By Michelle Ifversen, Founder, DesignWell Studios

We often consider our homes as sanctuaries, yet the air inside may harbor unseen pollutants that can affect our health in subtle and significant ways. The reality is that indoor air can be up to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Given that most people spend around 90% of their time indoors—in homes, offices, and schools—understanding and improving indoor air quality (IAQ) is essential to protecting your family’s well-being.

At DesignWell Studios, we bring more than 15 years of experience helping Portland homeowners and builders identify hidden environmental risks and implement evidence-based solutions for healthier indoor environments.

What Is Indoor Air Quality?

Indoor air quality refers to the purity and safety of air inside buildings as it relates to occupant health and comfort. Pollutants stem from a range of sources including building materials, cleaning products, moisture, and infiltration of outdoor contaminants. Exposure to poor indoor air can increase risks of respiratory disease, allergies, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular conditions.

Emerging Insights: What Science Tells Us About Indoor Air Pollutants

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

New research published by the Environmental Health Perspectives journal (2023) highlights that VOC exposure, even at low levels commonly found indoors, may contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress affecting lung and brain health. Many modern synthetic furnishings and cleaning agents continue to emit VOCs long after installation.
— Environmental Health Perspectives, 2023: VOCs and Chronic Inflammation

Mold and Dampness

A recent systematic review in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2024) confirms strong links between damp indoor environments, mold exposure, and increased incidence of asthma and allergic rhinitis, particularly in children and sensitive adults. The report emphasizes the importance of moisture control and early remediation.
— Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 2024: Mold Exposure and Respiratory Health

Particulate Matter and Ultrafine Particles

According to the latest WHO guidelines (2023), ultra fine particles (PM0.1) indoors, generated from cooking, candles, and smoking, can penetrate lung tissue and even enter the bloodstream, raising risks for heart disease and stroke. Improving ventilation and filtration systems are now considered crucial.
— World Health Organization, 2023: Air Quality Guidelines

Radon

The American Lung Association (2024) continues to emphasize radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the US. They report that newer building designs and energy efficiency measures can sometimes trap radon indoors, underscoring the need for routine testing and mitigation strategies.
— American Lung Association, 2024: Radon Risks and Mitigation

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Innovations in smart home technology now offer integrated CO detectors that connect to mobile devices, alerting homeowners in real-time to dangerous levels. According to CDC data, CO poisoning still causes over 400 deaths annually in the US, many preventable with modern detection systems.
— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023: CO Poisoning Facts

The Health Toll of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality has immediate and long-term health consequences, such as:

Aggravated asthma, bronchitis, and COPD
Increased allergic reactions and sensitivities
Cognitive decline, brain fog, and impaired focus (recent studies connect indoor pollutants with neuroinflammation)
Cardiovascular stress and increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
Exacerbation of autoimmune and chemical sensitivity conditions

Research from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health (2023) links long-term exposure to indoor pollutants with reduced cognitive function in adults, highlighting the need for preventive measures.
— Harvard T.H. Chan, 2023: Indoor Air Pollution and Brain Health

Proven Strategies to Enhance Indoor Air Quality

Optimize Ventilation

Incorporate energy-efficient ventilation systems such as Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) or Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs), which bring in fresh air while minimizing energy loss. Research shows these systems significantly reduce indoor pollutant levels in modern homes.
— ASHRAE Journal, 2023: Ventilation in Residential Buildings

Use Low-Emission Materials

Select paints, adhesives, and furnishings certified for low or zero VOC emissions (e.g., GREENGUARD certification), reducing toxic chemical off-gassing. Innovations in natural materials and finishes now offer healthier alternatives without compromising design.

Moisture Control

Maintain indoor relative humidity between 30-50%, a range shown in recent studies to inhibit mold growth and dust mite proliferation, improving respiratory health outcomes. Use smart sensors to monitor humidity and promptly address leaks or condensation.

Filtration and Air Cleaning

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration combined with activated carbon filters effectively remove particulates and chemical pollutants. Emerging technologies such as photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) purifiers offer promising enhancements, but require careful selection and maintenance.
— Environmental Science & Technology Letters, 2024: Indoor Air Cleaning Technologies

Regular Environmental Testing

Professional testing for VOCs, mold, radon, and carbon monoxide helps identify hidden hazards before they impact your health. Early detection enables targeted remediation, saving time, money, and health risks.

How DesignWell Studios Partners With You

At DesignWell Studios, we combine rigorous scientific understanding with a compassionate approach. We know that every home and family has unique needs. Our customized assessments and wellness-driven design solutions help you breathe easier, live healthier, and create spaces where you can truly thrive.

Take Action Today for a Healthier Home

Are you concerned about the air you breathe at home? Schedule a professional indoor air quality consultation with DesignWell Studios to uncover hidden risks and get personalized recommendations for improvement.

Download our Buyers Guide to Indoor Air Quality for practical tips on choosing healthy materials, improving ventilation, and maintaining a clean environment.

Contact DesignWell Studios
Portland, OR
📞 (503) 386-2003
📧 info@designwellstudios.com
🌐 www.designwellstudios.com

Selected References

Environmental Health Perspectives (2023). Volatile Organic Compounds and Chronic Inflammation. https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP11068
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2024). Mold Exposure and Respiratory Health. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/21/2/531
World Health Organization (2023). Air Quality Guidelines. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240034228
American Lung Association (2024). Radon Risks and Mitigation. https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-home/indoor-air-pollutants/radon
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023). Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. https://www.cdc.gov/co/
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (2023). Indoor Air Pollution and Cognitive Decline. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/air-pollution-cognitive-decline/
ASHRAE Journal (2023). Ventilation in Residential Buildings. https://www.ashrae.org/file%20library/technical%20resources/ashrae%20journal/2023/august/2023-ashrae-journal-aug.pdf
Environmental Science & Technology Letters (2024). Indoor Air Cleaning Technologies. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.3c00879