The Psychological Impact of Architectural Design

Abstract

The theory of this thesis is to consider the relationship between the built environment and its psychological impact. The average person spends about 80-90% of their time indoors. Space, colors, aesthetics, materials, green design and acoustics are all engaging factors of design that play a significant role in providing the user with a psychological experience, and designers can enhance this experience. This thesis focuses on contextual factors, such as the understanding and analysis of the built environment as well as theoretical research which references the effect the built environment has on our psychological experience. The goal of this thesis is to establish an ideology that summarizes how to manipulate design to enhance each user’s psychological experience. This theory would establish an understanding of the complex relationship between design and psychology. Better yet, how we can assist in systematic design that builds a relationship through psychological experience. This idea begins with design analysis, then resonates to the function and formation of each space. This study will guide us to question: What are the specific ways in which architectural design influences psychology? A way to resolve this question is to consider key aspects of this research proposal, such as literature sources and case studies. Case studies enable us to record past projects that initiate a relationship between design and psychological response. The validation of scientific studies provides a dominant argument when trying to present a theoretical issue. Specific validation comes from two articles, the first is a scientific study done to regard, “Architecture for Well Being and Health” by Koen Steemers, the second is a research lab report done by researchers in Rochester, MN called the WELL Living Lab. The lab supported a scientific experiment, done to process the effects of a physical environment on our mental well being. Through research, the ability to derive the positive and negative effects of design on psychology will provide me with the knowledge needed to design a space that considers the importance of psychological experience in the form of space, colors, aesthetics, materials, green design and acoustics. This opportunity allows me to advocate for the importance of the connection between psychology and design on the deepest level.