- January 4, 2026
- Terri Fiori
This article is the first in a series of four.
I recently listened to a podcast that spoke about the Butterfly Effect. Naturally, as most things do, it made me think about how it relates to design.
The Butterfly Effect describes how a small change in one place can create a much larger impact over time. In our homes, this shows up constantly. Because our brains and bodies are always responding to our surroundings, one thoughtful design adjustment can quietly shift how an entire space feels and how we feel living in it. For this reason, when I design a home, I present the entire design as each decision quietly supports the next, shaping the design as a whole.
In this four part series, I will discuss how these small changes such as light, paint, a minor edit and furniture placement, can make a major impact in your home.
Lighting
We all know that proper lighting in every home is essential. It can be as simple as adding task lighting or dimmers; other times, it means introducing natural light where a space has always felt closed off. The shift isn’t just visual, it’s physiological. Your mood, focus, and energy all respond. When lighting improves, the body often relaxes before the mind even registers why.
3 quick ways to make this work in your home:
Add one layered light source (table or floor lamp) in a space you use daily. I recommend this even if you have plenty of overhead lighting. This source of light on a tabletop level is meant to layer and soften the feel of the room.
Use warm dimmable bulbs in 2700k – 3000k range, with about 800-100 lumens for living areas. (Sidenote: the industry has made this much more difficult than it should be, so trust me on this one)
Layer window treatments so daytime light can filter in, while evenings feel calm and contained. Small change. Immediate impact.
The small shift isn’t just visual, it’s physiological. Mood, focus, sleep, and energy all respond.
In my next article, I’ll share why paint, often treated as a last decision, can quietly shape how a room feels, functions, and supports daily life more than we expect.
And last but not least, this article’s “Rare Finds”:
I found these pieces to be quite interesting and a bit whimsical. This series, Beyond the Horizon, features unique handblown and sculpted glass works by British artist Louis Thompson. His work has been exhibited at institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, among others.
Want to learn more? It all starts with a conversation. Reach out and let’s explore how we can design your own one-of-a-kind space. In the meantime, I’ll keep you posted as this speakeasy takes shape. It’s going to be a fun one!
Design is personal, and the right choices make all the difference.
