Are there ways to bring the outdoors inside?
Indoor plants and greenery have become a popular interior design trend over the last few years, whether in our homes, working spaces or in more communal areas such as shopping malls, with proof that besides the aesthetic qualities, plants bring a number of benefits to our environment and lifestyle. This is a design feature we have used across our various One&Only resorts, including the authentic Mediterranean restaurant Olives at One&Only Royal Mirage, where namesake green olive trees surrounded by a palette of whitewashed walls and slat floors were introduced within the interior, evoking a fresh feel and reference to the French Riviera. Interior ideas can range from the more extravagant green wall and roof designs, to even just a small desk plant for a simpler way to bring greenery into a home and improve both productivity and happiness. Some of my favourite indoor plants for bringing positive energy into the home include Lucky Bamboos, Peace Lilies, Aloe Vera and orchids. Most of these plants are considered to bring luck in health, as well as give off a pleasant aroma which can stimulate energy, whilst also being aesthetically pleasing.

Can you share any advice on how to design a dynamic space to work?
Identify what is needed for you to work and find a corner in one of the rooms of your home which allows access to everything you need. If you are using a dining chair, make some adjustments to suit your working from home lifestyle by adding casters to raise the height if required, and cushions to support your lower back. The location you chose for your home office should be in a quiet area, ideally with some privacy, that allows for a view and natural light, as both of these will have an impact on your physical and mental wellbeing, in turn allowing the work to be more productive. These are factors we take into consideration when designing the guest rooms and meeting spaces at our various One&Only resorts, so that our guests have access to a comfortable and inspiring workspace should they wish to use it during their stay.

How can I design my environment to encourage my kids to be creative?
Children need a colourful and fun space for learning, as well as for playtime and creativity. There should always be a clear division of space for these different activities. The studying area should be functional with a large desk and chair, allowing for multiple books to be opened. As for the activity area, a low table and chairs as well as a floor mat should be provided, allowing children to be creative with arts and crafts, and develop their hobbies as well as practice their favourite activities and games. The room colour palette should consist of a neutral wall colour which can then be complemented by colourful and bright posters, world maps, stickers, alphabet and number charts, bright accessories and accent furniture; similar to our KidsOnly clubs which are full of thoughtful touches to create an imaginative space to inspire young minds.

When designing spaces for children to learn and play, it is also important to differentiate between ages. For younger children, the space should be considered as the “Creative & Active” room; a multi-functional, open and inviting area, different to the traditional nursery or school concepts. The space should encourage young children to develop their imagination and skills in an intuitive way. Here are some suggestions on how to create this, inspired by our KidsOnly clubs:
- Sweet dreams: Provide a quiet area and place for children to nap. Build a small indoor tent with some bed sheets and a rope.
- Dirty hands: An area dedicated for hobbies. This area should allow for activities such as expressive arts, sensory playing, mud science and nature discovery.
- Creative expression: This creative area can be created around a chalk board and child-friendly furniture, or with a projector connected to a computer, to project geometric shapes and letters onto the wall, which little ones can follow or move around the wall or floor surface.

As for older children, I would also recommend adding a space for "physical and mental conditioning” plus “movement skills”. You can do this by:
- Creating a small area dedicated to yoga and relaxation.
- Making space for sport classes and playful competitions. If the space is limited and there are no outdoor areas available, this can also be achieved through a game console and a screen or projector.

Designing Your Home