The concept of healing through architectural design is not a new one. For centuries, man has constructed monuments and buildings that promote well-being and help soothe the senses. From peaceful and palatial gardens to contemplative churches, mosques and monasteries that effortlessly evoke a reverence for the Divine, the healing power of architecture has always been a part of our history.
In more recent years, this concept has been applied in the field of healthcare, influencing the design of hospitals and medical facilities to enhance the comfort and well-being of patients. There have been numerous studies over the years that have attested to the positive impact of architectural design on patients’ well-being, safety and their experience of stress, and you can learn more about this topic by reading these healthcare architecture tips. In this post, we will explore some of the ways architectural design can help to promote healing.
The Inclusion of Nature
The therapeutic effects of nature can have great benefits when integrated into architectural design. From large open spaces, providing panoramic vistas of forests, sunsets and mountains to the sounds of water or birds, these elements can create environments that nurture both physical and emotional well-being.
In the field of architecture, the incorporation of nature, known as biophilic design, strives to design spaces that foster well-being, boost productivity, and enhance the sustainability of buildings. Examples of biophilic design include the following:
- Addition of plants and trees: This includes indoor plants which are known to have a calming effect and can improve indoor air quality, green roofs on buildings, and living walls covered with climbing plants such as English ivy and morning glory.
- Water features: The soothing qualities of water can be incorporated through water features such as indoor fountains, aquariums, and ponds.
- Natural materials: The introduction of natural materials like stone, wood, and timber in furniture and building structures.
These elements all help to foster a closer connection with nature and its healing properties.
The Importance of Natural Light
Incorporating natural light into architectural design is a vital aspect in creating a healing environment. The importance of daylight in aiding health and well-being has been recognized by ancient civilizations. In more recent times, studies such as those carried out by the International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Applied Sciences & Technologies (ITJEMAST) have found that natural light inside hospital rooms supports the physical and psychological well-being of patients, and accelerates their healing.
Findings such as this are helpful when it comes to optimum window design and other apertures such as skylights, ensuring architectural design includes maximum access to natural light for human health and well-being.
Healing Colour Schemes
Colour therapy confirms the power that colour has to affect our mental state, energy levels and emotions. By incorporating these findings into architectural design, visitors can reap the healing benefits offered.
- Green is considered one of the most healing colours. Associated with nature and the heart chakra, its incorporation into design can help to soothe and balance.
- Yellow is considered an optimistic colour. Associated with sunshine, yellows and golds can promote a feeling of cheerfulness, helping to relieve anxiety and depression.
- Blue is a cooling and calming colour which can inspire inner peace.
Final Thoughts
By integrating these various elements into architectural and interior design, environments that are soothing, promote healing and enjoyable to be in can be created.
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