Share your love!

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

Title: Evidence-based Design for Interior Designers | Bark&Chase Meta Description: Interior designers have to make a lot of decisions - but how do you know which ones are backed by evidence? This guide provides an introduction to the world of evidence-based design.
Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

Meet the Author and Your Future Designer: Julio Arco is a passionate architect with years of experience in architecture, interior design, urban design, and housing. He studied at prestigious universities across North America and Europe. 

 

If you’re looking to learn about Evidence-Based Design For Interior Designers, hire me or my colleagues to help you. Our collaboration will be a seamless online process, from idea boards to detailed layouts, renderings, and a curated shopping listClick here to learn more and work with me with 25% off! Learn more About Me, or visit my Portfolio

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

Evidence-Based Theory, EBD, and Environmental Design – Introduction Video

Like what you see? Check out my Portfolio & work with me or any Havenly designer, & spruce up your home with Havenly, the platform that has revolutionized online interior design since 2013! Offering online interior design services & home decor from the best online interior designers at an affordable price! Take 25% off your first design TODAY!

As an interior designer, you know that aesthetics are important, but what if you could also design spaces that improve the health and well-being of those who use them? This is where evidence-based design and environmental psychology come in.

Evidence-based design is a methodology that uses research and data to inform the design process. By gathering data, analyzing it, and using it to inform design decisions, interior designers can create spaces that are not only visually pleasing but also functional and effective. This approach has been particularly successful in healthcare and architecture. Still, it can be applied to any type of interior design project.

Environmental psychology theories explore the relationship between individuals and their surroundings, specifically how the built environment affects behavior and well-being. By understanding and applying these theories, interior designers can create spaces that look good and promote health and well-being. Studies have shown that certain design elements, such as natural light, color, and greenery, can positively impact mental and physical health.

Interior designers can create truly transformative spaces by combining evidence-based design and environmental psychology. From classrooms and office spaces to healthcare facilities, the possibilities are endless. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn about the latest studies, topics, and examples in the field and take your interior design skills to the next level.

Evidence-Based Design For Home Environments

1.- Unlock the Hidden Potential of Shapes in Interior Design

To unlock the hidden potential of shapes and forms, there is a whole body of research about evidence-based design and environmental psychology in interior design, where shapes take on a whole new level of significance. According to this research, there are many ways to use shapes and forms in interior design, and they play a crucial role yet often go unnoticed by viewers. 

UX design found that each shape provokes different emotions, thoughts, and perceptions and can greatly influence people’s behavior and emotions. By implementing an evidence-based design process rooted in the definition of using objective research and data to inform decision-making, we can understand how different shapes can be used to evoke specific emotions and communicate different messages in architecture and interior design.

By applying environmental psychology theories and studying the latest environmental psychology topics and studies, we can create spaces that look good and promote health and well-being. Continue reading as we uncover the hidden potential of shapes in interior design and how to use them to create more meaningful and impactful spaces through an evidence-based design approach.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

2.- Maximize Spaciousness with the Magic of Mirrors

Mirrors are a versatile and powerful tool in interior design with a wide range of uses and benefits, such as making a room look bigger. According to Psychology Today, mirrors can help us create the illusion of more space by reflecting light and making walls appear farther away. They can also be used to bounce natural light around a room, improving our mood and mental acuity. 

Research by The National Library of Medicine on mirror materials in interior and landscape design also emphasizes the ability of mirrors to expand space and create intriguing light effects. Additionally, mirrors have the ability to affect our well-being, both positively and negatively, as stated in the research on mirror materials in interior and landscape design by Psychology Today

For example, it has been found that people tend to consume fewer unhealthy items when they can view their images in a mirror. By using an evidence-based design approach in architecture and interior design, which is rooted in the definition of using objective research and data to inform decision-making, we can understand how mirrors can be used effectively in different spaces and environments. 

