Interior Design for Well-Being and Happiness

"We build structures to protect ourselves- from nature and other forces. And we spend increasing amount of time in these structures, living more than 90% of our life indoors. Our buildings are designed to keep us safe, to protect us from the elements. But many of the places where we spend our time also get in the way of our health, putting one degree of separation between us and that which has always kept us alive".

WELL Building Standard

It's been a year. A whole 12 months of mostly being stuck indoors without a chance of going out to a pub or restaurant, seeing family and friends, embarking on a daily commute or sweating ones bum off in an endorphin-inducing gym class. The pandemic has had a huge impact on our mental well-being, not only due to financial implications so many have faced over this period but simply by the lack of freedom and inability to escape our homes. The cabin fever syndrome is real and only natural when dealing with the overwhelm of everyday household problems and projects. The world has changed indefinitely and it will take a reasonable amount of time to get back to anything vaguely normal, if ever, so the perception of how we treat our living spaces needs to adjust too. Our homes need to adapt to the "new normal" and improve their performance as no longer are they just places to relax and provide the escape from the outside world and wildly spreading virus but multi-tasking machines, geared up to deal with all of our daily demands. They've become schools, gyms, offices, bars and restaurants, places of stimulation and refuge. But what if they didn't provide that wanted escape and peace in the first place, and now, we just feel in-prisoned and suffocated by the four walls without a possibility to get the freedom elsewhere?

What is it about the space that makes us feel at home? Many of us will instantly recall the homes of childhood - safe and comforting, filled with happiness and care-free laughter. Most likely we can remember the smells and the familiarity of objects, which would feel out of place if not where they were supposed to be, we focus on the sensory rather than the buildings or spaces themselves. On the most fundamental level human perception of home is reduced to the need of shelter, safety and comfort, a connection between the inside and outside world. All those elements will always provide a firm base on which we build our perception of a beautiful house and will affect our behaviour but naturally our conscious and subconscious tastes will dictate and adjust things we find attractive throughout our lives. So is it possible to think we really like something when we actually don't?

Current research in the field of neuroaesthetics supports the evidence that when it comes to design, we are all subjected to a variety of neurological responses we have absolutely no control over. An interesting experiment was conducted in 2020 in cooperation with Google and Arts&Mind Lab to explore the input of the sensory elements on our body and mind. Participants were invited to explore three newly designed rooms, fully engaging with the surroundings by feeling, smelling and touching objects whilst wearing bands measuring their physiological responses. They themselves were surprised when told that the rooms they felt calmest in weren't in fact the ones they were most attracted to visually.

We may not have all the scientific tools to measure how we feel inside our homes but there are still plenty of tricks to improve our well-being and happiness indoors.

OPEN VS SMALL

In order to achieve the ultimate balance between the relaxation and stimulation, connection and refuge we need to consider the space as a whole and as individual areas. Each person deserves to have separate zones to do things which are important to them- whether a stimulating fitness room or a quiet and dimly-lit reading nook.

" The space you create needs to support the people and the purpose, the culture, even the climate of that space"- Lily Bernheimer

The combination of open and intimate spaces will offer just that to connect with yourself and people around you. Don't be afraid to use mobile partitions, screens or room dividers to create small, isolated spaces to gain the security and intimacy. A comfortable chair with a soft blanket and a reading lamp is as important as an open, well lit area where everyone can come together, providing the connection we crave so much right now.

BIOPHILIA

The term was created by E.O Willson in 1980 as an explanation of the need and search of human's connection to nature. It's been proven that natural elements or even reminders of them have a positive effect on mental and physical health- incorporating daylight, free-flowing air, organic materials, plants and even wildlife into homes and workspaces can increase productivity and diminish anxiety and stress.

Never before had we been more grateful for the garden or even the tiniest outdoor space than during the pandemic. However big or small, an outdoor space provides another room, a refuge for when indoors become too overcrowded, a breath of fresh air. And with its natural cycle of changing light, plants coming to life at different times of year we can feel truly connected to the outside world. If you are lucky enough to have a big garden, take care of it, make sure it's pleasant to look at and not a dumping ground for all unwanted junk. If you don't have one, however, create a small oasis on the balcony or by the window, the greenery of plants will instantly calm the mind and senses.

The quality and origin of materials used within home can also have a huge impact. Similarly to the garden, the organic materials like wood, stone and natural fabrics will connect us to nature and allow the place to breathe.

