In our bustling world, the environment in which we live can influence our mental state and overall well-being. The field of environmental psychology delves into how our surroundings impact our thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Exploring the relationship between environmental psychology and interior design often leads to a rich tapestry of insights to light up the way to creating a living space that’s not just beautiful, but also healthier and more nurturing.
The concept
The core of environmental psychology includes the concepts of perception, cognition, behaviour, and emotion. These elements intricately weave together to shape our experiences within a given environment. How we interact with our surroundings, be it a cosy corner of our home or the bustling streets of a city, is the result of a dynamic interplay between our internal state and external stimuli. For example, light, colour, materials and acoustics directly affect our senses and feelings and influence our emotions and functionality when we interact with elements or people in the space.
For a deeper insight into the relationship between environmental psychology and interior design, I spoke with Funmi Ade-Ojo, a practitioner in the field. When asked about her journey into interior design and the inter-relationship between environmental psychology and her work, Ade-Ojo says, “I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection between the science of design and its transformative power to enhance the human experience. Understanding the psychological nuances of how people interact with their surroundings has been integral to my approach as a designer.”
Mental health
The link between one’s environment and mental health is where interior design emerges as a potent tool to create spaces that enhance emotional well-being. From soothing colour palettes to thoughtful spatial arrangements, design choices can lift spirits and alleviate stress, possibly serving as a sanctuary amidst life’s chaos.
Ade-Ojo says, “I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that well-implemented environments can have on mental well-being. One project that stands out is a galley kitchen that spanned 24 ft. The kitchen build tapped into neurodiversity, addressing the homeowner’s child’s ADHD, catering to the child’s need to pace up and down, while empowering him to function within the kitchen. In the same project, we utilized the placement of the east-facing windows to take full advantage of the rising sun, promoting the circadian rhythm and well-being of the neurodiverse individuals that lived and operated in the space.”
Crafting spaces
Incorporating elements of the natural world into interior spaces evokes a sense of tranquillity and connection to the earth. Verdant foliage, cascading water features, and natural light infuse a room with vitality and serenity, offering respite from the rigours of modern life. Additionally, ample natural light, optimal ventilation and ergonomic furniture further elevate comfort and productivity, nurturing a harmonious balance between work and relaxation.
“I prioritize creating spaces with a heavy influence and impact on the end-user experience,” says Ade-Ojo. “Working with key elements such as layering colour within light fixtures to promote well-being and relaxation, and using biomimicry in texture, tones, patterns and the integration of natural products and biophilia to create a connection to the great outdoors.”
This approach suggests that aesthetics will no longer take centre stage as the driving factor in how we design. Ade-Ojo says, “Automation, in specific movement into smart design, will evolve using biological senses that are monitored through AI in products such as sofas, responding to our biological needs; for example, feeling very hot, and sensors in the sofa sending a message to the thermostat to turn on the air conditioning.”
Paving the way forward
From virtual reality simulations that allow us to visualize spatial concepts to sustainable design practices that prioritize both ecological stewardship and human well-being, the landscape of design is poised for evolution. When asked to discuss the collaboration between psychologists, designers and architects to create environments that focus on human well-being in residential design, Ade-Ojo says a multi-disciplinary approach to design has been ongoing in the commercial and healthcare spaces, and she expects to see it employed in residential spaces as people become more aware of the holistic approach.
Environmental psychology and interior design offer a gateway to holistic well-being and by understanding the impact of our surroundings on mental health, we unlock the transformative power of design to nurture and uplift the human spirit.
Credits: Design: Funmi Ade-Ojo Haus of Banstead Design Inc.