| | OCTOBER 20268A house is not just a physical dwelling place for meals, sleeping and other activities. A house is a personal space that can have an effect on one's feelings, thoughts, relaxation and social interaction. With increasing pressure in the modern world, there is an increase in the need to ensure houses are designed to provide emotional balance. Working long hours, reliance on technology, urbanisation, lack of contact with the natural environment, and increasing indoor activity make the residential environment very important nowadays. According to the World Health Organisation, housing can affect the mental health of individuals. Overcrowding, noises, lack of natural light, environmental pollution and lack of green areas can cause problems with mental health.The design of a house is not a substitute for professional treatment in the case of any mental condition, but the design of a house can make the environment feel safer, relaxing and calming. The elements of design like lighting, ventilation, colour, spatial arrangement, privacy, landscaping, acoustics, materials and even furniture arrangements can help to shape the feeling inside a house. Good design can decrease unnecessary stimuli, help develop good habits and give relaxing areas to live and express yourself.Natural Light for Better Well-BeingLight from the sun is one of the key factors that can be considered when designing your house. Not only does sunlight ensure that the interior of your house is well lit, but it also helps in maintaining the normal circadian rhythm in our bodies. The WHO reports that good levels of natural light are important for ensuring good mental health and mood regulation. There have been studies on dwellings that show how good daylighting designs contribute to overall happiness.How Home Design can Support Mental Well-Being| | OCTOBER 20268
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