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Writer's pictureDavinci Interiors

The Psychology of Design, Part II - The Space Odyssey

Updated: May 21

In our previous blog post, we delved into the world of color psychology and its powerful influence on interior design. Now, let's embark on a thrilling journey to explore another pivotal aspect of design: space. Fasten your seatbelts, as we're about to launch into the exciting realm of space psychology and unveil its secrets!


Space psychology, an enthralling and expanding field, examines the intricate connections between our environment and our mental and emotional well-being. Research reveals that our physical surroundings profoundly affect our productivity, creativity, mood, and even our physical health.


Picture this: a spacious room with high ceilings that invites you to breathe deeply and unleash your creativity. Studies confirm that such environments boost our mood and stimulate out-of-the-box thinking. Conversely, cluttered and chaotic spaces can trigger anxiety, stress, and a sense of being overwhelmed.


Decluttering and organizing our homes and workspaces can revolutionize our mental health. By designing clean, open spaces that are easy to navigate, we can diminish stress and encourage social interaction. Adding plants and flowers not only brightens our mood and sharpens our focus but also purifies the air and balances humidity levels.


Feng Shui, an ancient practice celebrating the natural elements of water, wind, fire, metal, and earth, can also soothe our mental and emotional state. By incorporating organic shapes, textures, and fabrics that dance with the wind, we can curate spaces that radiate relaxation and positive energy flow. Water, used therapeutically in deep baths or showers, can have a transformative effect on our mood and overall well-being.


Plants, Light and space
Courtesy of pinterest.com

Let's further explore four captivating areas of study related to space planning:


Biophilic Design: This innovative approach integrates natural elements such as plants, water features, and natural light to mimic the great outdoors. Based on the idea that humans possess an inherent connection to nature, biophilic design enhances health, well-being, and productivity by incorporating natural elements into our lives. Research shows that biophilic

design bolsters cognitive function, slashes stress, and fuels creativity. Introducing greenery into a workspace or home also refines air quality and regulates humidity levels, benefiting our health.


Lighting: The glow in a space can also sway our mood and behavior. Natural light reigns supreme, but artificial light can effectively create diverse moods when sunlight isn't available. Bright lighting can invigorate our energy levels, while soft lighting can establish a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Light colors also influence our emotions, with warm tones evoking comfort and cool tones driving productivity.


Acoustics: The soundscapes of a space impact our concentration, communication, and relaxation. Overwhelming noise can be distracting and raise stress levels, while silence can create an unwelcoming, sterile environment. Expertly designed acoustics enrich the overall experience of a space, whether in a commercial or residential setting.


Ergonomics: The design of furniture and equipment in a space affects our physical health and comfort. Ergonomics, the science of tailoring products and spaces to maximize efficiency and minimize discomfort, offers solutions such as adjustable chairs and standing desks to reduce physical strain and injury.


In commercial settings, applying space psychology principles can lead to heightened productivity, soaring retail sales, and expedited recovery in healthcare facilities. By comprehending the remarkable ways our environment influences our mental and emotional health, we can create spaces that promote wellness and elevate our quality of life.


The use of space in design has a substantial impact on our behavior, emotions, and well-being. By incorporating techniques from space psychology, we can design spaces that foster wellness, enrich our quality of life, and enhance productivity in various settings. Sources:

https://www.interiordesign.net/articles/17690-5-things-to-know-about-biophilic-design/

https://www.lighting.philips.com/main/education/connect/blog/how-light-affects-your-mood

https://www.gensler.com/research-insight/blog/the-psychology-of-acoustics-in-workplace-design

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