Designing Spaces that Support Well-being

By Ryley Posey, 2025 Career and Leadership Development Grant Awardee

The spaces we spend time in affect how we feel, think, and function. While our environment cannot solve every challenge we face, thoughtful design choices can support our well being at home, at work, and within our communities. Research in environmental psychology suggests that elements such as color, lighting, spaciousness, and natural materials can influence our mood, stress levels, and ability to focus. 

First, consider color and lighting. Different colors evoke different emotional responses. Bold, saturated colors such as bright reds tend to feel energetic and stimulating, while softer, muted tones often create a greater sense of calm. Lighting has a similar effect. Harsh, cool toned lighting can feel more alerting, whereas warm, softer light often creates a more relaxing atmosphere. Small changes, such as choosing warmer light bulbs or incorporating calming color palettes, can help create spaces that feel more restorative. 

Next, think about spaciousness and the shapes within a room. A space with high ceilings often feels open and freeing, while a cluttered or crowded room can feel mentally overwhelming. Even in a smaller home or office, using lighter wall colors, mirrors, and thoughtfully arranged furniture can create a greater sense of openness. Rounded, organic shapes in furniture and décor may also contribute to a softer, more welcoming environment, reflecting the forms commonly found in nature. 

Finally, consider bringing natural elements into your space. Houseplants, fresh flowers, natural wood, stone, and views of trees or gardens can all help a room feel more alive. Many studies have found that spending time around nature, or even incorporating natural elements indoors, can reduce stress and improve our sense of wellbeing. When selecting materials for your home, it is also worth considering products with low chemical emissions, as indoor air quality contributes to the health of our living environments. 

The goal is not to create a picture-perfect home. Rather, it is to intentionally shape spaces that help you feel calmer, think more clearly, and support the way you want to live. Even small changes: a warmer light bulb, one healthy plant, or a decluttered workspace, can have a meaningful impact over time. By thoughtfully considering color, lighting, space, and natural elements, we can create environments that care for us as much as we care for them.