WINTER, 2024
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Issue No. 10
Mental health
HOW TO INCORPORATE CURRENT TRENDS INTO YOUR LIVING ROOM WITHOUT CHANGING EVERYTHING
Winter cen ts on …
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Letter from the Editor
FOCUS MY 2 CENTS ON DESIGN EDITORIAL Mental Health
Personalization There is no time to not do what you love The Peter Pan Phenomenon and other tales of incomplete coming of age How to incorporate current trends into your living room without changing everything
BEHIND THE SCENES
This winter in the Land of Dochia
Letter from the Editor Dear readers, clients, friends, and followers, I have news! Celebrating a decade of design blogging, the eponymous My 2 Cents on Design, starting this year, is now a cherished editorial and part of the Land of Dochia magazine. It is hard to express the gratitude and humbleness with which I read the many ways our words and design work have touched your life. In 2014, I started My 2 Cents on design blog on WordPress and diligently wrote, sharing my experience as a designer, my knowledge, and the many ways my personal life and professional life intersected over the past twenty years. From interior design to lifestyle design, architecture to DIY projects, my decade in blogging embraced a kaleidoscope of styles and ideas. I emerged as an influential voice, recognized by industry and peers, offering not just great visual content but thoughtful commentary on the intersection of design, culture, and technology. The material evolved as the design established itself, and now we’ve launched this wonderful magazine that you’re reading now, showcasing our brand, design philosophy, and the many innovative ways we contribute to bettering the world around us. None of it could’ve been possible without the beginnings of blogging. From Scandinavian minimalism to maximalist eclecticism, the blogosphere and I within it became a breeding ground for experimentation and evolution. In the Land of Dochia, I became the arbiter of taste, fostering a sense of community and connection. As we step into a new era, this first gem is what marked the start of Dochia Media, where we are today, and where we’re headed in the future. I will strive for my design blogging to remain an indispensable source of inspiration, education, and dialogue for all of you who visit our Land. +1 416-492-7451 1446 Don Mills Rd. unit#230 Toronto ON M3B 3N3
dm@landofdochia.com
Happy reading,
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Designed by Dochia rendered with AI
“Personalization is when you go into a bar and sit down, and the bartender puts a whiskey in front of you without having to ask what you want.” Jeff Bezos Perhaps some may call it egotistical. Some do call it healing. Shape the world the way you want it, and don't let it mould you out of your shape. We all want to master this and feel special. Since the day we are born, we sense ourselves apart from the rest, the outside, the different. We know where our boundaries are and what does not fit within. Crossing and blurring these boundaries holds much of our fight of the everyday. The conqueror in us wants what is out there; we want it to be ours, yet we do not know how to take it. Learning how to personalize what we go through, how to pick just the right amount, the right emotion, the fitting reflection, out of the multitudes we go through, does not require someone else selecting for us - a marketer, an algorithm, a computer, an app. All it needs is an observant self and careful thinking.
Monthly FOCUS
Editorial
Creating an environment that fosters motivation and courage is crucial for staying true to your passions and resolutions. As the new year unfolds, it's an opportune time to set the stage for positive change, reinforcing your commitment to what truly matters. Here's how you can design your living space to inspire determination and a sense of purpose. Resolutions as a Foundation Visual Reminders: Incorporate visual cues that represent your resolutions. Whether it's a vision board, inspiring quotes, or images symbolizing your goals, these reminders can reinforce your commitment on a daily basis. Dedicated Space: Allocate a specific area in your home for activities related to your resolutions. It could be a cozy reading nook for personal development or a well-organized workspace for career aspirations.
Belonging and Comfort Personal Touch: Surround yourself with items that evoke a sense of belonging and comfort. Display cherished mementos, family photos, or items with sentimental value to create a space that feels uniquely yours. Comfortable Retreat: Designate a comfortable corner where you can unwind and reflect. A cozy chair or a meditation space can serve as a retreat, fostering a sense of peace and self-discovery. Embracing a New Beginning: Decluttering Ritual: Start the new year with a decluttering ritual. Clear out unnecessary items to make room for new opportunities and positive energy. A clutter-free environment promotes mental clarity and a fresh perspective. Symbolic Changes: Consider making symbolic changes in your decor. It could be a new paint color, rearranging furniture, or introducing plants to signify growth and renewal.
