Our demanding work schedules and other social responsibilities are significant sources of mental health troubles. However, your surroundings and living spaces can also leave you feeling alone and unmotivated. Several studies show that there is a link between mental health and interior design. Some designs like cluttered spaces with bold decorations can be sources of stress, while others alleviate anxiety and make your home a sanctuary of comfort. It would help to rethink designs that improve productivity, efficiency and focus. Here are some interior designs to consider for elevating your mood:
Minimalist Designs
Cramped up space and clutter can dampen your mood and increase stress. Many people feel confined by small spaces and cannot think clearly, hence reducing productivity. The same happens in overly decorated rooms with bold colours and décor that makes the space stuffy. A minimalist design concept creates a spacious environment that expands your spirit and improves your mood. You do not need a big house with high ceilings to enjoy the positive effects of spacious environments. You can recreate a sense of openness with the right design, lighting, furniture and interior organisation. Begin with de-cluttering your home to create an open and airy environment that promotes the flow of ideas. Your furniture arrangement should also foster social interaction and provide an inviting environment to boost your mental well-being.
Introduce Natural Light
It is no secret that sunlight boosts serotonin production, which lifts your mood, so let in natural light through your doors or windows. With the unpredictable weather, many people use blinds and curtains for warmth during winter. However, store away your awnings and curtains during summer. Look for creative ways to light up your living space with sunrays. You can apply window films to reduce the penetration of UV light and to improve privacy. If you are working at home, you should place your sofa or desk near a window with adequate natural light to improve productivity. If your living space is naturally dark, you can use reflective surfaces or mirrors to amplify sunlight.
Adopt a Biophilic Design
Incorporating natural elements like water, stone, fire or wood into a living space brings calmness to your home. You can start by introducing greenery like plants or flowers. Apart from brightening your interior, they promote a positive psychological state and improve cognitive performance. Plants will also boost air quality in your home. You can also find small decorative items made from metal or stones to bring in other natural elements. Biophilic designs also use wood flooring to bring nature closer. That is why homes with wood flooring are more inviting and warm compared to other floor types. The wood provides classic beauty that reminds you of the outdoors and uplifts your mood.
Colour and Psychology
What colour scheme does your house have? Does it make you anxious, stressed and nervous, or relaxed and calm? Colour is a critical mood-altering design element with different hues providing various psychological effects. The brightness and colour saturation can have different effects on one’s emotions. Brighter shades are less saturated, providing lighter and pale tones that have a relaxing effect. For instance, true red can cause anxiety while its pale hues like blush pink are brighter and less saturated, giving a calming and soothing effect. Colours associated with warmth are yellow, red and orange, while colour tones with relaxing and calming effects are blue, green and purple. If your current colour palette enhances anxiety, consider repainting even a single wall to improve the overall feel of your home.
Indulge in Art
Blank walls can be depressing even with the right colour palette. Therefore, you should find creative ways to add a few decorative elements to bare walls. You can also incorporate décor and small decorative items in various rooms to elevate your mood. Since art is subjective, find art that stimulates happy thoughts and positive vibes. Small sculptures and pretty vases on the bookshelf or bathroom vanity will improve your emotional state. Novelty pieces of furniture and a beautiful rug can also add a touch of luxury and raise your spirits.
Rethink Your Layout
If the layout of any room is draining your mood, rearrange the space. For instance, it can be frustrating to walk around items when leaving or entering the room. Be creative and experiment with new layouts until the room feels calm and serene instead of messy or stuffy. Rearranging a room can also make it spacious and airy, allowing increased productivity.
We all want a safe space to relax and unwind after a long and stressful day. If your space does not support your emotional well-being, it is time to rethink your interior design and make some changes. You can do a complete overhaul or tweak a few aspects to boost your mood.
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