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Intentional Spaces creating spaces that feel just right “When you have heightened aesthetic experiences. They change you. They change your biology. They change your mood. They change your emotion” —Susan Magsamen — at home
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Intentional Spaces “Neuroaesthetic research has allowed us to identify a myriad of factors that contribute to a sense of well-being: color, form, light, the presence of nature , and tactile materials that speak to our senses, easily applicable and combined for the optimal atmosphere at home.” Combining the 5 Principles We know that COLOR deeply affects our mood in a space, helping us feel relaxed or energized. Meanwhile, we seem to be intuitively drawn to rounded FORMS rather than angular, such as the curved armrest of a lounge chair. Similarly, using TACTILE MATERIALS like a textile you like to run your fingers over and surfaces that speak to our sense of touch draws us in and creates a pleasant sensation. Exploring new perspectives on Scandinavian design is key to Muuto’s forward-looking, innovative designs. Intuitively knowing that design has the capacity to greatly affect the way we feel, we continue to believe in the importance of creating intentional atmospheres through a thoughtful selection of furniture, lighting, and accessories. Intuitively, we all know the feeling of entering a room and immediately feeling at ease or stimulated. That interacting with elements of design—be it sensations of light, color, or texture—can trigger emotions and spark a dynamic interplay of neurotransmitters in our brains. This process can shape our feelings, thinking and behavior. There is more to design than meets the eye. Introducing NATURE to our interiors through natural ele- ments like greenery and fresh cut flowers and materials such as wood, wool textiles, ceramics, or clay into our homes has been demonstrated to lower stress levels, promote feelings of calmness, lower our cortisol levels, and promotes well-being. Our circadian rhythm is greatly impacted by both natural and artificial LIGHT . The amount of light, the light tem - perature, and when we are exposed to light, among other things, all play into whether we feel at ease or more alert and focused. For instance, a task light on your home desk can help you stay focused and productive by providing bright, concentrated illumination for your work area. Meanwhile, ambient lighting fosters tranquility and relaxation in our bedroom, enveloping the space in a gentle, soothing glow. The Impact of Neuroaesthetics on Design and Spaces Neuroaesthetics is about mind-body connection: a scientific discipline that explores and measures how creative expression makes an impact on us. It gives a deeper understanding of the way art, design, and architecture activate our senses and stimulate our sense of well-being. Understanding how we respond to different spaces allows us to better discern the connection between body, mind, and design. Through our longstanding collaboration with Susan Magsamen, executive director of the International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University, we continuously ex - plore how to be intentional in shaping the spaces we create. How to Create Intentional Spaces for the Home Neuroaesthetic research has allowed us to identify a myriad of factors that contribute to a sense of well-being. We continue to explore, experiment with and consciously incorporate these into our interiors, creating spaces that feel just right. Among them are five elements that seem to significantly affect us all: color, form, light, the presence of nature, and tactile materials that speak to our senses, easily applicable and combined for the optimal atmosphere at home. 5 We hope our perspectives on Scandinavian design will inspire you to reflect on your surroundings. As you browse through this catalog, let our pictures and words inspire you—and encourage you to create spaces that feel just right for you.•
