Interior Spaces that Support Mental Health: Project Spotlights

The spaces you spend time in—whether for work, learning, healing, or recreation—have a powerful impact on how you feel. Interior design goes beyond how a space looks; it shapes how you interact with it, how comfortable and focused you feel, and even how safe or supported you are.

As Elevatus continues to explore new ways to enhance mental health through design, these select projects highlight how thoughtful spaces can support well-being in many forms—spiritual, mental, physical, and beyond. Each one reflects our commitment to creating environments that offer meaningful impact and essential support for those who use them.

Indiana Tech Zollner Engineering Center

The Indiana Tech Zollner Engineering Center features a spacious area designed to be welcoming and comfortable for users. The orange accent wall within the space creates an invigorating atmosphere, as orange is known to stimulate mental activity and foster creativity and playfulness. Additionally, large windows provide natural light and offer views of nature, contributing to an improved mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety for users, often subconsciously.

Levan R. Scott Academy

At FWCS Levan R. Scott Academy Elementary School, the Media Center creates a space that feels fun, energizing, and inviting – perfect for young learners. The combination of bright blue and green colors creates a dynamic and balanced environment, where the blue helps to calm and focus students, while the green stimulates and energizes them. The circular design features in the ceiling clouds and round light fixtures are intended to mimic natural and organic forms that feel soft, safe and welcoming. This media center doesn’t just house books—it sparks excitement about learning.

YMCA of Muncie

Upon entering the YMCA of Muncie, visitors are greeted by an inviting lobby and reception area. The wooden ceiling baffle feature introduces the natural warmth of wood, fostering a connection to nature. The paneling on the reception desk is designed with a pattern reminiscent of water ripples. The incorporation of biophilic design elements, combined with blue accents in the paint, furniture, flooring, and lighting, enhances comfort, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of belonging.

PrayerWorks

Upon entering the Prayer Room at Electric Works Campus, users are immediately immersed in a serene environment. The space features soft lighting and natural elements, such as wood and stone, which help reconnect the senses to the Earth, creating a grounding experience. The use of soft purples in the paint, furniture, and drapery enhances a sense of quiet reverence and connection to something greater, as purple is traditionally associated with spirituality, wisdom, and serenity. Whether individuals are engaged in prayer, meditation, or simply resting, the room fosters an atmosphere that promotes emotional safety, centeredness, and restoration.

Goshen Health Patient Tower

The Goshen Health Patient Tower cafeteria is designed to offer a comfortable space for visitors to gather, rest, and refresh. This area incorporates various biophilic elements including natural wood finishes, abstract tree motifs in space partitions, column paneling that mimics water ripples, and blue color schemes. Exposure to these natural textures and colors can help reduce emotional stress, promoting relaxation among users. The biophilic design aims to provide emotional stability and tranquility, even during challenging times.