Driving Well-Being: Evidence-Based Design and Environmental Psychology in the Workplace

As we spend most of our time in working environments, the importance of the relationship between psychology and Evidence Based Design is becoming increasingly apparent.

The spaces around us influence not only our productivity but also our mental and emotional
well-being.

The alliance between Psychology and Evidence-Based Design provides some valuable tips for
design and planning:
1. The power of natural light: environmental psychology teaches us how light profoundly influences our emotional state and performance, and recommends we use natural and artificial light sources in harmony with circadian rhythms.

2. Structure and spatiality: the layout of spaces can influence social interaction and concentration. Evidence-Based Design directs us towards creating environments divided into zones, which allow a balance to be achieved between periods of
collaboration and periods of privacy.

3. Colours and sensations: the choice of colours and tones has a direct emotional impact on people. This perspective can be used to select colours that promote well-being and motivation.

4. Comfort and physical well-being: physical well-being is essential to mental health. Evidence-Based
Design promotes the use of ergonomic furniture, dynamic and flexible structures and comfortable spaces.

5. Participation of users: a fundamental aspect, linked with the subject of inclusiveness, is
the active participation of users in the design process.

6.Universal Design and accessibility: the inclusive approach of Evidence-Based Design embraces the concept of Universal Design, aiming to create accessible environments for everyone, regardless of their physical capabilities.

The synergistic integration of psychology and Evidence-Based Design offers us the key to creating work environments that not only meet the specific functional needs of each environment but are also able to actively support the psycho-physical well-being of all workers.