What makes good design

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• Safety & Security

Ensure physical and psychological safety through design—safe materials, lighting, and spaces promoting security and comfort.

• Views & Connection to Nature

Providing occupants with views of natural elements—such as trees, gardens, water, or sky—strengthens our innate connection to the natural world. These views reduce stress, enhance mood, and improve cognitive function. A well-designed space maximises sight-lines to greenery or natural landscapes, fostering a sense of calm, belonging, and restoration.

• Thermal Comfort & Air Quality

Maintain comfortable temperatures and ensure good air quality for relaxation and productivity.

• Natural Light Circadian & Artificial Lighting

Maximising natural light is essential for boosting mood, energy, and mental clarity. Good daylight exposure helps regulate our circadian rhythms — the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle — which influences sleep quality, alertness, and overall health. Where natural light is limited, thoughtfully designed artificial lighting can mimic these effects by adjusting intensity and color temperature throughout the day to support wellbeing and productivity.

• Space and Environment

Create aesthetically balanced spaces that stimulate, promote interaction, and foster wellbeing.

• Psychological Safety & Emotional Wellbeing

Create environments that reduce anxiety, support mental health, and foster emotional safety.

• Promote Communication

​Spaces should facilitate interaction and a sense of community, whether through shared areas or layout design that promotes collaboration and conversation.

• Encouraging Social Connection

Facilitate interaction and community through shared areas and collaborative layouts.

• Cultural Sensitivity & Diversity

Respect and accommodate diverse cultural practices and needs beyond local identity.

• Incorporating Fun & Play

​Adding playful elements to a design—whether through interactive features, whimsical art, or engaging layouts—can spark joy, boost creativity, and reduce stress.

• Functional Layout & Movement

Promote easy movement, flow, and adaptability for physical comfort and mental clarity.

• Promotion of Physical Activity

Encourage movement and exercise through design elements like accessible stairs, walking paths, or active spaces.

• Allowing for Flexibility and Change

Spaces that can adapt to changing needs provide a sense of control and comfort, whether it’s a multipurpose room or furniture that can be rearranged.

• Accessibility & Inclusivity

​A well-designed space is accessible to all, accommodating a variety of needs to ensure everyone feels included and supported.

• Personalisation & Identity

​Allowing for personal expression through customisation of spaces fosters emotional comfort and a deeper connection to the environment.

• Connection to Place

​Design that reflects the local culture, history, or natural surroundings fosters pride and identity, creating a meaningful connection between people and their environment.​

• Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility

Sustainable design choices not only benefit the planet but also create a sense of purpose and pride for those who use the space.

• Digital Comfort and Functionality​

Design should support healthy interactions with technology by minimising screen glare, providing spaces for focused work and relaxation, and balancing connectivity with calm. Thoughtful placement of devices, lighting, and furniture helps reduce digital fatigue and maintain comfort, allowing occupants to use technology without it overwhelming their wellbeing.

• Sensory Experience (Sound, Texture & Materials)​

​Good design takes acoustics, texture, and materials into account. Natural materials and soft textures can create a more soothing environment, while thoughtful sound design reduces stress.

• Mindfulness & Quiet Spaces

​​​Include spaces for reflection and emotional resilience through mindfulness or quiet time.

• Color Psychology

Thoughtful use of colours can influence emotional states. Calming tones like blues and greens reduce stress, while bright colors like yellows and oranges boost energy and creativity.​

• Organised Spaces "Clutter-Free"

​Design clean, organised, minimalist environments to enhance focus and reduce anxiety.

• Restorative & Healing Environments

​​​Design spaces that promote recovery, healing, and restoration, such as in healthcare or wellness settings.