Architecture for the Mind: Designing Spaces that Promote Mental Health and Well-being

In a fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety levels are rising, mental health has become a focal point of global conversation. The spaces we inhabit, live, and work in play a crucial role in shaping our mental and emotional well-being. As we approach World Mental Health Day on the 10th of October, it's important to reflect on how architecture – and the architects behind it – can positively impact our mental health.

The Intersection of Architecture and Mental Health

Architecture is more than just creating functional spaces; it’s about crafting environments that influence human behavior, emotions, and overall well-being. Research has shown that the physical environment has a profound impact on our mental state, making it vital for architects to design spaces that foster mental health.

At SKETS Design, we are deeply aware of how the built environment contributes to emotional and psychological well-being. By considering elements such as natural light, open spaces, and communal areas, we aim to create designs that promote a sense of peace and belonging.

How Design Influences Well-being

1. Natural Light and Connection to Nature
Natural light has long been associated with improved mood and cognitive function. Sunlight stimulates serotonin production, a hormone that helps maintain mood balance. Buildings designed with large windows and open spaces, allowing ample sunlight, contribute to positive mental health. Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements such as plants and water features, has also been shown to reduce stress and enhance creativity.

In South Africa, with its abundant sunshine and natural beauty, embracing biophilic elements is not just possible, but essential. Think of the integration of indoor gardens, rooftop green spaces, or even shaded courtyards – elements that reconnect inhabitants with nature.

2. Spatial Design and Flow
The way spaces are organized affects how people feel and interact. Environments that are cramped or poorly laid out can contribute to feelings of stress and discomfort. On the other hand, open-plan designs with flexible spaces can promote feelings of freedom, reducing anxiety.

In residential designs, creating a sense of flow between different areas – particularly communal and private spaces – is key to fostering mental well-being. Cape Vernacular designs, a design style at the heart of the hisotry and culture of the Western Cape, balance tradition and modernity by blending open spaces with private, serene corners where individuals can retreat and recharge.

3. Color and Materials
Colors and textures influence emotions in subtle but powerful ways. Cool tones like blues and greens evoke calmness, while warmer tones like yellows and oranges stimulate energy. The materials used, whether natural wood, stone, or concrete, also have an effect on mood and comfort levels.

Incorporating a careful blend of these elements into the design can help create spaces that are both visually appealing and mentally soothing. Architects have the ability to mold environments that not only look good but feel good, contributing to a person’s long-term mental well-being.

Case Study: 1 Discovery Place – Designing for Well-being in the Workplace

A prime example of how architecture can promote mental health and well-being is 1 Discovery Place in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. As the global headquarters for Discovery, this futuristic building embodies the principles of health-centered design while fostering collaboration, productivity, and innovation.

Before moving to 1 Discovery Place, Discovery’s operations in Johannesburg were spread across five separate buildings. This physical separation created barriers to communication and collaboration, impacting the company’s ability to foster a cohesive culture. The design of the new headquarters tackled this challenge head-on by creating a dynamic, interconnected environment where employees could thrive both personally and professionally.

At the core of the design are two expansive, light-filled atriums surrounded by open floors, all connected by a central concourse. This layout not only maximizes natural light, which has been shown to boost mood and reduce stress, but also encourages physical movement. Employees are prompted to walk through shared spaces, such as coffee stations and meeting areas, promoting interaction and collaboration across the organization. These features align with the goal of promoting mental wellness through human connection and an engaging work environment.

Discovery’s holistic approach to health is further reflected in the building’s amenities. A fully equipped gym, running track, yoga decks, and multipurpose courts on the landscaped rooftop encourage employees to maintain an active lifestyle. Physical exercise has long been linked to improved mental health, making these features an essential part of the building's design. By prioritizing movement, Discovery aims to create an environment where both the mind and body are nurtured.

The design of 1 Discovery Place also promotes inclusivity and flexibility. The open-plan layout eliminates the traditional “corner office” hierarchy, giving employees at all levels access to natural light and views through the building's glass exterior. Agile working arrangements, including flexitime and remote work, are supported by the adaptable workspaces throughout the building. This flexibility reduces workplace stress and allows employees to create a work-life balance that best suits their individual needs.

Moreover, 1 Discovery Place serves not only its employees but also the public. The first two floors are open to external visitors, with coffee shops, restaurants, and retail spaces creating a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. This integration of public and private spaces enhances the building’s overall sense of openness and connection, encouraging employees to feel part of a larger community rather than isolated in a corporate bubble.

In many ways, the design of 1 Discovery Place exemplifies how architecture can be a force for positive mental health. By prioritizing natural light, physical movement, flexible working arrangements, and human connection, the building creates an environment where employees can thrive—both mentally and physically.

1 Discovery Place designed by South African architects, Boogertman and Partners is the largest single-tenanted Commercial building in the Southern hemisphere.

Architecture’s Role in Post-Pandemic Mental Health

The COVID-19 pandemic has redefined how we view our spaces. Being confined indoors for extended periods has highlighted the importance of environments that support mental health. Architects must now factor in designs that promote both physical and mental wellness in the face of new realities, such as remote working.

By creating multifunctional spaces that blend work, relaxation, and recreation, architects can ensure that homes and offices become sanctuaries for the mind, body, and soul.

What Architects Can Do to Promote Mental Health

Incorporate Quiet Zones: Spaces for meditation or relaxation help individuals escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Prioritize Community Spaces: Designing communal areas encourages social interaction and combats loneliness, especially in urban environments.

Design for Flexibility: Multifunctional spaces allow for adaptability, essential for reducing stress in an ever-changing world.

Sustainability and Green Design: Green building practices not only benefit the environment but also provide a healthier living space, reducing exposure to harmful toxins and improving indoor air quality.

Building for the Mind: Crafting Spaces that Foster Mental Health

Architects have the unique ability to shape not only the world around us but also the minds and spirits of those who live within their creations. By focusing on elements that promote mental well-being, architects can contribute to a healthier, more balanced society.

As we commemorate World Mental Health Day, let’s continue the conversation on how architecture can be a force for positive mental health outcomes. At SKETS Design, we are passionate about creating spaces that inspire well-being, foster connection, and bring peace to the lives of those who inhabit them.

We’d love to hear from you! How do you think architecture influences your mental health? Share your thoughts in the comments below or engage with us on our social platforms. Let’s build not just for the future, but for a healthier, happier tomorrow.