The current pandemic has brought various levels of concern to many. For those who are working from home that initial feeling of independence can easily give way to feelings of isolation and lack of support and camaraderie from work colleagues. As we now head into the darker winter months it is important to consider how our living and workspaces can be best exploited to promote positive mental well-being. Whether you live in the country, suburbia or in the city there is an opportunity for us all to rethink our homes to make them more flexible and adaptable for living, home schooling, creative thinking, zoom meetings…. so that we feel safe both physically and mentally.
Natural daylight and ventilation
Exposure to natural daylight and fresh air enhances mental health as well as physical health. Poor air quality and lack of daylight can also reduce productivity levels and have a negative impact on sleep patterns. Ensuring that your workspace has a well-considered natural daylighting and ventilation strategy will not only help boost mood and energy levels but is also eco-friendly as electricity and heating usage are minimised.
Solar gain
Consider the potential for natural heat gain from the sun- east facing rooms will benefit from sunlight and heat gain in the mornings and west facing rooms in the evenings. Make the most of these solar gains by examining your typical working hours. South facing workspaces benefit from sunlight throughout the day creating warmth in the room – try to position desks and computer screens to reduce glare.
Noise
Smaller, quieter, flexible workspaces may be more appropriate than open plan layouts to help improve concentration and well-being with fewer background distractions.
Views
Take advantage of the views out of your home – a window which frames the landscape, a church spire or a public space can enhance the interior quality of your home environment; likewise a deep window seat can act as an ideal work surface for a child.
Colour
Your colour scheme can have a positive impact on mood and mental well-being. Selecting muted colours such as pale blue or green tones can have a calming effect, think of ways to get more greenery and plants into your home; shades of red are often associated with an increase in anxiety and stress and can also make a room feel much smaller than it is.
If you would like to discuss your project, more information can be found at www.rsua.org.uk or www.traceyarchitects.com