By applying environmental psychology theories and studying the latest environmental psychology topics and studies, we can create spaces that look good and promote health and well-being. While mirrors can be incredibly useful, it’s important to be selective about how many you use in a space to avoid creating a funhouse-like atmosphere. With strategic use of mirrors, we can improve not only the aesthetics and functionality of our spaces but also our own well-being.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

3.-Bringing Vibrant Life to Your Spaces with Color

You can bring vibrant life to your spaces with color theory, transform your spaces, and affect our moods and emotions in countless ways. According to research by Research Gate in the article titled “Effects of Color in Interior Design,” the colors we choose for our homes can uplift or depress us. Our perception of color is greatly influenced by our culture, experiences, and memories.

By using an evidence-based design approach in architecture and interior design, which is rooted in the definition of using objective research and data to inform decision-making, we can understand how color palettes can be used effectively in different spaces and environments, such as dining rooms, laundry roomsliving rooms, and how to combine colors with hardwood floors. By applying environmental psychology theories and studying the latest environmental psychology topics and studies, we can choose the best paint colors and create spaces that look good and promote health and well-being, boost creativity, promote sleep, and reduce depression and anxiety

Colors can also affect our time perception, with warm and vivid color schemes speeding up time and neutral and plain ones slowing it down. An article published by NCBI found that blue interiors were the most preferred, followed by green, violet, orange, yellow, and red. A preference bias was found for the specific color the student lived in, and gender differences emerged for the preference of blue and violet.

The interior color significantly affected the room’s lightness, and the room ceiling was preferred to white. Blue as an interior color was considered to facilitate studying activity. According to an article published by Sage Journals, warm colors tend to produce stronger participant responses when rating the scene on “high arousal,” “exciting,” and “stimulating.” Cool colors tend to be associated with “not very arousing” and are used in bedrooms to promote sleep

By understanding the psychological effects of color, we can also use it to help us choose furniture such as chairs, sofas, coffee tables, rugs, fabrics, and other furniture.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

4.- Creating a Sensory Experience with Textures

Introducing texture into interior design can greatly enhance the overall sensory experience of a space. According to the National Library of Medicine, research has shown that textured walls can create a perception of a less spacious room while also being affected by the material and size of the room. Additionally, as discussed by Hughes (2008), a perceptual psychologist, the differences in textures on walls or floors can create a haptic or visual landmark and define how it is felt by the way it looks, feels, and reflects light.

Not only can the feel of fabrics influence how we think about what we’re touching, but it can also stir up emotions due to the associations we have with different fabrics. Incorporating natural textures such as wood, stone, and tile can provide a connection to nature and promote lowered blood pressure, improved mental attentiveness, and overall happiness, as stated by Browning et al. (2014).

Synthetic textures such as carpets and fabrics can also create a comfortable and soothing environment. For example, research by Redfern (1995) found that thick, hard floors can be perceived as uncomfortable and fatigue-producing; thus, a soft carpet can be perceived as more comfortable and soothing.

Incorporating texture into a space can also be achieved by adding pet-friendly rugs, layering rugs, hanging curtains, choosing furniture, and perhaps even a daybed. These elements can provide a visual and tactile experience that can greatly enhance the overall atmosphere of a space.

It’s important to remember that the use of textures in interior design should be based on an evidence-based design process, taking into account environmental psychology theories, topics, and studies to create a space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also promotes well-being and comfort.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

5.- Furniture Placement: The Key to a Harmonious Space

Furniture placement is essential to creating a harmonious and functional interior space. According to PLOS One, in an article called “The Effects of Furnishings on Perceived Spatial Dimensions and Spaciousness of Interior Space,” it was found that furnishings can greatly impact our perception of a room’s dimensions and spaciousness. This highlights the importance of furniture placement in the overall design process.

Furniture placement is a crucial aspect of creating a harmonious and functional interior space, with numerous academic studies emphasizing its importance. When designing a space, it’s essential to consider how furniture arrangement impacts the room’s flow, functionality, and perceived dimensions.

Take, for example, the concept of “defensible space,” introduced by architect Oscar Newman in his 1972 book “Defensible Space: Crime Prevention Through Urban Design.” Newman’s theory posits that the arrangement of furniture and other elements in a space can create a sense of ownership and control, ultimately leading to increased feelings of safety and reduced crime rates. By strategically placing furniture to create clear boundaries and sight lines, designers can foster a sense of well-being and security for occupants.

Additionally, spaces with furniture arrangements that facilitated social interaction and flexibility promoted positive emotions and increased satisfaction. Conversely, environments with rigid or isolating furniture layouts often led to negative emotional responses.

