The psychological effects of interior design have become big business. Companies throughout the world now pair psychological professionals with architects and decorators in order to create spaces that are not only functional, but that also produce the mental and emotional effects the company wants to generate in its workers and customers.
Here are eight positive emotional effects good interior design can have – and some of them may surprise you.
1. A good interior design de-stresses your brain at a primal level.
As we discussed in our last post, the human brain evolved on the African savannah. At its most primal level, the brain still sees spaces as savannah-like. When design takes this into account and mimics the basic “safety” signals the brain is seeking, it helps reduce the brain’s pre-conscious “fight or flight” instinct – making you feel more calm before you realize it.
2. Improved contrast helps you stay independent as you age (really!).
Studies on aging adults show that our ability to see contrasting colors and shades decreases as we age. While many people don’t find this bothersome, it can be dangerous. The inability to pick out contrast makes it easier to trip, stumble, or bump into things – with painful results. A space that is both visually attractive and that uses contrast well can help people navigate more safely, regardless of their age.
3. Landscapes may help you heal.
Several studies performed over the past thirty years have indicated that hospital patients who have access to real nature scenes or photographed scenes heal more quickly, experience fewer complications, and use less pain medications than patients who do not. Good interior design can place windows to take advantage of a nature scene outside, or find the perfect artwork and lighting to simulate the feel. Whether you’re trying to beat a bad cold, or you just want to relax after a long day, design can help.
4. Sunlight improves mood – and more.
Everyone loves a bright, sunny day, and science suggests this is no mere whim. Sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is an essential component in boosting mood, reducing pain, and improving energy levels. Good interior design takes advantage of a building’s location and position to maximize the value of natural sunlight.
5. Form changes feeling.
Angled walls and ceilings and visually unsupported forms create energy and induce a feeling of tension, which is why they are popular in places like stadiums – but perhaps not the best choice for your bedroom. An office full of dynamic forms can help you achieve more, while a bedroom containing soothing ones may improve your sleep.
6. When it comes to color, look beyond your favorites.
Filling your home or office space with your favorite color can feel fun, but if you limit yourself to only a few colors, you’re missing out on the mood-enhancing effects of the full spectrum. From warm, powerful red to creative yellow, soothing green, or serene grey, the right colors can improve your experience of every room in your home.
7. Create visual space to feel more prosperous and relaxed.
Even small spaces can be made to feel large by applying the concept of “perception of space.” Furniture that’s the right proportion for the space, strategic use of mirrors, and moving or altering walls and windows can all make a space feel bigger, making the entire building feel larger and easier to see.
8. The items you choose can encourage people to respond to you more warmly, too.
Studies indicate that when other people enter your space, they evaluate your “stuff” based on four major criteria: function, exchange (or value), symbolism, and status. When you consider items for your space, ask how you want people to feel about you when they visit. For instance, having the kids’ artwork professionally framed demonstrates your warmth and love of family, encouraging guests to respond by relaxing and opening up.
Ready to improve your space and your emotional health with interior design? The designers at Ron Nathan Interiors are standing by to help.
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