I would also encourage you to think about the interior lighting. In my opinion it's one of the most important elements of design in general, it can truly transform the space. Just as the outdoor light changes throughout the day and year, we can control interior lighting to mimic the patterns of daylight, affecting our circadian rhythms and the way we feel. Of course the spacious rooms with plenty of natural light will feel fresh, airy and exude positive energy but what about creating those small, intimate spaces or mood changing surroundings? Like everything in nature, lighting works in layers, which is why the flickering light of candles or fire creates an inviting, warm and intimate environment, and indeed makes everything more attractive. Combination of lights on different eye levels, dimming options and lightbulb brightness will allow the control over the desired mood - these would include a mix of ceiling, wall and table or floor lamps. `Sometimes the answer is as easy as adding a dimmer switch allowing the control of the light output to your desired level.

There's nothing better than the comforting smell of an apple pie when you walk through the doors of your parents' house, or a fresh scent of freshly washed linen, or a clean and pure air filling your lungs after a summer rain. As I mentioned before, humans focus more on the sensory elements, smell being one of the major ones able to instantly bring good memories and calmness. There is a plethora of home scents in shape of electric and reed diffusers, candles and oil burners which can instantly transform your mood. Scents of dark woods, amber and spices will create a comfort and intimacy, citruses are energizing and uplifting while herby tones will calm and relax the senses. All of those with a combination of regular fresh air circulation will allow you to breath deeply again.

The importance of indoor plants is well and truly established as is their connection with outdoors. They are natural air filters, improving the quality of air and increasing oxygen, they also stabilise humidity, aid concentration and memory retention as well as reduce stress. Perhaps there is no need for a fully kitted jungle indoors but a small selection will make a difference. For those who claim to be plant-killers ( there are always some, and frankly I can count myself in having underwatered/ overwatered or starved them of light on occasion) there is always an option of freshly cut flowers or even cut bush branches. In my opinion they symbolise everything we need right now- the combination of strength, resilience and softness, the fresh green leaves and flower buds being the symbol of the new life, rebirth. And above all - their beauty, flash of colour and smell will bring joy and encourage us to pause and focus.

COLOURS

For thousands of years colour psychology determined the use of colour in people's lives, explaining how it affects physiological functions as well as emotions. Most of the time we don't even realise its power; used wildly as a marketing tool in advertising campaigns, colours do subconsciously affect our choices of products and services. So why wouldn't we use them to our advantage inside our homes?

Perception of colour and its attributes is determined by many factors such as gender, age and culture. Colour psychology is a study explaining how different hues affect human behaviour from taste of food to their impact on placebo and mood, however these effects are very subjective and differ between individuals depending on childhood memories, sociological associations and characters. Every colour has its positive and negative connotations which vary hugely around the world. Combination of colours and light can also affect how the space is perceived. Certain hues seen in natural light may vary when seen lit up by an artificial light source; same applies to shapes and object's positioning.

Let's take purple for example; it's usually related to wisdom, royalty, decadence and serenity and is also very popular at weddings for its affiliation with prosperity, however in some cultures it signifies anger, jealousy, depression or even death. And how does it fit with the personal connotations? Well, if your beloved Grandma had a purple kitchen or sofa, where you spent hours chatting and tasting her amazing food, the chances are, purple will signify something completely different to you and will probably be associated with warmth, love and peace. Ever wondered what makes you crave Maccy D's occasionally?

Their colour palette signifies ambition, energy, fast-action and happiness. Everything you need from a quick hit of a fast-food chain, but does it encourage long conversation at the table or a peaceful setting for home office? Nah, exactly. So next time you want to paint your living room deep burgundy, think twice- it might make you hangry- it will make you crave food but can also make you irritated.

FENG SHUI

We've all heard about Feng Shui and its supposed benefits, but what actually is it? Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy cultivated to find balance and harmony through spatial design, harmonizing the living spaces with nature. Then name translates to feng=wind and shui= water which are two absolutely crucial elements for human survival. Often referred to as the art of placement, it puts the emphasis on 9 quadrants of life and how they can be improved through the positive energy flow- "qi".

Feng Shui principles focus on the five elements: wood, earth, metal, water and fire. While each of them can be taken literally in terms of incorporation into home like wooden furniture, mirrors, plants, they also correspond to emotions, colours, shapes and a Bagua Map.

Bagua Map and its interpretation within home.

Bagua Map helps to analyse energy in any given space and suggests which elements need to be brought in to improve the flow. It can be overlaid on the layout for easier interpretation and can focus on a house as a whole or individual rooms, and therefore applying the appropriate Feng Shui principles in the spaces of your home corresponding to the areas of your life needing the improvement.

