COLOR IN A BIOPHILIC INTERIOR: PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL IMPACT AND ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

SA.
2025;
: 133-140
Authors:
1
Assistant at the Department of Architectural Design and Engineering, Lviv Polytechnic National University

The article considers the role of color as one of the most important tools of the biophilic approach in the design of living space. Color is analyzed not as a decorative element, but as a full-fledged factor of psychophysiological comfort and harmonious climate of premises. Based on the generalization of scientific research in environmental psychology, neurodesign and architectural theory, it is shown that natural colors reduce stress, support concentration, improve mood and can give a sense of security. Special attention is paid to the concept of "color scenarios" in living space, which takes into account the functional purpose of premises, daily human biorhythm and cultural codes. The article emphasizes the importance of the interaction of color with materials and lighting, because it is this synergy that creates a full-fledged biophilic experience. An important contribution is the proposal of a methodology for evaluating color as a criterion of biophilia, which involves a multilevel approach: psychophysiological (measurement of emotional and physiological reactions), functional (compliance with the spatial scenario), cultural and symbolic (connection with local tradition). Criteria and indicators are proposed that can be used in design practice and integrated into international standards of sustainable construction. The article also highlights the possibilities of applying modern research methods – from neuropsychological (EEG, fMRI, eye tracking) to computer modeling in VR environments, which provide an objective assessment of the impact of color solutions on a person. Thus, it is proven that color in a biophilic interior is a multidimensional phenomenon that combines archetypes of nature, physiological mechanisms of influence and cultural meanings. Its systematic study and implementation in design practice can be an important contribution to the creation of a healthy, individualized and ecological living environment.

Beute, F., & de Kort, Y. A. W. (2018). The natural color environment and restorative outcomes: A systematic review. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 57, 134–145.

BREEAM International New Construction. (2016). Building Research Establishment (BRE).

Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2014). Color psychology: Effects of perceiving color on psychological functioning in humans. Annual Review of Psychology, 65, 95–120. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-010213-115035

Fan, X., & Sun, Q. (2023). The role of color saturation and brightness in emotional responses to interior spaces: An eye-tracking study. Building and Environment, 232, 110032.

Gage, S. H. (2021). The neuroaesthetics of color in architecture. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 667–674.

Gillis, K., & Gatersleben, B. (2015). A review of psychological literature on the health and well-being benefits of biophilic design. Buildings, 5(3), 948–963. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings5030948

Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective. Cambridge University Press.

Kellert, S. R. (1993). The Biophilia Hypothesis. Island Press.

Kellert, S. R. (2018). Nature by Design: The Practice of Biophilic Design. Yale University Press. https://doi.org/10.12987/9780300235432

Küller, R., Ballal, S., Laike, T., Mikellides, B., & Tonello, G. (2006). The impact of light and colour on psychological mood: a cross-cultural study of indoor work environments. Ergonomics, 49(14), 1496–1507. https://doi.org/10.1080/00140130600858142

LEED v4.1 Building Design and Construction. (2019). U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

Shemesh, A., Talmon, R., & Keren, N. (2022). The restorative potential of biophilic colors: Evidence from VR environments. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 80, 101753.

Terrapin Bright Green. (2014). 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design: Improving Health and Well-Being in the Built Environment.

Ulrich, R. S. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420–421. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.6143402

WELL Building Standard v2. (2020). International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). Retrieved from https://standard.wellcertified.com

Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press. https://doi.org/10.4159/9780674045231

Yildirim, K., Akalin-Baskaya, A., & Hidayetoglu, M. L. (2007). Effects of indoor color on mood and cognitive performance. Building and Environment, 42(9), 3233–3240. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2006.07.037

Zhang, Y., & Lin, H. (2020). Circadian lighting and its effects on human performance and wellbeing in residential interiors. Lighting Research & Technology, 52(4), 401–417