Jessica Shaw is Director of Interior Design at The Turett Collaborative in New York City.

By Jessica Shaw

In recent years, we have witnessed a tremendous shift in the way we view mental health and wellness as a society. However, an area that is often left out of this discussion are the physical spaces in which we inhabit.

The places in which we live our lives are strong factors in how we feel. One-third of our time is spent at work and 90% of our time is spent indoors. So, whether you work in a traditional office setting or from home, the design of these spaces is definitely something to consider.

Research within the field of neuro-architecture has repeatedly proven the connection between design elements (like art, color, and spatial relationships) and our mood, productivity levels, and overall health. As an avid yogi and advocate for daily mindfulness, I am a firm believer that our emotions and moods play a role in everything we do. Thankfully, controlled, easy-to-implement design elements are out there, and have very real effects.

For example, incorporating certain colors, such as yellow or reds, within a workspace can help deliver a subconscious boost of creativity and energize productivity levels. As a rule of thumb, I always recommend opting for natural lighting whenever possible. Additionally, displaying art in an office is another great way to stimulate our neural pathways, enhancing our problem-solving and creative thinking skills. In work settings where innovation and new ideas are the primary output, having art around is incredibly beneficial.

Ultimately, it does not take much more than a new coat of paint, open blinds, and softer lights to create a more comfortable work environment. By tuning into the powers of neuro-architecture, we can transform our workspaces into a place where we not only work but feel well - bringing a greater level of excitement and fulfillment to our daily lives.

““The places in which we live our lives are strong factors in how we feel. One-third of our time is spent at work and 90% of our time is spent indoors. So, whether you work in a traditional office setting or from home, the design of these spaces is definitely something to consider.” —Jessica Shaw #PowerToChangeStories” ”

Jeassica Shaw is director of Interior Design at The Turettt Collaborative in jNew York City. Innovative & Luxury New York City Architects | The Turett Collaborative (turettarch.com)