In line with psychologists’ findings, it has been evidenced that moods and feelings can be influenced by color alone. The color selection in laboratories will greatly contribute to the mood of not only scientists but also other staff. Workers’ motivation is a great factor affecting the success of any task, and motivation and mood depend on the physical environment in which the lab personnel work.
Not only color but even lighting can enhance the aesthetic look of the Laboratory. The only motive to enhance the aesthetics of the Lab is to make the environment more productive, pleasant, and efficient for working.
Why is the right color combination important in lab design?
Color undoubtedly has a great impact on the Lab’s researchers. But did we ever ask ourselves, ‘Why does color leave an impact?’
Let us know the answer to this ‘WHY?’
1. Biological Reason
Colors impact our moods and behavior by exciting the brain’s neurotransmitters and hormones, hence influencing our moods and behaviors. For example, sunlight exposure consisting of 7 colors will increase serotonin levels, leading to better moods and enhanced productivity.
2. Emotional Connection
Colors can stimulate a physiological and emotional response due to their connection to natural elements, cultural significance, or psychological experiences. For instance:
- Blue: The color blue resonates with emotions of calmness and peace. It can help reduce stress and promote focus, making it suitable for concentration-seeking environments, such as laboratories, offices, and study areas.
- Red: Motivation and alertness are key factors that make tasks successful. Red color can stimulate energy and increase heart rate, which ultimately evokes alertness and motivation. However, excessive usage of it can lead to aggression and agitation.
- Green: This color has an essence of growth, balance, and harmony. Therefore, it is beneficial in working areas where creativity and innovation are required, such as design studios or research labs.
- Neutral Colors: White, light grays and other neutral colors are common choices in lab interiors. These colors promote cleanliness and sterility and make it easier to detect contaminants, which is essential in maintaining hygienic conditions in labs.
3. Psychological Impact on Researchers
An aesthetically pleasant working environment can keep the researchers working and engaged for a longer time. Not only this, it also creates a positive impact on their well-being. According to psychologists, it helps the researchers in the following:
- Stress Reduction: Well-designed lab environments can reduce stress levels among researchers, leading to higher job satisfaction and improved performance. Calming colors and ergonomic design contribute to a more comfortable and supportive workspace.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Certain color schemes and layout designs can encourage cooperation and teamwork among researchers. Open and inviting spaces with flexible seating arrangements promote spontaneous interactions and idea exchange.
Crafting the Perfect Lab Aesthetic: Key Factors to Consider
Let’s dive into the most important factors that one must consider before creating an aesthetic working space:
1. Financial Boundaries
It’s important to examine the budget and the available resources in the working area. To make the Lab more aesthetic, opting for perfect color and lighting options can be costly.
For instance, if the expenses of the colors cross the financial limitations, one can opt for neutral color palettes such as white, beige, and shades of gray. These colors not only promote professionalism but also cleanliness and sterility.
2. Objective and usefulness
One needs to be very careful while designing the interiors of the Lab, as the decided aesthetic patterns for the Lab must align with the objective of the working environment.
Along with this, always keep an eye on the aesthetic elements. They should not interfere with safety protocols, such as unobstructed emergency exits and clear pathways.
3. Lighting
Designing the interiors of the Lab so that it does not need many artificial lights can be a cost-effective method. Workers will also enjoy natural light, as it elevates their mood.
Adjustable lighting fixtures can enhance functionality and comfort for lab personnel. Ambient lighting can create a welcoming atmosphere without compromising the visibility of work areas or safety considerations.
4. Ergonomics and Comfort
One can choose agile and efficient furniture that promotes comfort during long working hours. Also, appropriate, sound-absorbing materials and layout designs should be used to control the issue of noise.
Using appropriate color patterns of modular casework, vertical storage carousels, and other ergonomic storage solutions can enhance the Lab’s aesthetic look.
5. Brand Identity and Image
While selecting the wide range of design elements, remember to reflect the Laboratory’s brand identity and values. Use appropriate color schemes, thematic elements, etc., that align with the Lab’s logo, motto, etc., which would ultimately represent the Laboratory’s identity.
Conclusion
Lab interior color and aesthetics have an effect that goes beyond mere appearance, as they contribute to the safety of researchers, productivity, and the general well-being of researchers. To enhance innovation, collaboration, and scientific standards, laboratory designers should comprehend color psychology basics, remember pragmatic factors, and observe the laws. As this area develops, understanding and developing careers in this subject will change.
