Spatial Therapy: Elevating Human Wellness through Multisensory Design

Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt a sense of calm and tranquility wash over you? Or perhaps you've experienced the opposite – entering a space that felt chaotic and unsettling. The impact of spatial design on the human brain is profound and often underestimated.

Spatial therapy is a multidisciplinary approach that recognizes the profound influence of spatial design on human well-being. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of the physical environment and the human experience, aiming to create spaces that promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Through intentional sensory design choices, spatial therapy seeks to optimize the sensory experiences of individuals within a given space, ultimately contributing to their overall quality of life. From the use of light, to the colors on the walls to the choice of furniture and the incorporation of natural elements, every aspect of interior design can have a positive impact.

Below, we examine specific case studies and research findings, providing a deeper understanding of how evidence-based principles such as biophilic design, embodied cognition, color psychology, and multisensory integration can be harnessed to elevate human experiences in the built environment.

  • Nature is Energy Efficient.

  • Nature is Dynamic.

  • Nature is constantly Morphing.

  • Nature Integrates its own components.

  • Nature achieves impact through Balance.

  • Nature is Multisensory.

  • We appreciate nature using all of our Senses.

Stimulate Movement and Wander through Material Light

Material Light is a metaphysical event. It occurs at the instant light meets the surface of physical matter and reveals its phenomenological qualities. Light reveals texture and depth, or by its absence, shade and shadow.

Scientific research has demonstrated that dynamic atmospheres, particularly those created through material light, can contribute to reduced stress, improved focus, and enhanced creativity.

Embody Nature’s Sensory Attributes through Materials and Finishes

Innovative sustainable materials that mimic natural textures and aesthetics while reducing environmental impact are gaining prominence in the design industry. 

In a recent behavioral study conducted by Arigami, for furniture manufacturer Kimball International, researchers identified nature-like decor, finishes and ambience, amongst the top elements most desired to increase a sense of belonging at the workplace, higher education and healthcare.  .

Increase Focus and Comfort with Ergonomic Furniture

Ergonomic furniture is designed to support the body in a way that promotes a healthy posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury. The benefits of using ergonomic furniture extend beyond physical health; they can significantly impact productivity and overall wellbeing.

A recent report by Digby Brown Solicitors revealed that a large proportion of the 600,000 or so workplace injuries recorded every year in the UK, can be rooted back to outdated and unsafe office furniture

Embrace Eco-Friendly and Multisensory Shower Solutions

People are increasingly seeking personal hygiene products that not only cleanse the body but also provide a multisensory experience. One fascinating aspect of this trend is the utilization of natural aromas to transform our daily shower into an olfactory journey. 

Results of lab studies conducted at Johns Hopkins found that certain essential oils could kill a type of Lyme bacteria better than antibiotics. It’s important to note that results in human clinical trials are mixed.

Calm the Senses with Soothing Digital Art

Scientific evidence has shed light on the profound impact of guided art imagery on wellness. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing overall mood, digital art has the potential to positively influence brain function and emotional state. 

According to the journal Frontiers in Psychology, utilizing guided imagery (GI), in particular of nature scenes or abstract art, can help reduce anxiety symptoms.

Amplify Natural Views with Mirrored Facades

By strategically positioning mirrors and utilizing reflective materials, designers can effectively amplify the presence of natural light, thus enhancing the overall ambiance of a room. 

This not only reduces the reliance on artificial lighting but also contributes to a more sustainable and energy-efficient built environment. This technique provides a refreshing visual escape for occupants but also engenders a profound sense of openness and spaciousness within confined spaces.

Leverage the Noise Reducing Properties
of Plants

One way to create a welcoming, stress-free environment is through reducing the unwanted noise in the built environment. Noise reduction is one of those less-known benefits of plants. 

Plant parts such as stems, leaves, branches, wood, etc. absorb sound. Rough bark and thick, fleshy leaves are particularly effective at absorbing sound due to their dynamic surface area. When sound waves hit a flexible material, the material will vibrate and the waves are transformed into other forms of energy as well as being deflected in other directions.

Select Transformative Fabrics like Plant-Based Vegan Leathers

The eco-friendly benefits of plant-based vegan leathers extend beyond the absence of animal products. These materials contribute to the reduction of environmental impact by minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and excessive water consumption often associated with traditional leather production.

Plant-based vegan leathers have been developed from cactus, pineapple, mushrooms (Phellinus ellipsoideus), bananas, grapes, and coffee, to name just a few.

 

Arigami’s research was presented at the 2024 Global Wellness Summit Wellness Real Estate & Communities Symposium, on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at JPMorgan Chase headquarters in Manhattan.

We had deep discussions led by industry leaders from real estate, investment, architecture, design, technology, medicine, and sustainability. Discover the trends shaping the future of wellness real estate, from the democratization of wellness-focused housing to the rapid integration of health-enhancing technologies into building design. Learn how wellness principles are revolutionizing healthcare facilities and understand the rise of longevity programming in housing design...