Mental health

Promoting good mental health in libraries through innovative interior design

In today's fast-paced world, mental health has emerged as a crucial concern across all sectors of society. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in every 8 people in the world live with a mental challenge. Untreated mental health issues can result in unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, suicide and poor quality of life.

It is estimated that we spend up to 90% of our time indoors, highlighting the critical need for supportive environments like libraries to play a proactive role in mental wellness. Numerous elements of built environments have potential to contribute to sensory overload, including very loud or quiet sounds, visual “noise” caused by e.g., lighting or colours or unwanted sensory feedback (smell, touch or taste).

We recognise the profound impact of interior design on mental health outcomes and are committed to crafting library spaces that foster well-being through strategic layout, ergonomic furniture and thoughtful design elements.

Contents:

• How can libraries support good mental health?
• Initiatives for better mental health
• How we support good mental health
• Quiet zones
• Design for relaxation
• Rooms within the room
• Community activities
• Guidance and resources
• Healthy workplace
• Dementia-friendly design
• Contact

How can libraries support good mental health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. 
It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle
stress, relate to others and make healthy choices. Mental health is important
at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Source: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders

Beyond their role as repositories of information, libraries serve as essential public spaces where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can access resources, engage in cultural activities and seek refuge from the stresses of daily life. However, the evolving role of libraries extends beyond mere accessibility to information; they are increasingly recognized as vital community hubs that can actively contribute to mental health promotion.

We specialise in designing library interiors that prioritise good mental health and user experience. We believe in designing "rooms within the room" that offer private spaces for reflection and concentration, as well as communal areas that foster social connection and cultural exchange. These diverse spaces cater to the varied needs of library library visitors, ensuring that everyone can find a place where they feel comfortable and supported. Thus, we empower libraries to fulfil their potential as centres for good mental health promotion.

Initiatives for better mental health

Focus on mental health services and support is more important than ever.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the COVID-19 pandemic
has increased the global prevalence of anxiety and depression by a massive 25%.

Source: https://www.who.int/news/item/02-03-2022-covid-19-pandemic-triggers
-25-increase-in-prevalence-of-anxiety-and-depression-worldwide

To support global mental health improvement, libraries can effectively...

• create inviting library environments with comfortable seating, safe/private spaces, study areas, etc.
• introduce elements from nature such as plants, natural light and other nature-inspired effects to create a calming atmosphere.
• provide mental health resources with a great selection of books, audiobooks, online courses and digital resources focusing on mental health.
• host helpful workshops and seminars and offer regular mindfulness, meditation and yoga sessions.
• ensure that library staff receive training on mental health awareness and how to support library visitors in need.
• consider specific visitor groups in designs, e.g., individuals with dementia or vulnerable youth.

How we support good mental health

 We aim to design libraries that support better mental health by...

• reducing the potential for sensory overload or distress by introducing sensory-relaxing elements.
• providing flexibility in our designs and ergonomic furniture solutions.
• supporting natural inspired environments by incorporating nature-inspired elements and furniture.
• offering places for recovery, respite and privacy when needed by introducing distinct areas with e.g., reading caves, room-in-room furniture and quiet zones.
• offering places for social meetings, group work and workshop when needed by providing furniture that supports activities, presentations and social gatherings.

Quiet zones

Quiet zones are meticulously designed within libraries to cater to the diverse needs of individuals seeking moments of solitude or deep concentration. These spaces are strategically located away from high-traffic areas and noise sources, ensuring minimal distractions that could disrupt concentration. Whether visitors are engaged in reflective reading, intensive study sessions or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, these designated areas offer a haven where they can unwind and recharge mentally.

The design of quiet zones within libraries is carefully curated to enhance their effectiveness in promoting mental health. Elements such as comfortable seating, soft lighting, and soothing decor contribute to creating a calming atmosphere that encourages relaxation and stress relief. For visitors seeking activity and social interaction, the library naturally also offers these zones.

