Psychology of interior space : a study of the impact of minimalism on user psychology

Abstract

The functional requirement of a place will not solely depend on the spatial quality of its own. Such spaces itself complement the design input together with the perception of users and the human behavior within the space. Minimalism being popular design movement in the worldwide context but has not merely implemented in Sri Lankan interior context with reference to the gallery spaces. The overall purpose of the study is based on how the aspects of minimalism as a form of design is capable of influencing the mental perception of the user. The notion of minimalism and interior space is what is deconstructed in this specific study, focusing on art galleries as case studies which in turn will provide a better comprehension of how one should approach a design with minimalist aspects as a core foundation. The focus of this dissertation will also look at how one understands the fundamental reactions of the aspects of minimalism in varying contexts and as a result how a mental shift is made in the viewer’s perception of these spaces. The basic design of the study is to research three specific gallery spaces in Colombo and how the interior aspects of these spaces create an emotional state for the viewer. It will also encompass the aspects of minimalism, the geometry of spaces, the use of colour and light, textures and specifically the effect on the user and the user’s response towards these spaces. The Research area is focused on identifying the perception of users on minimalistic characters of the gallery space and the impact of minimalism on user behaviour which will succeed in the functional aspects of the place simultaneously. Thus, the main objective of the research study is to explore the traits of minimalist design in interior spaces that influence the mood of its users, and the relationship shared by these variables. The responsibility in implementing the design solutions sensitively in public accessible buildings to succeed the function as well as to cater the user sensitivity is examined considering the interior context. The necessity of clear design sensibility in terms of achieving the task and application of few minimalistic traits which plays a major impact to succeed the function and impose better impact for the users on their perception through the spatial experiences.