Architectural design and mental health reciprocate each other. Is it a mere theory or a fact that design and built environment sculpt the facade of our emotions? The effects of design on mental health are profound and responsive. Architectural design can impact you positively, whereas, some may affect you negatively and are crucial in a person?s everyday well-being. As humans, we live in some or the other built space for most of our lives. Be it your home, office, restaurant, or gym, we always reside in an enclosed space. This is where space design, colour play, and textures come into the picture. 

Let us explore more about the impact of architecture on well-being and how little details and elements affect it significantly. If a person is made to live in a cramped space with bleak colours, mild sunlight, and less ventilation, the person will start feeling claustrophobic and mentally exhausted. Such spaces prove to be inhabitable. Likewise, living in a well-lit, ventilated space with pleasant colours makes a person feel happy and energetic.

Influence of architecture on mental well being

Mental health and built environment are interdependent. Architecture plays a pivotal role in modulating one?s emotional and mental state. Numerous factors, features, and elements have their imprints on our brains and are the psychological effects of architecture. We can adapt to different environments within a shorter time frame and modify our behavioural patterns accordingly. Hence, it justifies that Architecture and human behaviour are the elements that go hand in hand and are greatly influenced by architecture. For instance, when we visit a park, we suddenly feel a surge of energy and enthusiasm. There are peculiar aspects of these spaces that have a major impact. A park has long stretches of open grasslands and an abundance of fresh air that stimulates a sense of belonging and a connection with nature. 

Impact of spatial planning of spaces on mental well being

Openness nurtures a sense of freedom within us. In talking about built spaces, certain details upturn the spatial experience. An enormous palace gives us scope to explore its enormity but simultaneously overwhelms us with its vastness. A compact house or an office space with restricted circulation or low ceiling heights is uncomfortable to live in. The compactness of the space makes a person feel overpowered and trapped, increasing stress and anxiety. Ergo, efficient design, and planning of a space layout is essential in creating a habitable living space.

Impact of nature on mental well being

Architecture is a powerful tool that can influence mental well-being through numerous biophilic elements. An abundance of fresh air and natural light creates a more rejuvenating and tranquil space experience. Incorporating the greens within our built envelopes provides closeness with nature promoting mental health and emotional well-being. For instance, access to nature regulates our brain functioning and enhances our senses, helping us with cognitive responses. Integrating living props like plants within our built space has essential health benefits that urban cities lack. Likewise, Healing architecture is an emerging concept that nurtures emotional comfort and mental well-being.

Impact of Color Play on Mental Well-being

Colours are impactful and can change not just your mood but also the experience of a space. According to colour theory, each colour and its combination make a space. Various colour tones give a soothing effect while adding character to the space. Emotions are associated with colours and are also deeply rooted within our cultures. For eg. red colour is associated with contrasting emotions that represent affection and violence.  Understanding the right use of colours in a space is crucial, considering their impact on our psyche.

My House – The Mental Health House

Poor working conditions lead to numerous mental health issues. According to science, ample sunlight, fresh air, and closeness to nature improve brain functioning and mental health. The Austin Maynard Architects office space occupies the lower portion of the house of the principal architect. He took the initiative of experimenting and renovating his home and office while battling with mental issues himself. Rather than living in a dark space, the architect landed a solution to incorporate immense natural light, a breeze through large glass doors, and an elaborate greenhouse. Tweaking and adjusting elements can notably alter a space experience as a whole.

Promoting and prioritizing mental and emotional health is imperative in developing urban life. Integration of these elements can help curate a healthy and delightful environment that uplifts not just our physical health but also our mental and emotional well-being. An innovative and balanced blend of design elements like light, colours, shapes, and spatial planning creates a thought-provoking and pleasant build environment. Thus, architects compose a conscious design utilizing different forms, functions, colours, and natural elements like sunlight and fresh air to evoke a nurturing and habitable space.

Sources

• https://www.woarchitect.com/how-can-the-psychological-impact-of-light-and-color-be-used-to-improve-living-spaces
• https://maynardarchitects.com/#/353628916383/
• https://www.bgw-architects.com/architecture-and-behavior/
• https://www.archdaily.com/873011/my-house-the-mental-health-house-austin-maynard-architects