The Effects of Color in the Interior Architecture of Residential Spaces with an Emphasis on People's Happiness
Subject Areas :zahra alsadat etezadi 1 , Seyede Marzieh Tabaeian 2 , Sanaz Rahravi poodeh 3 , Aqhil emamqoli 4
1 - PhD student of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Institute of Society and Media, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. Tourism, Architecture and Urban Research Center, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
2 - Associate Professor (Corresponding Author), Department of Architecture, Institute of Society and Media, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. Tourism, Architecture and Urban Research Center, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
3 - Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Institute of Society and Media, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. Tourism, Architecture and Urban Research Center, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
4 - Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Institute of society and Media, Abhar, Islamic Azad University, Abhar, iran.
Keywords: Color, interior architecture, residential space, happiness, systematic review.,
Abstract :
Introduction: Mental health has become a primary focus in recent years, with increasing recognition of factors that contribute to psychological well-being. Happiness, as a significant component of mental health, is influenced by various environmental, social, cognitive, and psychological factors. One essential environmental element that impacts happiness is the design of residential spaces. Since people spend considerable time in their homes, the design of these spaces significantly influences their daily lives, behaviors, and even their circadian rhythms. Therefore, studying the elements within residential environments, specifically in relation to happiness, holds particular relevance. Among the many factors in interior design, color stands out as an impactful component that can directly influence happiness. Colors evoke different emotional and psychological responses, affecting moods and perceptions. For instance, warm colors like yellow and orange are often associated with joy and energy, while cooler colors like blue and green can evoke calm and relaxation. Despite the obvious influence of color on psychological well-being, there has been a lack of significant research specifically focusing on how colors in interior residential spaces affect happiness. This systematic review aims to fill that gap by examining existing studies on color's role in interior architecture, with a focus on how specific color schemes impact happiness. The objective of this review is twofold: first, to clarify how color in residential interiors influences people's happiness; and second, to analyze the methodologies of existing studies, highlighting gaps and offering guidance for future research. The research questions guiding this review are: (1) Does the physical element of color in interior spaces impact happiness levels among residents? (2) What color patterns can interior designers use to enhance the happiness of occupants?
Methodology: This study employs a systematic review methodology, gathering and analyzing data from numerous academic sources to understand existing research trends on color’s impact on happiness within residential spaces. Inclusion criteria for the review involved specific keywords, relevant measurement variables, assessment tools, and publication dates to ensure up-to-date and pertinent data were analyzed. The research was conducted using an array of databases, and studies were chosen based on relevance, quality, and methodology. Each selected study was then subjected to quality assessment to ensure credibility, and the findings were synthesized to highlight patterns, commonalities, and variations in results regarding the role of color in affecting happiness in residential settings.
Results: The systematic review revealed a clear, positive correlation between color and happiness. Studies indicated that specific colors in residential spaces could enhance happiness and, consequently, improve the overall mental health of residents. Warm and vibrant colors were often found to boost energy levels and mood, making them ideal for social and active spaces such as living rooms and kitchens. Conversely, cooler colors were preferred in private spaces like bedrooms, where relaxation and calmness are desired.
Conclusions: Based on the findings, the study concludes with ten specific color patterns recommended for interior designers to incorporate into residential designs to promote happiness. These patterns consider different emotional responses to colors, allowing designers to strategically apply them based on the purpose of each room and the desired psychological effect. The study highlights the importance of intentional color choices in residential interior architecture, not only as an aesthetic decision but as a factor contributing to mental health and happiness. The results offer practical guidelines for interior designers and pave the way for future research on the psychological impact of design elements in residential spaces.
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