Can architecture affect ones mood?

We spend the majority of our lives indoors; so the bulk of our surrounding environment being man-made structures means that certain moods and activities in mind. The exteriors and interiors of buildings can have a large impact on how we use, enjoy and perceive the space- therefore, building and designing with certain aspects and features in mind can help to impact the inhabitants in the desired way. This blog post will focus on interiors and exteriors of buildings and how they can affect the mood of users and inhabitants.

Image 1- Fountain feature with plants outside the entrance (Limestone, n.a.)

In terms of exteriors of buildings, one key feature seen across many projects is connecting the natural world with the interior, and having a seamless transition from outside to inside. This is becoming more and more frequently used in the architecture industry, as our connection with nature grows stronger. A staple feature used at entrances of many buildings is a water feature or plants and greenery (see image 1 above). This creates a calming atmosphere before entering the space and improves the well-being of the inhabitants. The use of outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces linked to a building can also help the well-being of inhabitants and has been proven to boost productivity and create a more comfortable environment (Mihara, K. et al., 2022). Linking the exterior to the interior space can be made easier and smoother with the use of natural light being let in- again, bringing the natural world inside (Kirsch, D. 2023). The use of natural light inside helps to reduce stress, increase positive emotions and improve overall well-being; whereas artificial light offers poor sleep quality and enhances negative emotions (Kirsch, D. 2023).

Image 2- High ceilings used in a residential building (Fabdiz, n.a.)

The arrangement of the interior can also affect the mood of inhabitants and how they use the space. For instance, high ceilings let lots of natural light in and create a less constrained and more free space with more flow for creative space (see image 2 above), such as living and social areas, and architectural studio spaces (Anthes, E., 2009). Low ceilings provide more confinement and therefore are ideal for more detailed and statistical work, used for surgical or operation rooms where a lot of concentration is needed (Anthes, E., 2009). Features such as: sound, acoustics, smells, textures and materials can also enhance the sensory experience and help to transform a dull space and lift the moods of the inhabitants (Kirsch, D., 2023). Furthermore, colour theory is really important, as 87% of all sensory information received is from colours (Ćurĉić, A., et al., 2019). For instance, red is the most vibrant and can help stimulate emotions and moods of passion, love, power and attracts immediate attention; whereas, blue has a calming affect and represents harmony and peace (Ćurĉić, A., et al., 2019).

An experiment carried out by John R. Troutman tested how males and females subconsciously viewed 'hard' design (cement wall, flat roof, no windows) and 'soft' design (angled roof, windows), based on how they rated a therapist talking in front of both 'hard' and 'soft' backgrounds. It was found that the male subjects rated the therapist higher with the 'hard' exterior as a background, as it is associated with strength, functionality, and power (Troutman, J., R., 2012). Whereas, the female subjects, on average, rated the therapist higher with the 'soft' design as a background, as the 'hard' design was viewed as cold, overbearing and impersonal (Troutman, J., R., 2012). It was found that, people develop mental representations based on exteriors of buildings and past experiences- exteriors can cause avoidance or approach behaviours based on cultural and personal influences (Troutman, J., R., 2012).

Therefore, the design of interiors and exteriors of buildings can have an effect on the moods and emotions of inhabitants, occupants or passers-by.

References:

Anthes, E. (2009). How room designs affect your work and mood. Scientific American.

Ćurĉić, A., Kekovic, A., Ranđelović, D., & Momcilovic-Petronijevic, A. (2019). Effects of color in interior design. Zbornik radova Građevinskog fakulteta, 35, 867-877.

Fabdiz. (n.a.) Designer's perspectives: High Ceilings In Interior Design. https://fabdiz.com/designers-perspectives-high-ceilings-in-interior-design/

Kirsh, D. (2023). Atmosphere, mood, and scientific explanation. Frontiers in Computer Science, 5, 1154737.

Limestone. (n.a.) Add A Limestone Fountain To Your Entrance. https://www.limestone.com/about-us/limestone-learning-center/add-limestone-fountain-entrance/

Mihara, K., Chen, S., Hasama, T., Tan, C. L., Lee, J. K. W., & Wong, N. H. (2022). Environmental satisfaction, mood and cognitive performance in semi-outdoor space in the tropics. Building and Environment, 216, 109051.

Troutman, J. R. (2012). Effects of interior and exterior building design on perceived competence (Doctoral dissertation).