Choosing What to Keep and Let Go Intentional Decor: Be intentional about the items you choose to keep. Each piece should contribute to the overall atmosphere you want to create. Let go of items that no longer align with your vision for the future. Organized Storage: Streamline your storage solutions to keep your space organized. A well-organized home not only reduces stress but also makes it easier to focus on your priorities.
Positive Energy Flow Natural Elements: Integrate natural elements like sunlight, fresh air, and greenery into your home. These elements contribute to a positive and energizing atmosphere. Flow and Movement: Arrange furniture to create a harmonious flow. Ensure that there is ample space for movement, promoting a dynamic and invigorating environment.
Motivational Colors Color Psychology: Choose colors that evoke motivation and courage. Blues and greens can instill a sense of calm determination, while bold accents like red or yellow can add a touch of energy. By intentionally curating your living space to align with your goals, you transform your home into a powerful ally in your journey towards self-improvement. This mindful approach to interior design creates a supportive environment, motivating you to stay focused on the things you love and the positive changes you want to embrace.
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Mental health
T
he PETER PAN PHENOMENON is living in homes that lack the three basic elements of universal design: safe use of bathroom, effective cooking, and comfortable access to all activities and parts of the house.
BY
ADRIANA MOT
According to a Harvard study, 25% of households have someone who lives with some impairment, yet most homes built before the new millennium are for those who will not grow old. Considering that 9 out of 10 of us want to age in place, something here is not quite right.
Do you have a family member of
Home Safety Checklist:
someone living with Alzheimer's?
Secure locks on doors and windows
Then you know that creating a safe,
Security system alarms to prevent
familiar home environment is crucial; supporting their independence is crucial. Let’s look
wandering Remove tripping hazards particularly rugs and clutter Good lighting increases visual-perceptual
at how to modify your home to be
abilities
more Alzheimer-friendly.
Label cabinets and drawers Use safety knobs on stoves and appliances
Putting yourself in their shoes means you may experience decreased balance and reaction
Grab bars in the shower and near the toilet are a must Non-slip mats prevent falls Simplify room layouts to reduce confusion
time, visual-perceptual problems,
Ensure a comfortable and accessible bed
difficulty walking, memory
Store tools in a secure, organized manner
impairment, and decreased
Clearly label containers and workspaces
judgment abilities. All that comes
Handrails on stairs and ramps are
with less insight into your environment. The key becomes: balancing Safety and Independence.
lifesavers Clear pathways and well-maintained landscaping feeds the brain
A dementia-friendly home prioritizes both safety and
Safety, self-esteem, adaptation. Big
independence. You can create a
words for average people. Use
home that enhances the quality of
them. Was there a hobby that was
life for both the person with
pursued? For example, if someone
dementia and their caregivers, with
enjoyed woodworking, they may no
the right amount of attention and
longer be able to use power tools
sensibility.
but could still participate in activities like nailing, sanding, and
In current society, memory is a
painting in a designated workroom.
pillar of wellbeing. Before we dive into the new year, let's take a
But with that, beware of High-Risk
moment to consider how our
Areas!
homes and cities can adapt to the many ways that memory can be experienced.
Like it or not, most of us will reach the point where long-term care may be an immediate reality. Let’s not leave it to hope that by then the stigma associated with it will disappear, but rather make it happen. The only way it will, is by starting now. You will not wake up one morning and want something different of your home just because you will be forced to move out. Designing with this in mind and with the acknowledgement that our bodies change, there is so much that we can do for our own comfort by allowing the therapeutic beauty of interiors to make us happy. Start here!
COLOUR Most colours are associated with positive emotions. Surrounding yourself with colours is arguably the easiest way to keep a positive spirit. In this lobby design concept, we paired soft hues of dusty pink with blues, greens, and natural wood for a rich, soothing effect.
Luxury has many faces, but Scandinavian style is an inspiration for calmness, balance, and wellbeing. In this table setup concept we’ve used the muted colours of the north that reflect perfectly the Canadian winter light, crisp in low sun, clear in its reflection.
COMFORT
Love of Life expressed in your interiors, guarantees longevity Greenery: Bring nature indoors with potted plants or a small indoor garden. Not only do they add freshness, but they also contribute to a positive and vibrant ambiance. Personal Touch: Display personal items and artifacts that hold sentimental value. It could be travel souvenirs, family photos, or handmade crafts, injecting personality into your space.
