The impact of design and non-design elements on the restorative potential of home environments

Abstract

The restorative potential of indoor settings, particularly in the residential context, has not been extensively investigated in the existing literature, despite research on restorative environments indicating that natural environments have beneficial effects in regulating stress and encouraging pleasant experiences. The present research sought to comprehend the restorative potential of home environments based on the theoretical basis of restorative environments and architectural elements affecting well-being. The study was carried out in two stages. First, the interviews were conducted with 11 adult women, employing the photo-elicitation method to thoroughly reveal the elements that have a role in determining the restoration process in home interiors regarding women’s experiences. Second, through visual stimuli, the effects of selected elements that emerged from the first stage were assessed with 72 respondents regarding their relationships between perceived restorativeness, complexity, and familiarity to validate their role in restoration. A thematic analysis of the data gathered in the first stage suggested that places’ architectural characteristics may be essential in facilitating the restoration process. It was discovered that in addition to architectural features, interacting with family and intimates and performing favorite activities and interests can contribute torestoration. Moreover, the exploratory character of the study identified the value of individual characteristics and personal meanings in determining the restorative potential of the home. The statistical tests were also conducted to explore the relationships between design-related elements regarding perceived restorativeness, complexity, and familiarity. The analyses showed a moderate positive association between perceived restorativeness, complexity, and familiarity. While the spaces with a visual connection to the nearby environment were identified as more restorative, those including natural components were associated with higher complexity. Moreover, the presence of visual access or natural elements contributed to improving the perception of familiarity with the settings. The implications of this study were discussed to propose an approach to creating restorative experiences within architecture and interior design practices.