Intentional Spaces
5
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.
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
sti mulate 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.
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.
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.
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.•
“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.”
