Psychology plays a huge role in design. There is research on just about every imaginable human reaction to environmental stimuli that you can think of.
Design elements will be applied differently in an ocean setting than a wooded area, as well as for showers and baths. An ocean area is usually more open and you can see what is around you. You may feel more comfortable in an open ocean bathing area as opposed to a forested one. A wooded area is more crowded with trees and structures: there can be hidden dangers (real or imagined).
Human behavior is thought to be associated with survival instincts from our ancestors. Therefore, a flight or fight instinct may be evoked when we are sitting and feeling vulnerable. This becomes magnified when you are naked and in a confided vessel like a bathtub. When sitting in a bath, in an open setting, that is not enclosed at all, or have the illusion of being enclosed... we may have an uneasy feeling like we should flee. As a designer, there are many things that we can do to fool the eye or give the impression of a certain feeling or emotion: including security and comfort.
Outdoor showers are not the same. You are standing at attention and if it were necessary, you could flee at will. There is less vulnerability, therefore people feel more comfortable and relaxed taking a shower in the outdoors. Less thoughts and restrictions are necessary. There are always some things that we can do to make the experience more enjoyable. But, it's not as essential.
The thoughts and feelings that I explained are unconscious. It's that feeling you get when you either feel super comfortable in a space or you want to get the heck out of there and have no idea why. When you know the rules and psychology behind them, it's possible to make all of your spaces feel warm, inviting and relaxing.
The following are a few examples of what I have explained:
GOOD
The above picture is pretty good. Great to take a shower in. The bath area would be most comfortable if there was either something above like an awning or lattice type cover OR if the roof is left open, it would be best to have four walls or the feeling of being enclosed. The feeling of safety gives comfort.
BETTER
The above picture is pretty good. Great to take a shower in. The bath area would be most comfortable if there was either something above like an awning or lattice type cover OR if the roof is left open, it would be best to have four walls or the feeling of being enclosed. The feeling of safety gives comfort.
BETTER
The roof enclosure makes this a more appealing setting. The trees on the left are dense and far away enough that they feel like a wall and less like something can be hidden behind them. The bath on the right has a solid wall and everything else is far away and open to the environment. The user can see in all directions which makes it comfortable.
BEST
The last picture is the best of all worlds. Think of those forts that you used to create as a child in the living room or under the dining table. It's all based on the same psychological concept. It's an open setting. There is a roof to keep you covered. Soft Material draped over and to the sides, adding texture and layers. Open windows create the illusion of an enclosure: protects you from the environment while letting you feel like you are sitting outside. It is protected, but open. Anyone would feel comfortable and cozy in this bathtub. The ultimate outdoor experience.
*All of the discuss theories can be applied to interior spaces as well. Just think of your open environments and how you will be using your space.
*You may consider these factors as well when booking your favorite spa and spending premium dollars on your dream vacation. You want to have the ultimate experience and the design of the spa just might make or break the trip. How you feel about a space affects your dreams and memories.
Designing a life with grace and ease
No comments:
Post a Comment