In today’s fast-paced, high-performance world, it’s no longer enough for a home just to be beautiful — it must actively support the health, longevity, and well-being of its inhabitants.

Scottsdale-based interior design firm Sesshu Design Associates specializes in blending luxury with wellness innovation, creating homes that do more than look stunning; they become sanctuaries for recovery, performance, and optimal living. This concept, which they call Performance-Driven Design, goes beyond traditional aesthetics to incorporate biohacking technologies and holistic wellness strategies.

THE KITCHEN: THE HEART OF ULTRA-WELLNESS

When it comes to wellness, the kitchen is where it all begins. Whether you’re a high-powered executive, an elite athlete, or simply someone committed to a healthier lifestyle, the kitchen is central to achieving your wellness goals. A kitchen designed with wellness in mind makes it easier to prepare nutritious meals, sustain healthy habits, and prioritize your well-being in the midst of a busy life.

Sesshu Design, under the guidance of owner Tanya Shively, takes a “wellness-first” approach to kitchen design. Every element, from layout to appliance choices, is selected with health in mind. “We want the kitchen to be a place that encourages healthy living,” says Shively. “It’s not just about having beautiful countertops and custom cabinetry — it’s about creating a space that makes wellness part of your everyday routine.”

One of the must-have features of Sesshu Design’s wellness kitchens is the integration of under-counter refrigerator drawers. These strategically placed drawers ensure that fresh fruits, vegetables, and beverages are always within easy reach, encouraging healthy snacking and hydration throughout the day. By placing these nutrient-dense foods at eye level and in easy-to-access spots, healthy choices become second nature. No more digging through the main fridge to find the spinach — you’ll see it right when you need it.

“These drawers are a game-changer for busy families and high achievers alike,” explains Shively. “Keeping healthy options front and center helps everyone in the household make better food choices, even when they’re in a hurry.” A key feature of a wellness kitchen is the steam oven. Unlike microwaves, steam ovens retain more nutrients, making them perfect for cooking vegetables and proteins without added fats. This method preserves natural flavors while promoting a nutrient-rich diet.

“Steam ovens are incredibly versatile,” says Shively. “Clients love how they can prepare everything from perfectly cooked veggies to juicy chicken, all while keeping nutrients intact.”

For anyone focused on wellness and performance, the steam oven is essential for quick, nutritious meals that fuel a healthy lifestyle.

Pantry organization plays a critical role in a wellness- centered kitchen. A thoughtfully designed pantry with well-planned storage ensures that healthy ingredients are easily accessible. Incorporating labeled jars, baskets, and custom shelving systems creates a streamlined environment that makes meal prep easier, more efficient, and focused on whole, nutritious foods.

A HOME DESIGNED FOR WELLNESS

Of course, the kitchen is only one piece of the puzzle. Sesshu Design’s team believes in taking a holistic approach to home design, ensuring that every space supports the health and well-being of the people who live there.

Incorporating biophilic design is an essential part of their wellness strategy. By using natural materials and live plants, and by maximizing natural light and views of the outdoors, they help clients feel more connected to nature. Studies have shown that even small interactions with nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function — key factors for maintaining balance in a high-pressure, fast-paced lifestyle.

REST, RECOVERY, AND PERFORMANCE

Sleep is a crucial element in overall wellness and is a priority in every home created by Tanya and her team. For high achievers — whether they are athletes, executives, or celebrities — quality sleep is non-negotiable. They incorporate advanced sleep technologies such as circadian rhythm lighting systems, which adjust lighting according to your body’s natural sleep-wake cycles. These systems help regulate your internal clock, improving both sleep quality and daytime alertness.

The designers also focus on using organic bedding, non-toxic materials, and EMF protection. Reducing exposure to electromagnetic fields is vital for ensuring deep, restorative sleep. From wire shielding to specialized paints that block EMF radiation, they implement hidden design strategies that turn the bedroom into a sanctuary for rest and recovery.

CUTTING-EDGE WELLNESS AMENITIES FOR HIGH ACHIEVERS

For those living a high-performance lifestyle, wellness amenities that support both physical and mental recovery are essential. Tanya notes, “Increasingly, our clients are asking for advanced wellness features that go beyond the basics. For instance, infrared saunas and steam rooms are popular requests.” These spaces provide detoxification, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle recovery, helping high performers bounce back from intense workouts or long days at the office.

The demand for cold plunge pools is also growing, as athletes and wellness enthusiasts swear by the benefits of cold exposure for reducing inflammation, boosting circulation, and accelerating recovery. A brief plunge into a cold pool after a workout can rejuvenate the body and mind, improving performance and overall energy levels.

Another emerging trend in wellness design is the integration of floatation tanks. These sensory deprivation tanks allow for deep relaxation and stress relief by creating an environment of weightlessness, helping to reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. The ability to disconnect and experience complete stillness is a powerful tool for both physical recovery and mental focus.

TRANSFORMING HOMES INTO WELLNESS SANCTUARIES

Sesshu Design’s Performance-Driven Design is more than just a design philosophy—it’s a lifestyle upgrade for those who demand the best from their homes and themselves. By creating homes that nourish both the body and mind, and integrating advanced wellness amenities throughout, Sesshu Design helps clients live healthier, more balanced lives.

For high achievers seeking a home that supports their goals for longevity, health, and peak performance, Sesshu Design offers the ultimate solution: luxury spaces designed for wellness. If you’re ready to transform your home into a hub of nutrition and recovery, it’s time to explore the power of ultra- wellness living.