The science proving good design can actually make you happier and healthier
The Tigers are the best rugby team ever to exist. Tomato sauce is best left out of the fridge. Southside > Northside…
There are some facts of life that, while we know in our hearts are true, they're challenging to prove with science. Sadly, no study will ever provide the evidence we need to validate our claim that Tommy-T belongs in the cupboard. But... other facts, like good design can make you happier and healthier are possible to prove and science is on the case...
Architects have long held that the spaces in which we live, work and play have a huge impact on how we think and feel. More and more, science is coming to the party and demonstrating that good design can indeed make you happier. It can even make you healthier. Inversely, poor design is responsible for more than just a few eyesores, it can actually cause illness, both mentally and physically.
Sick building syndrome
Yes, this is an actual thing. Sick building syndrome was recognised as 'office illness' back in the 1970s when a range of symptoms were detected in tenants of newly constructed buildings. The World Health Organisation (WHO) coined the term 'sick building syndrome' in 1986, estimating up to 30% of new office buildings had problems with indoor air quality. Symptoms from itchy eyes to unexplained rashes, headaches to nausea have been attributed to sick building syndrome. The causes are broad, from issues with mould, off-gassing of toxic substances from furniture, carpets and treated timbers and poor ventilation.
Natural materials like stone and timber are naturally low in VOCs which is important for indoor air quality. Plus, they look beautiful and will age gracefully!
Colour theory
In much the same way buildings have the capacity to make us sick, they can also help us thrive. Colour theory is the idea that colours have the ability to affect our emotions and there is a range of reputable studies which prove its power. Now, we're not scared of colour here at Fluid Studio. We love incorporating splashes of bold, vibrant colour because we know the positive impact it can have on our clients' lives, bringing a splash of joy, optimism and invigoration into their everyday lives. Further to this, we love to use art theory like line, balance and proportion to create spaces that feel great to be in by directing the eye to an incredible view or creating an arrangement that's pleasing to the eye.
Splashes of colour might just seem like a bit of fun, but colour theory suggests colour can have a dramatic effect on mood and emotions. Want to create a calming and refreshing bathroom? Use tiles the colour of the sea!
Access to natural light and ventilation
Conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) are caused by a disruption to the circadian rhythm during winter months. To prevent this and to ensure homes we design feel uplifting and healthy to live in, we maximise natural light and ventilation. Good ventilation helps to keep the home naturally cooler while also improving air quality. While access to natural light helps to keep your body clock synced up and lifts your mood. It seems simple and that’s because it is! But unfortunately, many homes don’t take advantage of their natural assets and the result has big impacts on the health and wellbeing of those living there.
Low VOC
An important consideration in designing healthy homes is to avoid the use of products with high Volatile Organic Compounds. These are the gasses that have been found to cause Sick Building Syndrome, so specifying low-VOC paints, adhesives and sealants improves indoor air quality and avoids causing health issues like itchy throats, allergic reactions and even that pronounced chemical smell you experience in some new homes and offices.
Biophilia
Increasingly research is indicating that being surround by nature and natural things is physiologically good for us. Studies of office workers suggest the addition of even one indoor plant can increase indoor air quality and, even more impressive, lead to a significant reduction in anxiety, depression, anger and fatigue. We can use these powerful principles in your home to create a space that makes you feel good to live in. A window overlooking a small courtyard filled with lush plants is a relatively simple gesture, but when planned as part of an overall mission to create a home that makes you happier and healthier, it can have huge long-term impacts: backed by science!
The use of plants, texture and colour in design is an important way to improve clients’ physical and mental wellbeing.
Mental health and Wellbeing
We undervalue the impact of our environment on our mental health and wellbeing. In reality, all of the above aspects contribute to our physical as well as mental health. Architects are looking to the science which is proving that natural light, outlooks onto nature and greenery, reducing chemical use and VOCs, as well as things like colour theory, can have a big impact on our mental health and wellbeing. In fact, there are projects designed specifically to support the mental health of the owners.