> Quiet zones

Design for relaxation

Aesthetics play a significant role in creating environments conducive to mental health. Our designs incorporate soothing elements such as natural lighting, soft seating, calming colour schemes and strategically placed greenery. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal of libraries but also contribute to a tranquil atmosphere that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. By harmonising aesthetics with functionality through ergonomic furniture and thoughtful spatial planning, our designs create inviting spaces where library visitors can unwind and recharge.

Soft seating plays a crucial role in enhancing design for relaxation in libraries. By combining comfort, ergonomic support and aesthetic appeal, our selection of soft seating contributes to creating an environment where visitors can feel welcomed, comfortable and inspired during their library visits.

> Design for relaxation 

Rooms within the room

The concept of "rooms within the room" has emerged as a pivotal strategy in enhancing both functionality and mental well-being. These micro-environments within libraries are meticulously designed to offer privacy and focus, crucial for reducing stress levels and enhancing concentration. In a busy and often noisy environment, having access to a secluded area can provide a sense of calm and relaxation.

By reducing distractions and external stimuli, these enclosed spaces help visitors maintain focus and enhance their productivity. This aspect is particularly beneficial for students preparing for exams, researchers delving into complex topics or individuals needing a moment of respite from the bustling library atmosphere.

> Rooms within the room 

Community activities

Engaging in communal activities in libraries is more than just social interaction; it fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens community bonds, crucial for mental well-being. From vibrant book clubs that stimulate intellectual discourse to interactive workshops that encourage creativity and skill development, these initiatives enrich the library experience.

By promoting social connectedness and life satisfaction, communal activities play a pivotal role in enhancing library visitors' mental health outcomes. They create spaces where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together, share experiences and build supportive relationships. This social interaction not only combats feelings of loneliness and isolation but also strengthens community resilience and cohesion.

> Community activities

Guidance and resources

Libraries serve as invaluable hubs of knowledge and support. Beyond offering a vast array of books and digital resources, they provide access to educational programs, expert guidance and community networks.

Our designs prioritise intuitive navigation and accessibility, ensuring that library visitors can easily locate resources and receive assistance tailored to their informational needs. By strategically organizing library layouts and employing user-friendly signage, our designs ensure that individuals can navigate the library environment with confidence and efficiency, minimizing stress associated with information retrieval.

> Guidance and resources

Healthy workplace

Ensuring a healthy workplace environment for library staff plays a significant role in promoting their mental health and overall well-being. Research consistently shows that a supportive work environment correlates with higher job satisfaction, lower stress levels and improved overall mental health among employees.

Central to our approach is the integration of ergonomic principles in workstation design. Ergonomic furniture such as adjustable desks, supportive chairs and ergonomic accessories are selected to mitigate physical strain and promote proper posture.

By investing in the physical and psychological well-being of library staff through thoughtful design and ergonomic considerations, we contribute to a workplace culture that prioritises staff well-being and ensures sustainable performance over time.

> Healthy workplace 

Dementia-friendly design

As an example of a specific visitor group, we have explored dementia-friendly design. Navigating public spaces can be daunting for individuals with dementia and our dementia-friendly designs are meticulously crafted to minimise confusion and promote independence. Clear signage, non-glare surfaces and intuitive spatial layouts ensure ease of navigation and enhance the overall experience for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Our dementia-friendly designs incorporate sensory considerations that contribute to a calming and supportive atmosphere. Lighting is carefully calibrated to provide adequate illumination without harsh glare, creating a comfortable ambiance that enhances visibility for library visitors with visual impairments often associated with dementia. Acoustic treatments may also be integrated to minimise background noise and create a quieter environment conducive to concentration and relaxation.

> Dementia-friendly design

Contact

We assist in designing libraries that promote better mental health. 

If you have a current or upcoming project you would like to speak with us about, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

> Contact us

Related subject

Discover more about our commitment to biophilic design within libraries to further enhance mental health outcomes.

> Biophilic library design