Proximity and personal space are also critical factors to consider when arranging furniture. Hall’s (1966) seminal work, “The Hidden Dimension,” explores the concept of personal space and its influence on interpersonal interactions. By taking into account the cultural and social norms related to personal space, designers can create furniture layouts that facilitate comfortable and effective communication within a space.

In summary, furniture placement is key to creating a harmonious and functional space. By understanding how furniture placement can affect our perception of a room, we can use evidence-based design and environmental psychology theories to create spaces that meet the users’ needs and improve overall well-being.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

6.- Adding Interest and Movement to Interiors with Patterns

There is potential for evidence-based design approaches to be applied to the interior design sector, just as there is in other disciplines. Patterns can be utilized to create rhythm, emphasis, and harmony in a space by using design elements such as color, mirrors, sculptures, statement furniture, artwork, and architectural features, creating a striking visual effect.

Rhythm is another essential principle that creates a systematic movement throughout a space while keeping one interested through the use of patterns. Repetition is a means of generating visual interest and rhythm, with patterns playing a crucial role. A sense of movement and coherence can be established through consistent pattern repetition.

Unity and harmony are also crucial design principles that unify all components into a harmonious whole. Unity is achieved through repetition and similarity of patterns, whereas harmony entails the sensation that everything fits together. By employing these principles, every aspect of a room, from the positioning of furniture to the color scheme, coalesces to create a calming sense of togetherness.

Additionally, a study by Sage Journals titled “Wall patterns influence the perception of interior space.”, found that the texture of an object’s surface influences its perceived spatial extent and that the density of patterns is more important than the orientation of patterns in determining a room’s perceived spatial extent. 

Moreover, a study published by Science Direct, titled “Psychological responses to natural patterns in architecture,” found that low-level visual features predict naturalness ratings of architectural scenes and that buildings with higher degrees of Scaling and Contrast are perceived as more natural. Therefore, incorporating patterns in interior design effectively generates rhythm, emphasis, and harmony within a space. It is only one of the many design components that can bring an interior design vision to life.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

7.- Bringing Nature Indoors: The Power of Houseplants

The concept of “evidence-based design” and “biophilic design” in interior design is becoming increasingly important as studies continue showing the positive impact of bringing nature indoors, such as natural materials or houseplants, on physical and mental health. According to the National Library of Medicine, research suggests that having pet-friendly houseplants indoors and pet-friendly indoor trees can lower blood pressure, improve academic performance, and reduce the effects of Sick Building Syndrome.

In an article by Research Gate, it was demonstrated that the number of published papers investigating the effects of indoor plants on psychological perceptions has substantially increased since 1999. This study provides practical references for interior designers, architects, and the general public. The study recommends simple exposure to a couple of flower or foliage pots, either a small or moderate size, at distances of within three meters to the occupants in a room for about 20 minutes to increase positive psychological perceptions.

Additionally, according to an article called “Stress-reducing effects of indoor plants,” confirmed by The American Society for Horticultural ScienceUTM, and Belmont University, it was concluded that indoor plants have the potential to reduce stress and sick leave and increase productivity. This study provides further evidence of the positive effects of houseplants in indoor environments, not only on air quality and physical health but also on mental health and well-being.

Furthermore, this study sheds light on the underlying mechanism causing this stress reduction. The stress-reducing effects of nature interventions in the built environment are the result of a higher level of perceived attractiveness of such environments. The use of indoor plants in the evidence-based design process is an important consideration for architects and designers when creating healthy and sustainable built environments.

When arranging plants in your home, it’s important to consider factors such as the perfect spot for your houseplant, determining sunlight levels for houseplants, humidity for houseplants, and plant care tips. It’s also important to avoid common mistakes when caring for your plants, such as over-watering or placing them in an area with poor lighting. Additionally, it’s important to consider potential plant toxicity and to research the best options for pet-friendly indoor trees.

When purchasing houseplants, it’s important to consider where to buy affordable options and stay up-to-date on current houseplant trends. Proper care also includes getting rid of any houseplant pests and using the right tools like a moisture meter and humidifiers. Some experts also recommend talking to your houseplants and using natural or grow lights.

