Class
Article
College
Caine College of the Arts
Department
Art and Design Department
Faculty Mentor
Susie Tibbitts
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
This research project explores the impact of design on mental and physical health, emphasizing its role within healthcare and therapy settings. Delving into the specific connections between environmental design and human well-being, this study investigates how thoughtful design principles influence quality of life. It also explores the physical health benefits gained from well-designed spaces, access to natural light, ergonomic considerations, and good air quality. Recognizing the holistic approach in Eastern medicine, Haven explores how traditional healing philosophies can connect with modern design principles.
Unique challenges are presented in patient-centered settings. where the impact of design extends beyond aesthetics. Design elements such as comfortable healing spaces, color psychology, natural artwork, and plants are examined for their potential to alleviate stress and anxiety. Concepts from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and other Eastern practices consist of elements such as balance, energy flow, and interconnectedness. The incorporation of natural elements and the use of Feng Shui in mindful spaces can positively influence mental health outcomes. Furthermore, components of Eastern medicine can guide design choices.
Through a review of existing literature, studies, and case analyses, this research uses evidence to state the vital role of design in creating optimal healing environments. Bridging the gap between Western and Eastern practices leads to a more inclusive and effective strategy for healthcare design. By combining insights from both sides, a comprehensive approach to designing for wellness is created. By understanding this relationship, Haven provides a foundation for advancements in design strategies that aim at improving well-being.
There are four dimens ions of the physical environment that are impactful to wellness. Sensory design elements such as color and texture, engagement qualities such as distractions, relational aspects such as privacy and connection, and emotions such as feeling safe, calm, and creative. These dimensions of the physical environment can serve as measurements for design success when it comes to facilitating mental health recovery. Exposure to greenery has been found to improve mental health as it creates relaxing visual stimulation. Elements that contribute to recovery most highly are soft and neutral colors, natural light, and experiencing aspects of nature. Things that induce anxiety are clashing colors, harsh lighting, clutter, and busy patterns. It has also been found in studies that patients are more likely to feel calm in open areas that allow them to maintain their personal space.
Studies reveal that incorporating Feng Shui principles into the design of patient rooms positively impacts recovery rates. Feng Shui is essentially using natural elements to manipulate man-made structures and improve wellness. There are a large number of similarities between the ancient findings of Feng Shui and the modern architectural theory of Biophilia. Seemingly opposing constructs supply an alternative approach to healthcare design when combined. These theories address the link between our physical senses and our emotional spirit when analyzing a design.
The five elements of eastern practices (wood, earth, fire, metal, and water) can be translated into a design context. Each of these materials has different characteristics, colors, and shapes attached. Everything in the universe can be found in these. Understanding these traits and elements can help to effectively design any space based on the desired psychological effects. Biophilia states that “every human being is born with an inherent attraction to nature or other living creatures, both conscious and unconsciously.” Natural presence in daily life is incredibly valuable and important for physical and spiritual well-being.
In conclusion the combination of Western and Eastern approaches can be combined to shape the future of healthcare design. Moving forward, the goal should be to create inclusive healing spaces that embrace ancient traditions and redefine the standard of what good design is. As designers, we have the power to drastically improve the experience and well-being of those we create spaces for. Most individuals view visiting a healthcare facility as a stressful event. The power of design can make these feelings worse, or help turn it into a more positive experience. There is an opportunity to cater design to human senses and reap the potential health benefits. Through this lens, design becomes a proactive tool for promoting health and preventing illness. This approach aligns with a growing recognition in the healthcare industry of the importance of treating the whole person, not just isolated elements.
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
4-10-2024 11:30 AM
End Date
4-10-2024 12:20 PM
Included in
Human Centered Design
Logan, UT
This research project explores the impact of design on mental and physical health, emphasizing its role within healthcare and therapy settings. Delving into the specific connections between environmental design and human well-being, this study investigates how thoughtful design principles influence quality of life. It also explores the physical health benefits gained from well-designed spaces, access to natural light, ergonomic considerations, and good air quality. Recognizing the holistic approach in Eastern medicine, Haven explores how traditional healing philosophies can connect with modern design principles.
Unique challenges are presented in patient-centered settings. where the impact of design extends beyond aesthetics. Design elements such as comfortable healing spaces, color psychology, natural artwork, and plants are examined for their potential to alleviate stress and anxiety. Concepts from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and other Eastern practices consist of elements such as balance, energy flow, and interconnectedness. The incorporation of natural elements and the use of Feng Shui in mindful spaces can positively influence mental health outcomes. Furthermore, components of Eastern medicine can guide design choices.
Through a review of existing literature, studies, and case analyses, this research uses evidence to state the vital role of design in creating optimal healing environments. Bridging the gap between Western and Eastern practices leads to a more inclusive and effective strategy for healthcare design. By combining insights from both sides, a comprehensive approach to designing for wellness is created. By understanding this relationship, Haven provides a foundation for advancements in design strategies that aim at improving well-being.
There are four dimens ions of the physical environment that are impactful to wellness. Sensory design elements such as color and texture, engagement qualities such as distractions, relational aspects such as privacy and connection, and emotions such as feeling safe, calm, and creative. These dimensions of the physical environment can serve as measurements for design success when it comes to facilitating mental health recovery. Exposure to greenery has been found to improve mental health as it creates relaxing visual stimulation. Elements that contribute to recovery most highly are soft and neutral colors, natural light, and experiencing aspects of nature. Things that induce anxiety are clashing colors, harsh lighting, clutter, and busy patterns. It has also been found in studies that patients are more likely to feel calm in open areas that allow them to maintain their personal space.
Studies reveal that incorporating Feng Shui principles into the design of patient rooms positively impacts recovery rates. Feng Shui is essentially using natural elements to manipulate man-made structures and improve wellness. There are a large number of similarities between the ancient findings of Feng Shui and the modern architectural theory of Biophilia. Seemingly opposing constructs supply an alternative approach to healthcare design when combined. These theories address the link between our physical senses and our emotional spirit when analyzing a design.
The five elements of eastern practices (wood, earth, fire, metal, and water) can be translated into a design context. Each of these materials has different characteristics, colors, and shapes attached. Everything in the universe can be found in these. Understanding these traits and elements can help to effectively design any space based on the desired psychological effects. Biophilia states that “every human being is born with an inherent attraction to nature or other living creatures, both conscious and unconsciously.” Natural presence in daily life is incredibly valuable and important for physical and spiritual well-being.
In conclusion the combination of Western and Eastern approaches can be combined to shape the future of healthcare design. Moving forward, the goal should be to create inclusive healing spaces that embrace ancient traditions and redefine the standard of what good design is. As designers, we have the power to drastically improve the experience and well-being of those we create spaces for. Most individuals view visiting a healthcare facility as a stressful event. The power of design can make these feelings worse, or help turn it into a more positive experience. There is an opportunity to cater design to human senses and reap the potential health benefits. Through this lens, design becomes a proactive tool for promoting health and preventing illness. This approach aligns with a growing recognition in the healthcare industry of the importance of treating the whole person, not just isolated elements.