Health Interconnection Theory

Health Interconnection Theory: A proposed theory of human centered design
A Final Project Submitted to the Faculty of the Interior Design Department in
Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the
Degree of Master of Arts in Interior Design
Savannah College of Art and Design
By
Lily Riefkohl
E-Learning
(March 2017)

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Dedication
I dedicate this project to God Almighty my creator, my strong pillar, my source of
inspiration, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. He has been the source of my
strength throughout this program and through every aspect of my life. I also dedicate this
work to my family who has encouraged me all the way and whose encouragement has
made sure that I give it all it takes to finish what I have started.

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Acknowledgements
The inspiration for doing the research came from the course Interior Design Theory and
Criticism thought by Prof. Mondo during Winter 2017 quarter, where different theories of
design were discussed and critical thinking was strongly encouraged and practiced.
Without everything learned in that course, from my professor and peers, this research
wouldn’t have been possible.
My thanks and appreciation to Prof. Sweny for guiding me through the course of Interior
Design Final Project.
I am grateful to Carlos Rodriguez, PhD professor from the department of economy from
The University of Puerto Rico for sharing his research knowledge and expertise in the
economic topic of this study. I want to also thanks to Elaine Riefkohl,MD, Vivian Pérez,
MD and Reinaldo Pagán, MD from the Episcopal Hospital San Lucas in Ponce Puerto
Rico for sharing their medical expertise and for being available for interviews and
feedback throughout the research. Additionally, special thanks to Job Bonilla, AIA
Assoc., Luis Rámos, AIA Assoc. and Magda Bardina from the Pontifical Catholic
University of Puerto Rico for the provided insight and expertise that greatly assisted the
research. At last but not least, I want to thanks Claudie Laratta for helping editing this
work and for providing comments that greatly improved the manuscript.

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Table of Contents
List of Figures v
List of Tables vii
Abstract 1
Introduction 2
Problem Statement 4
Justification of Research 5
Definitions of terminology 9
Review of Literature
Introduction of Literature Review 12
Environmental problems 18
Health Issues 24
Design Theories 27
Research Methods 39
Data Analysis
Quantitative Data 41
Qualitative Data
Perspective from Medical Professional 51
Perspective from Design Professional 52
Creative Research 54
Principles of HIT 56
Conclusions 59
Research Limitations 64

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Future Research 65
Bibliography 66
Appendices 71

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List of Figures
Figure 1: Health factors domino effect diagram 5
Figure 2: Environmental factors domino effect diagram 6
Figure 3: General Perspective of the Current situation 8
Figure 4: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs 12
Figure 5: Sym Van Der Ryn Ecological Epoch (Sym Van Der Ryn, 1997) 14
Figure 6: Effect of environment in mental health 25
Figure 7: Depression, anxiety, stress; the overwhelming feeling 26
Figure 8: Phenomenology in design (Kai, 2013) 27
Figure 9: Sym Van Der Ryn Consciousness Structure (Sym Van Der Ryn, 1991) 29
Figure 10: Biomimicry, inspired by nature (Trubridge, D., 2016) 31
Figure 11: Biophilic Architecture (Terrapin, 2015) 32
Figure 12: Continuity, connectedness and balance 33
Figure 13: Feng Shui energy map (Tchi, 2017) 35
Figure 14: Comparing survey results: People with design background vs people
without a background in design 41
Figure 15: Household size. 42
Figure 16: Renting vs. Owning 43
Figure 17: Surveyors positive responses towards their home environment 44
Figure 18: Surveyors contradictions to their positive responses 44
Figure 19: Surveyors negative responses regarding feeling and description
of their home environment 44
Figure 20: Rate of depression, anxiousness and stress among surveyors 45
Figure 21: Surveyors clutter comparison 46

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Figure 22: Reasons for not pursuing home improvements. 46
Figure 23: Surveyors allergy comparison. 47
Figure 24: Presence of enjoyable view or landscape at housing environment 48
Figure 25: Surveyor’s existence or lack of vegetation in their housing
Environment. 48
Figure 26: Surveyor’s existence or lack of natural ventilation in their housing
environment. 49
Figure 27: Surveyor’s use of A/C in their housing environment. 50
Figure 28: Design of interior environment without the application of HIT. 55
Figure 29: HIT Principles color palette based in elements and orientation. 57

