Transform your living space into a sanctuary of health and vitality. This two-part, hands-on masterclass bridges the gap between science and tradition to explore how your physical environment shapes your mental well-being.
Led by Angela Jones, Principal Designer at Lakeshore Designs, you will learn to apply neuroscience, colour psychology, flow, and the ancient art of Feng Shui to your own home. Bring a photo and floor plan of one room in your house or cottage that needs love, and walk away with a practical design plan and a Trent University micro-credential.
Part 1: Brain, Body, and Balance (July 14 — Lakefield)
Discover the science of space and the foundations of mindful design.
Module 1: Neuro-Architecture & The Psychology of Home
- The Mind-Space Connection: How environments trigger stress or promote dopamine and calm.
- Neuroscience of Flow: Understanding how navigation, ceiling heights, and sightlines impact your nervous system.
- The Wellness Lens: Designing for circadian rhythms, air quality, and natural light optimization.
Module 2: The Sensory Palette (Colour & Texture)
- Soothe vs. Stimulate: The psychological profiles of warm, cool, and neutral colour wavelengths.
- Tactile Wellness: Using biophilic design (plants, wood, stone) to lower blood pressure.
- Acoustics & Lighting: Simple shifts to reduce sensory overload in high-traffic zones.
Module 3: Introduction to Feng Shui
- Energy Currents: Core concepts of Chi, Yin and Yang balance, and the five elements.
- The Command Position: Where to place furniture to induce psychological safety and control.
Interactive Workshop:
- Case Study Reveal: Participants introduce their chosen "room in need of love" to the peer cohort.
- Homework Assignment: Map furniture layout, track the room's energy, visual space, and blockages.
Part 2: The Studio Workshop & Implementation (July 21 — Lakeshore Designs Studio)
Apply your skills, play with textures, and finalize your design blueprint.
Module 4: Practical Flow & Layout Strategy
- De-cluttering the Mind: The psychological weight of clutter and the art of editing a room.
- Ergonomics of Comfort: Mapping out clearances, conversation circles, and functional pathways.
Module 5: The Studio Experience with Angela Jones
- Live Critique: Angela guides the group through real-time feedback on your specific room or cottage project.
- Material Play: Access the studio's textile, paint, and finish libraries to build a tactile mood board.
- Futureproofing: Learn repeatable design frameworks you can apply to any future space.
Interactive Workshop & Wrap-up:
- Peer Design Circle: Collaborate, network, and share creative ideas with fellow design enthusiasts.
- Credential Ceremony: Peer review of finalized mood boards and micro-credential sign-off.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this two-part series, you will be able to:
- Analyze a room layout using neuro-architecture concepts to maximize daily comfort.
- Select colour palettes and textures engineered to soothe anxiety and boost mood.
- Apply foundational Feng Shui layout rules to promote harmony and safety.
- Execute a comprehensive redesign plan for a personal space using professional studio tools.
Course Details:
- Dates: July 14th & July 21st, 2026 6pm - 8pm
- Location: Session 1: Makerspace - Selwyn Library / Session 2: Lakeshore Designs Studio
- Prerequisites: None—everyone welcome!
- Credential: Trent University Micro-Credential
Trent Alumni receive 10% off. Please email alumni@trentu.ca for more information.
Current Trent undergraduate students receive 20% off. Please email microcredential@trentu.ca for more information.
Current Trent staff and faculty receive 20% off. Please email microcredential@trentu.ca for more information.
NOTE: Only one discount code can be used per order
Collaborators
This program is a collaboration between the Life Long Learning Team at Trent, Canadian Family Health Counselling, Lakefield Makerspace and Lakeshore Designs
How to Register:
For further information on this course, please visit the Canadian Family Health Counselling website.