Hanging plants and hanging gardens are also popular options for adding greenery to indoor spaces. It’s also important to consider how to fertilize your houseplants for optimal growth and health. Overall, incorporating indoor plants into your home or office can greatly improve the overall aesthetic and air quality and provide numerous health benefits.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

8.- Illuminating the Beauty of Your Space with Lighting and Natural Light

The concept of “evidence-based design” in interior design is becoming increasingly important as studies continue showing the positive impact of natural elements, such as lighting, shadows, and natural light, on physical and mental health. According to Science Direct, a study found that natural lighting conditions in housing significantly impact people’s perceptions of happiness and sadness, with settings that have an increased amount of daylight entering the home leading to the greatest impacts.

In an article by the National Library of Medicine, it was demonstrated that current lighting technologies extend the options for changing the appearance of rooms and closed spaces, creating ambiances with an affective meaning that can improve the well-being of the occupants. The study found that ambiance with a clearly recognizable, positive affective meaning could be used to effectively mitigate negative mood.

Another article, “Effect of lights on visual perception and mood,” concluded that color and light are two ambient attributes for interior spaces that can be used in designing and modifying workspaces. The study found that the combination of the white artificial light color and warm light or the blue color with cool light has a more favorable effect on visual perception and people’s moods in workplaces.

Incorporating lighting and natural light into the evidence-based design process is an important consideration for architects and designers when creating healthy and sustainable built environments. Environmental psychology theories and studies have long been exploring the relationship between our built environment and our mental and physical well-being, and lighting and natural light are key factors in this relationship.

Using natural light and appropriate lighting design in buildings can greatly improve the overall aesthetic and air quality and provide numerous health benefits.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

9.- Creating a Clutter-Free Haven with Organization and Decluttering

According to the National Library of Medicine, having a hoarding disorder can cause problems with work performance, personal hygiene, health, and well-being. This issue is a growing social problem, and it can become a public health problem if it affects one’s neighbors. Hoarding disorder is an individual problem and a problem for society, and a practical solution is warranted from a public health point of view. 

In addition, according to an article called “Home and the extended-self: Exploring associations between clutter and well-being,” it was found that home self-extension variables, particularly subjective clutter and psychological home, account for the substantial variance of well-being. The study concludes that home self-extension, and clutter in particular, are significant predictors of well-being. In general populations, clutter considerations are neither mundane nor trivial but central and important to well-being. 

The study offers a refined clutter definition, encompassing people’s subjective experience and interpretation of clutter. Creating a clutter-free home can have numerous benefits for your overall well-being. It can improve productivity, reduce stress, and enhance the overall aesthetic of your living space. 

The evidence-based design process for interior design should take into consideration the effects of clutter on the inhabitants of the space and incorporate strategies for organization and decluttering. Environmental psychology theories and studies also support the idea that the physical environment can greatly impact one’s emotional and psychological well-being. 

According to Utah University, “Clutter isn’t just the stuff on the floor. It’s anything that gets between you and the life you want to be living” – Peter Walsh. A study by Princeton University discovered that our environment can positively or negatively impact our ability to complete tasks as well as our overall mental health. 

Additionally, an article by Psychology Today found that by removing or controlling clutter, we can directly reduce the stress that stems from the mess, which can help us to feel happier, less anxious, and more confident in ourselves.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

10.- Transforming Your Home and Interior Decoration with Art

Transforming your home and interior decoration with art is a great way to add a personal touch to your living space and improve your overall well-being. According to the International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, recent studies have highlighted the importance of incorporating art into the interior design to create spaces that meet users’ needs.

The journal notes that there is a contrast between the answers of interior design specialists and psychology and artistic therapy specialists when it comes to designing spaces for preventive well-being. However, the journal states that there is now a base to start future research. Evidence-based design architecture, definitions, examples, and processes can provide guidelines on how to create residential spaces that promote well-being. 

Additionally, according to an article by Sage Journals, anger and stress management are important issues in residential spaces. One out of four American homeowners reports themselves to be chronically angry, which has been linked to negative outcomes such as retaliatory behavior, revenge, interpersonal aggression, poor work performance, absenteeism, and increased turnover. The study hypothesized that people who live in residential spaces decorated with aesthetically engaging art posters would experience less stress and anger in response to task-related frustration.

