Ways to improve mental wellbeing through interior design

Juggling a stressful job with family commitments, not to mention a lack of ‘me time’, busy lifestyles can take their toll on our mental wellbeing. As we spend the majority of our lives indoors in our own homes, our domestic surroundings can have a real impact on our emotions and how we feel.

In short, our choice of interior design can have a direct influence on mental wellbeing. There are certain styles, colours and designs that are said to help improve mental health.

Check out the tips below on ways to improve mental health through interior design.

Opt for a minimalist design

Too much clutter does little in clearing and calming the mind. Opting for a minimalist style that is devoid of mess and clutter and is centred on the concept that ‘less is more’, can go a long way in improving our mood and mindset. Not only can a minimalist style create feelings of orderliness, but it is easy to maintain, which can also give our mental wellbeing a boost.

Let in plenty of daylight

Natural daylight filtering into a room is directly associated with increasing the amount of serotonin – the ‘feel good’ hormone – in our bodies. Contrastingly, a room that is dark, dingy, lacking in natural light and relies on superficial lighting, can have a negative impact on our mood.

When designing any kind of living space, make working as much natural light into the room as possible, a priority. Skylights, large windows and bifold doors, are all sure-fire ways to soak a space in natural light and boost moods in the process.

Bring the outside inside

The impact nature has on our mental wellbeing has been long documented and stressed. Bringing elements of nature indoors, such as indoor plants and vases of flowers, can work wonders in improving our mood and wellbeing. Studies have shown that plant life indoors can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Think carefully about the choice of colour

The psychology of colour is an intriguing aspect of interior design and one that should not be overlooked. Certain shades are synonymous with certain emotions and moods. When designing a home with mental wellbeing in mind, it is therefore important to be aware of the colours that are believed to enhance the mood and avoid the ones said to have a negative impact on our emotions.

For example, warm tones of red, orange and yellow, are known for evoking high emotions including feelings of comfort and warmth. Colours on the blue side of the spectrum, including purples, green and blues, are often described as creating feelings of calm.

However, the feelings colour creates can be personal, and therefore needs to be considered closely before determining the colour scheme in your home.