Over the last few years the topic of wellbeing within architecture and interior design has gained momentum, fuelled by the research of neuroscientists, psychologists and urban planners. There’s no doubt our spaces deeply affect us physically, emotionally, psychologically, and energetically. Even more so now, that we are in the midst of a global pandemic.
In developed countries, we spend around 90% of our time indoors. And that’s before a pandemic comes along and forces us not only to spend even more time inside our homes, but to turn them into workspaces, too.
There are many interior elements of a space that can positively affect our mood. Keeping abreast of current research and having an understanding the established principles such as Feng shui can prove useful tools in guiding the interior design process to create spaces that make us feel relaxed, want to stay longer and work more productively.
Space Planning & Placement
Space is an important factor in interior design. It has an immense influence on our mood, behaviour and physical activity: in short, the human psychology. Ideal space planning can bring in a sense of balance between beauty and comfort.
Our homes have now become our offices, gyms, schools and playgrounds as well as our places of rest, so the introduction of zoning is necessary for creating some separation in our daily activities. The clever placement of a rug or armchair can help to define areas for different activities. If you want to spend more time reading perhaps create a reading corner with some open shelves for books and a cosy chair. Or maybe meditation has become an important part of your daily routine, in which case carve out a small space to sit and be surrounded by your favourite things and a calming piece of artwork. It is important to take the time to consider how you would like to use different parts of your home and then designing your space around these functions. Involving an interior designer at the outset of a project allows thorough consideration of internal layouts and ensures spaces are optimised for the way our clients live.
Aesthetics and Colours
The colours, shapes, textures and materials now coming to the fore in the market reflect today’s focus on wellbeing and promote a calmer and healthier way of thinking and feeling.
It’s widespread knowledge that colour can affect mood and behaviour. Bright hues such as orange and red promote socialising, however too much red and energy levels can be raised such that we feel anxious. Green on the other hand can make us feel calm and relaxed while at the same time it can help promote productivity. Blue is associated with clear thinking. Dark, rich colours can have a cocooning effect and make us feel grounded and secure, while flesh tones are said to aid restfulness and promote sleep. Assessing the function of a space, the natural light entering a room and the desired outcome of a space will help direct choice of colour palettes and the balance of colours in a space.
Light
Natural light should always be the starting point in any lighting design scheme for space. Structurally there are windows to consider, beyond that a lighting design scheme should be people centric.
Essential for giving us our daily dose of Vitamin D, studies show that natural light can also improve our productivity and overall mood whilst reinforcing our circadian rhythms. Whatever size your space is, make the most of natural light with plenty of mirrors and glass or polished surfaces to bounce light around the room. Use clever combinations of lamps to mimic patterns of daylight throughout your home. Turning off ceiling lights in the evenings in favour of floor and table lamps will help to create a soft and relaxing space for you to unwind in.
We at RK Signature Interiors strongly believe that interior design is all about taking the time to understand clients’ requirements and interpreting those in order to create interior spaces that lift us up and improve our wellbeing. Contact us to see how we could add value to your project.
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