Incorporating
current
interior
design
Vibrant Colours are your ticket to
trends into your living room does not
happiness
mean complete overhaul. To seamlessly
Accent Pieces: Introduce pops of colour
integrate
through accent pieces like throw pillows,
trends,
consider
infusing
elements of casual elegance, vibrant
rugs,
or
artwork.
Bold,
jewel-toned
colours, mixed textures, bold contrasts,
accessories can instantly revive a neutral
and a love for life into what you already
palette.
have.
Feature Wall: Consider painting one wall in a rich, vibrant colour to create a focal
Casual Elegance is the new norm Furniture:
Opt
for
comfortable
point. This adds visual interest without yet
overwhelming the entire space.
sophisticated furniture pieces. Consider plush sofas with clean lines or a tasteful
Mixed Textures make you feel safe
mix of modern and classic designs.
Textile
Lighting: Choose elegant lighting fixtures
textures in cushions, throws, and rugs.
that add a touch of glamour without
Mix materials like linen, velvet, and wool
being too formal. Think about statement
for
pendant lights or stylish floor lamps.
atmosphere.
a
Choices:
cosy
and
Combine
visually
different
appealing
Furniture Variety: Invest in furniture pieces with diverse textures. A leather couch paired with a wooden coffee table and a plush rug can create a harmonious blend.
tex tu r
e
O L CO
R U
Bold Contrasts get your eyes used to a “look” to maintain for your old-age Color Combinations: Experiment with contrasting color schemes. Darker furniture against lighter walls or vice versa can create a striking visual impact. Pattern Play: Incorporate bold patterns through tile, wallpapers, upholstery, or artwork. Ensure a balance to avoid overwhelming the space.
Healthy Choices and Mental Health, needless to say, equal a happy self Natural Light: Maximize natural light to enhance mood and create a sense of openness. Opt for light and airy window treatments that allow sunlight to filter through. Comfortable Seating: Choose ergonomic and comfortable seating options. A cosy reading nook or a meditation corner can promote relaxation and mental well-being. And don’t forget the scents! Spatial Relatability through Selftropy™ Functional Layout: Arrange furniture in a way that facilitates easy movement and conversation. Create defined zones for different activities, ensuring a harmonious flow. Declutter: Keep the space clutter-free to promote a sense of order and tranquillity. Choose storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the overall design. By incorporating these elements, you can revitalize your living room with current design trends while maintaining a sense of comfort and personal style. The key is to strike a balance that reflects your taste, promotes well- being, and aligns with the vibrant spirit of contemporary design. All in same time with promoting mental health and spatial relatability.
Casual Elegance is the new norm
Furniture: Opt for comfortable yet sophisticated furniture pieces. Consider plush sofas with clean lines or a tasteful mix of modern and classic designs. Lighting: Choose elegant lighting fixtures that add a touch of glamour without being too formal. Think about statement pendant lights or sculptural table lamps.
14 |
e out th d n a d n grou ky s e h t into
16 |
e w o d n o c n w o t n dow t e is p h r t a c in ined b m o c d lly n u a f e s r r a c olou c t in a , p e s t e a r e u r c t x to te s e c a f ur s in a l e porc le a c s p u , ed ed t u a relax m ith w e r e h atmosp d n a s e n to s e c n a u n layers
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Images and graphics
Quote of the month Dochia rendered with Midjourney
Cover Midjourney Editor's letter Text to image: rendered with Midjourney
Mental health Dochia rendered with Midjourney
Behind the Scenes Dochia Media
Focus Text to image rendered with Midjourney
The team Adriana Mot Jessica Cornacchia Theodora Zetu
EDITORIAL OFFICE
1446 Don Mills Rd., unit #230 Toronto ON M3B 3N3 +1-416-492-7451 | dm@landofdochia.com www.dochiamedia.com Unless noted otherwise, images included in this magazine and listed above are used under any of the following: fair use, creative commons, public domain or paid license. All other images listed ‘DM’ are the copyright of Dochia Media. No images or any of the material included in this issue are to be used, modified or in original form, by a third party without specific permission from copyright owner.
ISSN 2817-1098 Published by Dochia Media all rights reserved
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