Another philosophy, with ancient Chinese roots is the Yin and Yang energy. Its presence has been cultivated and sought in many fields of life; from martial arts, medicine to Feng Shui. Focusing on a concept of duality, it demonstrates that opposite forces are interconnected, working together to create harmony. Those two energies are present everywhere we look: dark and light, hot and cold, soft and hard, smooth and textured, calm and energising, and both are needed in equal measures to sustain balance. Feng Shui is a complex study, taking years to master and follows rigorous rules. It provides guides on furniture placement within rooms, importance of materials used and furnishing choices but it also shows how simple and immediate adjustments can raise our awareness of conscious living and aid health and surroundings.

SCANDI, JAPANDI AND WABI-SABI

These three trends and consciousness living techniques, have become popular in Interior Design in the last few years. Most are probably familiar with Scandi style, which surfaced at the beginning of the 20th Century throughout the five Nordic countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland and is characterised by its simplicity, functionality and minimalism. It flourished in the 1950's hence its connection with modern furniture and modernist style, but Scandi is so much more than a design movement or style we associate with it. It came as a surprise to find that Scandinavians are amongst the happiest people in the world, with one of the lowest suicide and depression rates. Their geographical positioning, with longer nights and winters, would suggest otherwise; so what is their secret to happy living? First of all, the principle they live by is the balance between body, mind and spirit- Lagom as they would say- balance- not too much, not too little; just right. The Scandinavian spaces focus on functionality and longevity with minimal interiors in neutral colour palette, providing the connection with nature. Live plants, natural light, soft textures, light colours and Hygge- the word expressing the feeling of calm, warmth, relaxation, content, time spent with family, friends and loved ones.

Japandi style is currently taking the design world by storm, just like the Scandi influence did a decade ago. Japandi, as the name suggests, is the combination of the Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics with a minimal, functional, calming and warm look, providing reference to the natural rhythm of life and nature. Its simple and clean lines allow the eyes to rest, relax the mind and evoke consciousness and presence in the moment. It is also deeply rooted and incorporating of the Wabi-Sabi aesthetics, which are centred on the acceptance of impermanence and imperfections, appreciation of beauty that is transient, imperfect and incomplete. The ancient Japanese art called Kintsugi sees old, broken pottery pieces being put back together with gold. The philosophy doesn't just bring old pieces back to life, but is built on the idea of embracing flaws and imperfections and through that creating an even stronger, more resilient and beautiful piece of art.

QUICK TIPS

If you don't feel ready to implement any of the techniques mentioned above, here are some quick tips for instant space rejuvenation and better mood.

* Clear clutter and any unused bits and pieces on surfaces and organise your work space - it will provide an immediate rest for the eyes and mind

* Don't underestimate the power of fresh flowers and plants - they will give you the nature escape and clean the air while you sleep

* Zone your space for relaxation and activities- every home needs both and it will give you Your 5 minutes just to yourself

* Think about the surroundings and finishes like wall colour, art, furnishings- since walls cover most of your space choose a colour appropriate to the chosen activity;

* Carve out a little green space, even if just a small green pot on the windowsill- cultivate it and take care of it and it will give back by creating a serene haven and boosting your mood by accomplishing it

* Think of the layout- is it awkward or cramped? - smallest shifts and furniture shuffling can make big difference to the space and the way you feel in it

* Let the light and air in and BREATHE- open the windows to let that fresh spring air and use mirrors to reflect and bounce the light around the room

It has never been more important than now to induce some love and care into our surroundings. They've worked so hard for us in the last 12 months- it's time to do something to repay the favour. We have nearly made it, spring is round the corner, the days are longer and the sun keeps poking more often through the clouds. If there is one thing that pandemic has taught us is the ability to adapt, carry on day-by-day and step-by-step, with small victories and epic failures, only to come out wiser and more resilient. We can't change the situation Covid has put us in and can't take back the pain, suffering and losses endured during this time, but perhaps we can cut ourselves some slack and give a friendly pat on the back for making it thus far. And maybe, instead of comparing ourselves to others, we should embrace the Kintsugi art in our own life, honouring and accepting our imperfections because they are the gold; the bond that makes us stronger, more beautiful and unique.

External Links:

http://www.biid.org.uk/

http://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/

http://www.architecture.com/

References:

Bernheimer, L. (n.d.): " The shaping of us- how everyday spaces structure our lives, behaviour and well-being". Robinson

Botton de, A. (nd): " The Architecture of happiness" . Penguin

Clark, V(Oct 2020): " How to decorate for happiness and mental wellbeing ". Available from http://www.houseandgarden.co.uk

"Design for health and wellbeing" (Aug 2020). Available from: http://www.biid.org.uk

Grigoriou, E.(nd): " Wellbeing in Interiors". RIBA

Layland, P(Feb 2020): " How interior design can have an effect on your well-being"

Taylor, Ch.(Jul 2016): " Aesthetics and Wellbeing: how interior design affects your happiness". Psychology Tomorrow Magazine