Insights from our Sr. Creative Director, Jami Brames
Realized or not, the places we inhabit significantly impact our well-being and emotions. And even though we may not be aware of this effect, we know it when we enter a space that makes us feel good. But where do these positive vibes come from? Our sense of safety and well-being plays an important role, allowing us to relax, go with the flow, feel good, and flourish.
When designing to provide a sense of well-being, here are some considerations:
1. Bring in nature
We depend on nature, so our desire to be in touch is innate. Try and look for ways to bring the outside indoors. Large windows stream in sunlight, greenery incorporates plant life, and using natural materials increases our connectivity to nature. Plants have calming, live giving effects like purifying the air we breathe and improving our mood and memory. Natural elements and materials like wood or woolen textiles connect you back to the earth and support a more mindful state of being. Create moments to take a mindful pause to gaze at a large painting or through a window to observe the scenery outside.
2. Meaningful aesthetics
Aesthetics impact our emotional well-being. Beauty comes from a play between balance, scale, and texture. These visual cues signal our brain and naturally make connections igniting our imagination. Small personal touches that contain a memory of home or a photo of a recent trip with a friend can expand time and make for a moment of gratitude. These keepsakes can spark a conversation adding a meaningful connection to your day.
3. The power of color
Color has the power to influence our emotions and cue behaviors. Soft cool colors like green and blue can provide calming effects leaving you rested and relaxed. Warm colors like yellows and oranges can encourage positive thinking and optimism. Bold colors like purple are known to stimulate curiosity and promote confidence.
Through design, we can seek ways to intentionally create and incorporate elements that spark joy, amplify a good mood, and enhance well-being. Positive experiences can provide comfort and ease to be your best daily, impacting overall well-being.
With over 18 years of professional experience as a designer, Jami Brames has a passion for capturing, curating and creating. As the Creative Director at OFS, she works alongside a team of designers to bring branded experience to life. She achieved a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communications from Purdue University and currently resides in Jasper, Indiana with her husband, Jarod Brames, and three beautiful children.