Additionally, according to Health Design, art basically makes people feel better. Art has been known to have a positive impact on health environments. It allows for positive distraction, improves the perception of a well-being environment, serves as an element that users identify with, a de-stressor, and a way-finding landmark for people.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

11.- Achieving Symmetry and Balance for a Calming Space

Interior design based on evidence is also known as “evidence-based design.” An example of this approach is the use of symmetry and proportion in interior design, as research has shown that it promotes well-being and balance. Studies in the field of environmental psychology, such as “The Impacts of Symmetry in Architecture and Urbanism” and “Visual and emotional analysis of symmetry,” published in the Journal of Vision, have found that symmetry is perceived as aesthetically pleasing and has a positive effect on the emotions of those who view it.

Additionally, Gestalt psychology emphasizes the idea that the whole of anything is greater than its parts, and symmetry can be seen as a key element of this. This evidence-based design process involves researching environmental psychology theories and topics and conducting studies to gather data and inform design decisions. This process includes analyzing data on how people use and interact with spaces and evaluating the impact of design elements on human behavior and well-being.

According to the Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture, symmetry can create a sense of order and organization that can positively affect the emotions of those who view it.

In conclusion, the evidence-based design approach in interior design utilizes findings from scientific research to create spaces that positively impact human behavior and well-being.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

12.- Getting the Scale and Proportion Just Right in Interior Design

The principles of beauty in architecture and interior design have long been a subject of study and research. The relationship between geometry, nature, and architecture is essential to understand, according to the book “Principles and Applications of Geometric Proportions in Architectural Design.” Human beings have been closely observing nature since their existence and have found that nature has geometric proportions in all her creations, such as humans, animals, and plants.

This has been discussed that geometry has played an important role in architectural design for ages. Throughout history, architects have been interested in human body proportions and tried to link these proportions to building design in various ways.

Moreover, according to MasterClass, in the world of design, scale and proportion both have to do with the size of objects in a given context. Scale is an understanding of how the size of one object in a space relates to the size of the other objects in the space and the size of the space itself. Scale also describes the size of an object in relation to the human figure; for example, furniture is designed to human scale.

Proportion is an understanding of the scale of specific design elements on a single object, including size, shape, texture, and color. Proportion is concerned with the relationship between parts of a whole.

This understanding of beauty and proportion can be further enhanced by utilizing evidence-based design architecture. Evidence-based design is a process that uses research and data to inform design decisions. This approach can be applied to various examples, such as healthcare facilities, schools, and office spaces.

Additionally, the application of environmental psychology theories, topics, and studies can also play a role in the evidence-based design process. These theories focus on the relationship between people and their surroundings and how the design of the built environment can affect behavior, well-being, and overall performance.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

13.- Enhancing the Ambiance of your Home with Scent and Aromatherapy

According to the research published in “Effects of Fragrance on Emotions” by Research Gate, scents can directly impact our emotions and moods. The article concludes that “favorable customer responses tend to represent the primary mood characteristics of enjoyment, excitement, relaxation, and sensuality that underpin a broad range of product features.”

Furthermore, “The Nobel Prize Assembly” in their article “odorant receptors and the organization of the olfactory system,” states that while the sense of smell was once considered the most mysterious sense, researchers have now discovered a gene family of 1,000 genes that produce an equal number of olfactory receptor types, which are responsible for recognizing and recalling up to 10,000 different scents.

Additionally, an article published by the National Library of Medicine, “Nature, smells, and human well-being,” highlights the importance of nature in how smells influence human well-being, with the study suggesting that nature’s health benefits include how the brain processes smell. Moreover, the study opens new avenues of research with far-reaching implications and demonstrates that earlier experiences, ecological settings, and seasons determine how nature affects human health.

Finally, “Using Ambient Scent to Enhance Well-Being in the Multisensory Built Environment,” published by Frontiers, found that ambient scent may harm well-being; however, regulated pleasant smells may increase social, emotional, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Flowers, herbs, spices, and other plant scents may help us relax, sleep better, and be more productive.

