Embracing Trauma-Informed design principles
Photo created with AI assisted design
Trauma informed design principles, help us to create projects that are more supportive and inclusive, that promote well-being and resilience in those who interact with them. Although this blog is not even close to a comprehensive explanation of what Trauma informed design principles actually are - my hope is that it causes us to pause and consider ways the spaces we design can help to facilitate healing. It is inspired by my studies in college combined with inspiration from the book “The Body Keeps the Score” by Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk.
Trauma-informed design emphasizes the need to consider the emotional and psychological impacts of a space on the individuals that inhabit it. By prioritizing safety, soothing colors, natural light, biophilia, clear way finding and clear views of exits, to name a few, we can foster environments that are not only functional but also nurturing and restorative.
You can incorporate elements such as natural materials, daylight, inspired artwork and organization to enhance comfort and reduce stress. Additionally, flexible spaces that allow for personal control and choice can empower individuals, helping them feel more at ease and self autonomous.
Trauma-informed design principles also emphasize the importance of privacy and personal space, which can be crucial for those who have experienced trauma. Providing quiet areas or nooks where individuals can retreat for solitude and reflection can be particularly healing. Additionally you can provide areas for social interaction such as break rooms where people can come together and build community.
A holistic approach can be applied to various settings, from educational institutions and healthcare facilities to workplaces and public spaces, fostering a sense of belonging and hope for all who encounter them. This means that the design of a space is not just a function to make money, but it values and supports the different layers of a human being. Including one’s mental, emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing.
This design philosophy invites us to consider ways that support grounding individuals in their bodies and providing ways to soothe the nervous system. Allowing them to feel more open, connected to others and at ease. By intentionally incorporating elements that engage the senses, such as calming scents, gentle textures, clear way finding and directions, layouts that include pockets of open space so it’s not cramped, and harmonious sounds, the environments we create can encourage relaxation and mindfulness. In particular, an attentiveness to providing soothing sensory experiences can be especially helpful in aiding individuals to feel at ease.
Furthermore, integrating technology thoughtfully into these spaces can enhance accessibility and personalization, enabling people to tailor their environment to their unique needs and preferences. For instance, adjustable lighting systems cater to different times of day and activities, while interactive displays provide information in a way that is engaging and easy to digest.
When we embrace these innovative approaches, we pave the way for spaces that are not only responsive to the needs of individuals but also adaptable to the ever-changing dynamics of modern life. In light of the swift advancements in modern technology and its pervasive influence on our lives, it is just as crucial to incorporate elements that are grounding, fostering a connection to the serene vitality of nature. Biophilic design is especially good for reaching this goal. You can include plants and natural materials like wood and stone. Natural light is of course also highly encouraged, yet consider ways to control for glare.
By adopting a trauma-informed perspective, designers and planners can create spaces that serve their intended functions while also uplifting the human being and fostering our shared wellbeing.
Imagine a community center where the layout intuitively guides people through its spaces with clear way-finding, offering areas of social engagement and quiet reflection. Picture a library that uses soft lighting and comfortable seating with stylized nooks to create a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can immerse themselves in learning and wonder. Consider public parks designed with meandering paths, lush greenery, and modern sculptures encouraging a leisurely pace that invites visitors to connect with nature and each other.
This approach is not merely about aesthetics; it is about creating environments that resonate with empathy and understanding. It is about recognizing the stories that each person carries and designing spaces that offer comfort and support for a calm neurosystem. It also uplifts individuals and encourages them to feel at ease being themselves.
Grocery and retail stores can incorporate the Japanese concept of negative space into previously dense layouts, recognizing the impact of clutter on mental wellbeing and foster a more spacious atmosphere. Another idea is to reach out to local Indigenous communities for guidance about how to provide a formal land acknowledgment.
As we continue to evolve in our understanding of trauma and its effects, embracing a trauma-informed mindset in design will become increasingly important. By prioritizing the emotional, physical, spiritual and psychological needs of individuals, we can create spaces that not only serve their intended purposes but also contribute to more compassionate and whole people who inhabit and utilize them.