We know that natural light and the outdoors are great for overall health, but did you know that the benefits are specific and measurable? Vitamin D that your body makes from natural sunlight is crucial to maintaining bone density, fighting depression, improving sleeping habits, and keeping a number of inflammatory diseases at bay. And the best part? It doesn’t matter if you get your sunlight indoors or out. 

That’s why at Hubbell Homes, we design our homes with large, double-hung, energy-efficient windows that allow for maximum sunlight and fresh air flow. Biophilic design, as it is called, encourages the use of natural elements such as plants, water, air, and sunlight inside of spaces to improve the quality of life. We keep this design philosophy top-of-mind as we create homes and communities for our residents to be healthy, happy, and thrive.

Not only are the interiors of our homes open, airy, and bright, we make sure you have access to beautiful outdoor spaces, too. Multiple studies suggest that one of the key indicators of longevity is access to green space. Time spent outdoors improves physical, mental, and social well-being. 

At Hubbell Homes, we’ve long understood the importance of nature and access to the great outdoors. Some of our communities include a variety of shared outdoor living spaces – pools, pickleball courts, parks, walking trails, and clubhouse patios - plus private patios when it’s time to relax, unwind, or share cozy family moments. And our homeowners enjoy plenty of benefits from their time spent outdoors! 

• Physical benefits. Physical activity such as walking is good for joint flexibility, strengthening muscles, and the cardiovascular system. Spending time outdoors (i.e. walking, gardening, or swimming) can lower the inflammation levels associated with hypertension, autoimmune diseases, and depression. Living near green spaces has also been shown to lower the prevalence of certain diseases, while lowering mortality rates, too! 
• Mental benefits. Physical activity that takes place in a natural setting improves memory, increases cognitive function, and has a restorative effect overall. Thirty minutes or more of walking, gardening, or even just looking out over the landscape from your patio, can have a significant effect on moods, stress levels, and mental health. 
• Socialization benefits. Social encounters that occur during physical activity have a positive effect as well. They create a sense of community and lessen any feeling of isolation. Running or walking in groups, playing cards by the pool, and tending a garden are all great for exercising the mind and body while providing vital interpersonal connections. 

Residents of Hubbell Homes’ communities enjoy these advantages, plus so many others. With a focus on healthy spaces — both indoors and out — Hubbell homes are naturally designed to improve your quality of life for years to come. Visit our new home communities throughout Des Moines.