In addition, when it comes to scents in the home, many people use essential oils to scent a room; however, it’s important to note that, while essential oils have lots of benefits, certain essential oils may not be safe for dogs. In the field of architecture, “evidence-based design architecture” uses research and data to inform the design of buildings and spaces.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

14.- Touching the Heart of Interior Design: The Importance of Haptics

Interior design has the power to shape users’ interactions with their environment in immersive and long-lasting ways. However, haptic elements—the sense of touch—are often neglected despite their importance in creating meaningful and memorable experiences. In an age where digital simulations are commonplace, tactile perception provides us a better understanding of our environment that transcends mediated realities.

As recognized by An Architecture of Humility: The Need for Haptic Spaces in an Age of Simulation, architects have started to incorporate tactile elements into their designs to create emotional connections with users. They are utilizing evidence-based design architecture to craft structures featuring natural light, ventilation, and rain – allowing for more knowledge than what could be obtained from a simulation alone.

Designers have participated in workshops that evaluate frameworks of haptic design parameters so as to make designs more accessible for those who cannot access visuals due to sight impairment or other factors. Moreover, CAD technologies allow them to add these parameters without compromising visual appeal.

Nowadays, architects are faced with the challenge of representing these concepts visually for designers, which is addressed in Challenging Architects to Include Haptics in Design: Sensory Paradox between Content and Representation. 

Despite the benefits of non-visual sensory aspects found through environmental psychology theories, topics, and studies, they are not given enough attention leading to them being not accessible enough for everyone – causing a “sensory paradox between content and representation.”

Thus it becomes paramount to find ways around this visual bias existing within architectural research and theory in order to reach a deeper understanding of life cycles through incorporating thoughtful touches within built environments using evidence-based design processes and examples.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

15.- Creating Pet-Friendly Spaces with Evidence-Based Design Principles

Creating pet-friendly spaces can be a daunting task for any pet owner. The psychological effects of interior design decisions must be taken into consideration when designing your pet’s home. Not only do they need to feel safe and comfortable, but they are also part of the family! That is why evidence-based design for pet-friendly interiors is needed to create welcoming and inviting environments for humans and animals.

According to Gregory Berns, a neuroscientist at Emory University, Atlanta, USA, dogs have a level of sentience comparable to that of a human child. Brain scans conducted on dogs prove how similar the social brains of dogs and humans may be – something that should certainly not be overlooked when designing an environment for our furry friends.

Studies show that pets have positive impacts on our mental health by increasing self-esteem and happiness levels in humans who own them. What better way to repay them than by creating relaxing and safe environments specifically tailored to their needs while promoting health and welfare?

Furniture choice for pet-friendly interiors is one area where people tend not to think about their pet’s needs; however, many options are available for both people and animals. Additionally, following the best 20 tips and tricks to protect furniture from your pets will help keep your home looking neat and clean while making sure that the fur babies in your life remain comfortable too!

Interior designers must always remember that their designs have powerful psychological effects on those within the environment – pets included! A well-designed interior based on evidence-based design research can help achieve a cohesive atmosphere within any home or space with minimal effort. With this knowledge in hand, you can create beautiful interiors with all members of the family in mind – even Fido!

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

Final Thoughts

Incorporating research and empirical evidence into the design of healthcare facilities is the bedrock of evidence-based design (EBD). This design methodology is a prevalent philosophy used in hospitals, clinics, and patient rooms that aims to optimize patient outcomes and staff well-being. The idea has extended to the realm of residential and commercial architecture, making it a multi-dimensional concept.

One of the prominent champions of evidence-based design is HMC Architects, which has developed a privacy policy based on EBD principles. They have recognized the crucial role of patient privacy in healthcare facility design and have dedicated significant resources to research and study the subject.

A plethora of benefits are associated with the implementation of evidence-based design. A well-designed healthcare environment has been proven to alleviate stress, improve sleep quality, and expedite the healing process for patients. Similarly, a well-designed workplace promotes job satisfaction, reduces occupational hazards risk, and enhances healthcare practitioners’ productivity. These benefits are applicable to both residential and commercial settings.

There is substantial evidence indicating that evidence-based design enhances patient outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that patients in well-designed patient rooms have shorter hospital stays, require less pain medication, and have fewer complications.

