In 2024, we face a crisis that cuts deeper than economic challenges or urban planning alone: a collective decline in mental resilience. Burnout and depression have become daily realities, especially among young people. Architects, the people who design our living and working spaces, face a new question: how can they contribute to the mental well-being of their users? Or indeed: to the mental well-being of society as a whole? Has the profession of architecture evolved into more than just design, demanding psychological and sociological insights?
The corona pandemic has left deep marks. The lockdowns, physical isolation and abrupt shifting of social interactions to screens have had their effect on our mental health. Although the pandemic itself is over, we can still see the impact on the younger generation: burnouts are more common, as are feelings of anxiety and insecurity. And it doesn't stop there; social media amplifies the problem by painting an unrealistic picture of life, while concerns about climate change add additional pressure. For architects, meanwhile, this means that their role goes beyond designing buildings that are aesthetically pleasing and functional. They must also consider the mental health of the users of their designs.
The influence of a well-designed space on mood is not new. Studies have repeatedly shown that light, space and the presence of greenery can reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. But how do architects translate this knowledge into practical designs?
- Light and air:
Buildings with plenty of natural light and good ventilation increase well-being and energy levels. Consider tall windows, open spaces and skylights.
- Green zones:
Whether it's vertical gardens, indoor gardens or green roofs, incorporating nature into designs helps reduce users' stress levels.
- Flexibility and multifunctionality:
Spaces that are adaptable to different activities and needs give users a sense of control and comfort.
- Soothing acoustics:
By designing with acoustic materials, environments can be created that invite relaxation and focus.
Thus, the modern architect is not only a designer of physical spaces, but also a designer of human experiences. One question that arises here is whether the architect feels a responsibility to contribute to addressing today's mental health crisis? Increasingly, the answer seems to be "yes. More and more architects are realizing that their work has a profound impact on people's daily lives. But as an architect, how do you prepare for this?
When designing a new project, questions such as "What kind of feeling do I want people to experience here?" and "How can this space contribute to the well-being of the user?" should be as important as technical questions about materials and construction. More than ever!
There are already projects bridging the gap between design and mental health. A good example are modern school buildings where spacious, open classrooms and covered playgrounds have been created to reduce student stress. In offices, we are seeing an increase in "biophilic design," where natural elements and open spaces improve atmosphere and productivity.
Thus, architects have since gained a unique position to contribute to the well-being of society. By integrating elements of psychology and sociology into their designs, they can create not only aesthetically pleasing, but also supportive and soothing spaces. The profession of architecture is changing, and with that understanding comes a shared responsibility to build together a future in which the built environment can be a source of strength and peace. No, it must be!