Many studies have shown how visual elements within architecture, such as motifs in pictures, can affect people's psychological and physiological state. This is especially true in health-related environments, such as hospitals and clinics, where stress-reducing design can play a central role in the patients' healing process. We have compiled a small guide below. motive and purpose.
Stress reduction
Images with natural motifs, such as forests, gardens, parks or streams, have been associated with stress reduction. Scenes of nature can help patients, visitors and staff feel more relaxed and less stressed.
Forests and trees: Images of deep, green forests or tranquil tree-lined paths can evoke the feeling of being in nature, which can lower blood pressure and stress levels.
Streams and waterfalls: Themes with water, especially clear flowing water or majestic waterfalls, have a naturally relaxing effect. The sound of water has a calming effect, so images that evoke this sensation can be particularly effective.
Gardening and flower fields: Pictures showing colorful flowers or beautiful gardens can reduce anxiety and induce a sense of peace.
Beaches and coastal landscapes : Soft sandy beaches, clear seas and wide horizons can contribute to mental relaxation and help people breathe more deeply. This kind of motif conveys a sense of infinity and tranquility.
Mountains and valleys: Motifs of mountains, rolling valleys or views of landscapes can be uplifting and contribute to a feeling of being one with nature.
Sunrise and sunset: Images that capture the beauty of sunrises or sunsets can inspire positivity and at the same time remind one of the course of nature, which can have a calming effect.
Wildlife in the wild: Images of animals living peacefully in their natural environments can be remarkably stress-reducing while inducing a sense of connection and wonder.
Astronomical scenes: motifs of the night sky, the stars, the moon or even entire galaxies, can give a sense of calm. Astronomy puts the individual stress level into perspective when compared to the entire universe.
By implementing elements of the above motifs in environments where stress levels can be high, you can create a more relaxing and inviting space. It is important to choose images with high resolution and good quality, as this improves the expression and thus the stress-reducing effect.
Improving mood
Positive images with vibrant colors or motifs that evoke joy can improve the mood of those in the room. It can be particularly beneficial in areas where people wait or feel anxious, such as in waiting rooms.
Nature and landscape images: Sunrises, beaches, flower meadows, mountain landscapes or idyllic gardens can give a feeling of calm and well-being. Studies have shown that nature images can have a calming effect and improve mood.
Animal pictures: Happy or peaceful animals, especially pets like dogs and cats, or wild animals showing their most charming side, make people smile and contribute to positive emotions.
Children and families: Happy families and playful children can be encouraging and provide a sense of joy and belonging.
Humorous images: Art or photographs with a humorous twist can lift the mood and contribute to a more relaxed atmosphere. For example, drawings, cartoons or strange situations captured with a camera.
Art with vibrant colors and patterns: Abstract art that uses bright, positive colors or inspiring patterns can stimulate the senses and create a sense of energy and optimism.
Inspirational quotes or messages: Images that include encouraging quotes or positive messages can motivate and inspire the viewer. These can be beautifully incorporated into the design and support a positive outlook on life.
Cultural and celebratory motifs: Festivities and culture add a sense of community and celebration to a space.
When choosing motifs to enhance the mood in waiting rooms or similar environments, it is important to consider diversity and inclusivity in the chosen motifs to ensure that they both appeal to and respect a wide audience. It is also important to consider the general atmosphere of the room and choose art that compliments the room's design and color choices, thereby creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
Disconnection and distraction
In treatment rooms, the images can act as a distraction, helping patients focus on something soothing or stimulating rather than their treatment or any pain.
Fantasy and fairytale landscapes: Images of magical forests, fantasy worlds and surreal landscapes can capture the imagination and offer an escape from reality.
Deep sea and space themes: motifs of outer space, planets, star constellations or deep sea scenes can be both fascinating and calming to observe.
Intricate patterns and mandalas: detailed geometric patterns such as mandalas and artistic abstractions can catch the eye and keep the brain occupied for a long time, thereby acting as mental stimulation. These patterns can simultaneously be used in mindfulness exercises.
Art that contains puzzle or discovery elements: Images with hidden objects or details to search for can be super interesting and offer a welcome distraction.
Outstanding Architecture and Cityscapes: Images of beautiful buildings or famous architecture can fascinate and allow patients to mentally travel to other places.
Close-ups of nature and macro photography: detailed images of flowers, insects or textures in nature can offer an in-depth visual experience that absorbs attention.
Feel free to choose motifs that appeal to a wide patient group and create an atmosphere of calm and curiosity. These images can play a valuable role in the patient's overall experience and contribute to a more comfortable treatment situation.
Encouraging positive thinking
Motifs that reflect healing, hope and happiness can promote a positive mental state and support a healing attitude.
Nature motifs: Landscapes, sea views, forests, flower fields and other natural scenes often have a calming effect and can evoke a feeling of freedom and spaciousness, which can be especially nice in confined hospital environments.
Water elements: Images of water, rivers, waterfalls, lakes and oceans can have a particularly calming and healing effect. Water is often associated with purity, renewal and the continuity of life.
Skies and sunrises/sets: Designs that show the sky in changing colors at sunrise or sunset can evoke a sense of hope and the sense of the beginning of a new day or a peaceful end.
Abstract and artistic interpretations of healing and growth: Art that uses colors, shapes and textures to create a sense of movement, growth and transformation can inspire positive thoughts.
Images of smiling people or human interactions: Photographs or paintings that show people in positive interactions or children playing can evoke feelings of community, happiness and love.
Animal and pet motifs: Animal motifs can be comforting and bring joy, especially to animal lovers.
The Seasons: Art that conveys the beauty of changing seasons can remind us of the cycle of life and the constant opportunities for renewal and beginnings.
These motifs not only offer an aesthetic value, but also serve a greater purpose in promoting healing and psychological well-being. By choosing motifs that resonate positively with patients and healthcare professionals, a sense of hope and positivity can be strengthened in a healing environment.
Evidence-based design research
Evidence-based design research has shown that art that evokes positive emotions and offers visual connections to nature can have therapeutic benefits. A study published in the journal "Health Environments Research & Design Journal" found that images of nature can lower blood pressure, reduce stress and promote healing in patients. Choosing wall art within architectural healing is not only an aesthetic decision, but also part of a strategic approach to creating environments that actively contribute to health and well-being. Designers, architects and healthcare professionals often work together to select art and images that will have the most beneficial effect on the users of a space
Design considerations
Relevance and Context: It is important that the subjects in the images are carefully selected to fit the context of the space in question and its users.
Cultural sensitivity: The motifs must be culturally appropriate and inclusive to ensure they are reassuring to a broad spectrum of individuals.
The identity of the building: The motifs can also help create an identity in the building or space and can be used to reinforce the architectural themes of the building.