ness of the importance of good air quality for the preservation and improvement of health, leading to a demand for air filtration systems that include features like hospital-grade HEPA filters, ultraviolet lights and carbon scrubbers. In general, a good-quality HVAC system to keep the home comfortable at all times is important and not to be skimped on in high-value homes. Lighting is also important in any home, Eldridge says. He steers away from LED lighting that is harsh on the eyes. More widely there is a trend toward incorporating automatic systems that control lighting throughout the day to support peoples’ natural circadian rhythms and promote good sleep. “Your shades are going down and the evening chill lights are coming on,” observes Natalie Gibson of Axiom Home Tech in Monterey. “These things happen all on their own.” Axiom installs automated lighting and shades that can follow the course of any day. And the system can be programmed to adjust for unexpected events. Red light therapy is another feature that is being increasingly used in luxury homes. The low-level light waves are thought to target the cells and lead to rejuvenation of the skin, decreased inflammation and even the promotion of better sleep. Entire panels or ceiling fixtures are being installed in home gyms and bathrooms—some RLT technology is built directly into shower heads or ceiling tiles in shower stalls. Therapies found at spas are making their ways into private homes—salt caves providing halotherapy, or salt therapy, are an example. Walls can be made of sea salt or pink Himalayan salt or include a halogenerator, a machine that grinds salt into fine particles and blows them into the air. Some people swear salt’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help respiratory issues, lead to healthier skin and reduced stress. Aside from special rooms or gardens, a home’s building materials are an important factor in creating a healthy home atmosphere. “I like cedar paneling in a room,” Eldridge says. “It provides a real warm material feel but it also doesn’t kick off [volatile organic compounds].” Avoiding any materials that could hold PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” and using natural materials like nontoxic paint on the walls, hardwood floors, natural linoleum, or cork flooring, as well as wool rugs and carpeting, are also part of the trend toward promoting overall wellness through the home. While designing a healthy home is good for humans, it’s also good for the financial bottom line. Homes with built-in wellness features tend to sell for 10- to 25-percent more, according to the National Association of Realtors— although once you’ve built your dream home that helps you live a healthier and longer life, you may never want to leave. Wellness Homes continued from pg 20 22 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® HAVEN 2026-2027 Move here & stay in the driver’s seat Many car enthusiasts, like Fred, call Carmel Valley Manor home. We o er those 65+ impeccable service, a low-maintenance home, scrumptious meals, and exceptional healthcare. Our 28-acre campus is complete with manicured gardens, a pool, fitness center, and even a putting green. Take a test drive at 8545 Carmel Valley Rd in Carmel. For a tour, call Angie Machado (800) 544-5546 or visit CVManor.com License #270700110 – COA#082 Hear the residents talk about it CV-Manor_1-2h_Haven26_dg.indd 1 7/20/26 17:18
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