In addition to the improvement of patient outcomes, evidence-based design has the potential to lower operational costs. By increasing staff productivity, reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections, and eliminating the need for expensive upgrades, healthcare facilities can cut expenses while providing optimal healthcare.

Despite the numerous benefits of EBD, many healthcare institutions continue to cling to outdated design methods. To combat this issue, there is an increasing number of designers, academics, and healthcare professionals advocating for the integration of evidence-based design in healthcare facilities.

One of the challenges of evidence-based design is the requirement for continual research. The complex relationships between the built environment and human health necessitate an ongoing process of design study. By continually enhancing the evidence foundation for healthcare design, practitioners can create more effective and efficient healthcare facilities.

In conclusion, evidence-based design is an indispensable aspect of healthcare design. The integration of research and empirical information into the design process enables the development of healthcare facilities that optimize patient outcomes, employee well-being, and financial performance. As healthcare design continues to evolve, evidence-based design will become more critical in meeting the changing demands of patients and practitioners.

Evidence-Based Design for Interior Designers – FAQ

How does evidence-based design (EBD) contribute to the design of patient rooms, healthcare facilities, and other healthcare settings?

Evidence-based design (EBD) is a design process that considers research to improve patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction. It enables practitioners to gain insights into how particular aspects of the design can influence outcomes such as privacy, infection control, noise levels, and staff efficiency.

By utilizing EBD principles when designing patient rooms, healthcare facilities, and other healthcare settings, practitioners are able to create environments that promote positive experiences for both patients and staff alike.

What evidence from research and design can help practitioners make informed decisions about patient outcomes in healthcare design?

Practitioners should look to evidence from research and design studies when making decisions about patient outcomes in healthcare design.

Studies can provide insight into how particular aspects of the environment or layout may affect everything from infection control to noise levels.

Research results combined with eye-catching designs can assist practitioners in making informed decisions about how their facilities are laid out.

Can designing a space based on evidenced principles improve privacy policies and benefit patients?

Designing a space based on evidenced principles can improve privacy policies that ultimately benefit patients.

The right layout with thoughtful placement of beds can increase staff visibility while maintaining patient privacy.

Additionally, incorporating natural elements such as light or plants into the space has been shown to have beneficial effects on well-being, increasing patient satisfaction.

How can healthcare practitioners incorporate available resources, such as journal articles and projects, into their team’s control over facility design decisions?

Healthcare practitioners should look for resources that provide data-driven information about healthcare facility designs, such as journal articles or case studies from successful projects.

They should also attempt to identify best practices through specialized organizations or industry peers who have implemented similar projects in order to ensure they make informed decisions about their own facility designs.

What are the potential impacts on patient satisfaction with their care if evidence-based design principles are incorporated into healthcare environments?

Suppose evidence-based design principles are incorporated into healthcare environments. In that case, it could improve patients’ overall experience, including increased safety and comfort, due to better lighting fixtures or furniture placement options.

Additionally, it could improve staff performance due to increased productivity associated with more efficient spaces that reduce wasted resources or time spent looking for things within the building itself.

Evidence-based Design (EBD) for Interior Design and Evidence-Based Environmental Psychology Theories

Hire an Online Interior Designer at Havenly

There are several online interior design websites, but Havenly is your best option to hire from a robust list of interior designers that will help you in decorating and creating the perfect dog-friendly home. 

When you sign up for Havenly, you will take a short quiz about your design style and what you are looking for in a designer. Havenly will then match you with a designer who will help you select paint colors, furniture, and accessories that are both stylish and safe for your furry friend.

In addition, your Havenly designer will be able to provide tips on how to create a space that is both comfortable for your dog and inviting for guests. With Havenly, creating a beautiful and functional home that your dog will love is easy and stress-free.

Click here if you want to learn more about Havenly or book an interior designer and get 25% off your design package if you click here!

Share your love!
M.Arch. Julio Arco
M.Arch. Julio Arco

Bachelor of Architecture - ITESM University
Master of Architecture - McGill University
Architecture in Urban Context Certificate - LDM University
Interior Designer - Havenly
Architecture Professor - ITESM University

Articles: 584