2023 - Full Presentation Schedule
The Effects of the Built Environment on Individuals’ Well-Being, Within Higher Education Settings
Abstract
Abstract
The designed environment we live, work, socialize and interact impacts us in many ways. As individuals, we are sensitive to our surroundings and elements within our space, affecting performance. Some aspects can make us feel nervous, uncomfortable, and stressed, while other components create a sensation of relaxation, increase confidence, advance concentration, and improve mood (Boubekri et al., 2020; Ulrich, 1984; Vandiver, 2011; Woolner et al., 2007).
Several peer-reviewed articles support that design characteristics such as lighting, colors, Biophilic elements, and floor plan layout affect individuals emotionally and cognitively (Gillis & Gatersleben, 2015; Houldena et al.,2019; Leiringer & Cardellino, 2011; Pati et al., 2016).
Throughout history, little attention towards evidence-based design has been performed to interiors due to Institutional Isomorphisms; traditional buildings are designed and structured to maximize square footage and basic functionality for the lowest cost. As a result, several buildings look similar in interior and exterior designs, such as schools, hospitals, and prisons (Escobar, 2020).
During the recent decade, professionals, educators, and individuals have become better aware of the relationship between the built environment, mental well-being, and cognitive function. The phenomenon is especially evident after facing a global pandemic in 2020. As a result, stress levels increased, physical and mental health became more of a priority, and the perception of physical space changed (Steelcase, 2020).
Therefore, the research examines how different design components within our built environment affect well-being within academic facilities. The items related to well-being consider both mental and cognitive welfare; concertation, work productivity, mood, and the overall mental state. Understanding the aspects of a well-designed environment and its effect on well-being will verify the relationship one to another and assist academic institutions in constructing supporting design environments for students, faculty, and staff.
Keywords: Well-being, evidence-based design, designed environment, built environment cognitive function, Isomorphisms, biophilia, interior design.
The Effects of the Built Environment on Individuals’ Well-Being, Within Higher Education Settings
CASB 105 - Psychology
Abstract
The designed environment we live, work, socialize and interact impacts us in many ways. As individuals, we are sensitive to our surroundings and elements within our space, affecting performance. Some aspects can make us feel nervous, uncomfortable, and stressed, while other components create a sensation of relaxation, increase confidence, advance concentration, and improve mood (Boubekri et al., 2020; Ulrich, 1984; Vandiver, 2011; Woolner et al., 2007).
Several peer-reviewed articles support that design characteristics such as lighting, colors, Biophilic elements, and floor plan layout affect individuals emotionally and cognitively (Gillis & Gatersleben, 2015; Houldena et al.,2019; Leiringer & Cardellino, 2011; Pati et al., 2016).
Throughout history, little attention towards evidence-based design has been performed to interiors due to Institutional Isomorphisms; traditional buildings are designed and structured to maximize square footage and basic functionality for the lowest cost. As a result, several buildings look similar in interior and exterior designs, such as schools, hospitals, and prisons (Escobar, 2020).
During the recent decade, professionals, educators, and individuals have become better aware of the relationship between the built environment, mental well-being, and cognitive function. The phenomenon is especially evident after facing a global pandemic in 2020. As a result, stress levels increased, physical and mental health became more of a priority, and the perception of physical space changed (Steelcase, 2020).
Therefore, the research examines how different design components within our built environment affect well-being within academic facilities. The items related to well-being consider both mental and cognitive welfare; concertation, work productivity, mood, and the overall mental state. Understanding the aspects of a well-designed environment and its effect on well-being will verify the relationship one to another and assist academic institutions in constructing supporting design environments for students, faculty, and staff.
Keywords: Well-being, evidence-based design, designed environment, built environment cognitive function, Isomorphisms, biophilia, interior design.