "A well-balanced feng shui space feels right," she says. Mirror-mirror Christine Malin, of Maison Interior Design in San Rafael, advises starting with color to create a pleasing envi- ronment. "Color is really, really important," she says, but cautions that vibrant colors should be limited to one wall. In a bedroom, cozy bedding and an area rug that's a little plush create a feeling of calmness, as does natural light. Placing a comfortable chair in a corner makes a restful space for a busy mother, when she needs some time to herself to read or relax. The addition of mirrors creates a flow of energy and movement throughout a home. When mirrors reflect the outdoors, they bring more natural light into a room, and they can capture views of tranquil outdoor environments. The best place for a mirror is a din- ing room, because it makes the room feel larger and more welcoming and adds a touch of glamor. In feng shui, a mirror is a water element, so when it's above a fireplace, it balances a room. Malin also likes mixing mirrors with photographs of artwork on a gallery wall and says, "It makes it feel less cluttered." She adds that it's important to make sure a mirror isn't too high or low and Left: A room that contains all the elements feels balanced and nurtures your sense of well being — wood (shelves, bamboo blinds), fire (lights, animal prints, silk pillows), Earth (plants, terracotta teapots), metal (teapot, accessories) and water (mirror, vase of flowers) suggests Jane Ellison. – Photography courtesy of Jane Ellison Design