The interior of your home is a reflection of your mood

Space is a crucial element of interior design. As we spend a considerable part of our lives indoors, the interior design we choose has a massive influence on our mood, feelings, behavior and physical well-being. Thus, the interior of our home must not only look good; but it should make us feel good.

Many interior design techniques and approaches have been shown to reduce stress and depression. Although making a connection between home design and emotional stability is not new, recent studies have strengthened the validity of these claims. Therefore, creating spaces with pleasant interior design can increase mental health. The business world is also paying attention to the psychological effects of interior design. Corporate designers use color, lighting, layouts, textures and artwork to create motivating, uplifting spaces that will promote efficiency, creativity, happiness, confidence.

Designers spend as much time considering mood as they do aesthetics. While many elements of interior design have been associated with improved mental health, there are a few components that seem to be mentioned again and again. The effects of light, space, plants and flowers, colors, the layout of furniture and artwork were extensively studied. These factors have the ability to influence how people feel. When used correctly, each of these design elements can create an environment conducive to reducing stress, anxiety and depression. In this article I have shown the importance of interior design in conveying a feeling of well-being, as a connecting and balancing element between all the pieces of an arrangement.

Creating the perception of space

This is about perspective – the impression a space gives when every little detail and decoration affects its whole picture. As you enter a space, your mind wanders into it, catching obvious design details.

We prefer large spaces; those that give a sense of openness, there are new approaches or studies that suggest that spaces affect the multisensory mind of people. There are several techniques to achieve this perception of space through architecture and design. Collectively, these are called "visual tricks" that can range from many things, including furniture, wall decor, color, lighting, and organization.

First of all, a clean and uncluttered space works magic. Next, another element that creates the illusion of space is lighting. Spaces that receive a generous amount of natural light through high ceilings, large windows, lighting fixtures, glass doors or mirrors on the wall will naturally give the feeling of a larger area. Light-colored furniture and interiors also achieve this effect. Creating the perception of space leads to an open mind and provides positive energy.

Opt for lots of light

When you enter a room full of natural light it effectively lifts your mood, energy and induces a happy feeling. Getting a healthy dose of sunlight boosts mood – boosts positive thoughts, creativity, productivity, better sleep.

Choose the right color palette

When your home matches your favorite color palette, this visual experience can delight you every time. But on top of that, color also provides a psychological experience. The color tones you choose can drastically affect your mood and emotions. Color is probably one of the first thoughts when it comes to mood-altering or mood-influencing design elements

Here are some universal meanings of color effects: Warm colors like red, yellow or orange can give you feelings of passion and comfort, but these highly stimulating colors can also cause anger. Cooler colors on the other side of the spectrum, such as blues, greens and purples can be peaceful, calming and show reliability or security, but they can also evoke feelings of sadness and indifference. Pale tones – such as light grey, light blue – can be more relaxing and soothing; while deeply saturated colors can appear very dull and lead to more intense and energetic feelings.

Feng Shui design styles

This is something we learn from the ancient practice of Feng Shui – shapes and textures should represent natural elements (earth, water, wood, metal and fire). The rich texture of a rug will enhance the feeling of comfort and happiness, while decorative metal elements such as a wall clock, vase, etc. will promote strength and independence. Wood elements are related to health and personal growth. The same discipline teaches us that furniture should be arranged in a way that does not create "dead space" (furniture arranged against the wall), as it stimulates negative energy. A seamless flow of elements in the room allows the energy to flow just as seamlessly. Balance should always be more important than symmetry.

The journey to creating a space that positively affects your mood, mind and behavior, regardless of circumstance or season, may not always be straightforward. Most of the time, you'll have to go through a few rounds of trial and error; or encounter frustrating situations where you might feel stuck. Do not worry. This is a step-by-step process that requires some thought and self-understanding to make the interior design work as a whole.