The psychology of space has an impact on health and happiness. 

Environmental psychology is an evolving field that looks at how the built environment affects a person’s physical and mental well-being.  

With society spending most days in and around buildings, the architecture and interior design of these environments have an enormous effect on your mood, productivity and overall quality of life.  

The function of environment 

Landseer Collen, Principal Architect at BPAS Architects (BPAS), says the psychological contributors that will work in a particular space are linked to the function of a building. “The Constitutional Court of South Africa is an excellent example. The court differs from typical courts in that it is open and transparent. It has a welcoming, airy foyer with playful, slanted columns and colourful mosaic tiling. 

“Another example is the use of space in the education sector, where BPAS does a great deal of work. Principles such as colour, wayfinding, light and acoustic quality are key aspects that impact the well-being of its users, who are learners in this instance.” 

Including greenery and natural views into building design has been shown to reduce stress and improve the mood.

Architecture of happiness 

Speaking on the writings of Alain de Botton, Collen explains how sensory experiences and memories contribute to creating a happy space. 

“The challenge of designing spaces that capture the essence of different experiences, such as day and night, seasons and natural elements, all impact on the psychological factors and the perception of architectural environments. 

“What the person is feeling, and what they bring with them into the space, impacts on how they experience the space. The design may amplify or offset that emotion,” he says.  

Ventilation and light 

Collen says that some of the most important elements to consider when creating spaces that have a positive effect on your health are ventilation, natural light, temperature, colour and flexibility. “Studies have shown that exposure to natural light significantly improves your mood, reduces the risk of depression and increases overall happiness.” 

Collen cites the example of iconic churches, which are very structured and hierarchical, yet not oppressive. This is because of the light filtering through the colourful stained-glass windows into the interior. He refers to the Sagrada Familia to highlight the use of light and materials in architectural design. In a modern reference, the Norval Foundation, by DHK Architects, orientated the building to allow natural light and vista’s as part of the user experience.   

Proper ventilation is vital for maintaining good indoor air quality, which directly impacts a person’s health. Adequate ventilation reduces indoor pollutants and allergens, which helps to prevent respiratory issues and promote cognitive function. Studies have shown that well-ventilated environments can reduce stress and improve mental clarity and productivity.  

The diversity of emotions and experiences that individuals bring to spaces, underscores the importance of considering multiple perspectives in space making.

Balancing practical and psychological elements 

“Creating shared spaces that also cater to individual needs can be challenging, yet it is crucial to design flexible spaces that can be easily adapted. Movable partitions, adjustable lighting and reconfigurable furniture allow individuals to personalise their environment.  

“This adaptability enhances comfort and addresses various psychological needs, as control over our environment is linked to increased satisfaction and well-being,” says Collen. 

He adds that some other key psychological principles to be considered in architectural design are:  

• Incorporating natural elements into buildings (which is also called biophilia) and large openings to enhance the connection with nature. Greenery and natural views have been shown to reduce stress and improve the mood. 
• The strategic use of colour has a significant impact on how people experience a space. For example, in healthcare facilities, using soft, warm tones, such as blues and greens, conveys calmness, reducing anxiety and stress. This creates a more conducive environment for recovery, which in turn contributes to patient satisfaction. 
• In schools, the use of colour is very important as it is messaging beyond just vibrancy. Less white and more colour encourage play and ownership of the space by the pupils  
• Wayfinding in buildings is based on layout planning, material use and signature, and good wayfinding makes it easier to navigate larger buildings, which in turn reduces stress. 

Human attention in spaces 

Referencing the shift in work preferences post-Covid-19, Collen emphasised the challenges of open-plan offices and the desire for a collaborative work environment. The impact of the physical workspace on psychology and productivity is highlighted by comparing the needs of staff.  

The diversity of emotions and experiences that individuals bring to spaces underscores the importance of considering multiple perspectives in space making. “Human attention is crucial to defining spaces,” says Collen.  

There are those who greatly enjoy the experience of working independently from home, versus those who express a need for a more balanced work-life setup, with work removed from the home environment.  

Supportive environments 

Creating environments that support mental and physical well-being is crucial. Elements such as natural lighting, ventilation and well-considered colour choices not only enhance the aesthetic and functional aspects of spaces but also contribute significantly to the health and productivity of the occupants.  

Good design principles together with recognising that each space has a different expression for the individual users, aids in creating happy spaces.  

Full acknowledgement and thanks go to https://www.bpas.co.za/ for the information in this article.