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List of Tables
Table 1: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with human 16
Wellness
Table 2: Environmental effect of greenhouse emissions, global warming 20
and Heat Island Effect
Table 3: Effect of plants in wellness and its maintenance requirements 22
Table 4: Health beneﬁts of Design theories implemented in HIT 36
Table 5: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with design Theories 37

Health Interconnection Theory: A Proposed Theory of Human Centered Design
Lily Riefkohl
M.A. in Interior Design Savannah College of Art and Design
March 2017
Abstract
This project is based in human centered design and develops a new theory which outlines
the principles needed to promote human wellness and improve the quality of an interior
single family housing environment. The proposal emerges from the study of several
design theories (Attention Restoration Theory, Biophilia, Biomimicry, Color Theory,
Feng Shui, Gestalt, History Based Theory, Phenomenology, Wabi Sabi, and Zen Theory)
and the selection of some elements of those theories to solve either wellness or
environmental issues, currently affecting the Puerto Rican population. Wellness issues
are divided into mental issues and physical issues; addressing anxiety, depression, stress,
comfort, mobility, allergies, and respiratory problems developed in interior environments.
The environmental factors addressed aim to reduce air pollutants and temperature, while
also increase oxygen, improve air quality and promote sustainable practices. Surveys
were performed to gather quantitative data regarding resident’s perceptions of their
housing environment. Additionally, medical interviews and designer’s interviews were
performed throughout the qualitative research part of this study, in search for professional
input regarding each element of design applied in HIT. The principles developed were
applied to an interior space as part of the creative research process, where through the use
of observation, a focus group experienced a home environment before and after the
theory was implemented. Research validated the original hypothesis and demonstrated
the principles presented in HIT provides positive effects in the user.
Keywords: environment, housing, theory, wellness
1

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Introduction
“Design is the expression of the envelope that surrounds you at work, at home, at play,
everywhere. It’s creating an experience, an emotion, or a story of your surroundings;
helping life’s functions to be pleasing to the senses while organizing you.”
-Jessica Mann Amato, IIDA, LEED AP, President Elect IIDA NY Chapter and Senior
Project Manager, NELSON, New York, N.Y.
An interior environment must be able to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the user
(AIA, 2016), as well as foresee and evade future problems by generating functional
solutions for an environment that will improve quality of life and enhance the experience
of a user in an interior space (NCIDQ, 2004). The intervention must occur within, and/or
responding to a building shell or a structure without impairing bearing loads and
mechanical systems (NCIDQ, 2004).
It must also respond to an area, a context, a culture (Ryn, 2005), a population, a climate
(Brand, 2015) and many other aspects which affects directly or indirectly, in a micro or a
macro scale, the performance and wellbeing of humans (Altman, 1976) , communities,
environment and regions (Szokolay, 2014).
There are currently many design theories that address mental health, physical health and
environmental concerns, individually (Green, 2012). Nevertheless, none of the theories
outline a design solution to improve overall mental and physical health of the user, while
also improving the user experience and taking into consideration environmental concerns
(Green, 2012).
This study further investigates the way Puerto Ricans perceive their single family housing
environment through research and documentation of their living environment and the

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perception and feelings derived from it. By reviewing and carefully selecting specific
elements of existing theories, such as Attention Restoration Theory, Biophilia,
Biomimicry, Color Theory, Feng Shui Theory, Gestalt Theory, History Based Theory,
Phenomenology, Universal Design, Wabi Sabi, and Zen Design Theory, it is developed a
new theory that provides solutions to reduce anxiousness and depression (Baxter, 2013)
and to improve air quality, lighting, accessibility and human comfort in Puerto Ricans
housing.
Using the human as the focal point, and focusing on human-centered design; the Health
Interconnection Theory uncovers the sources of problems and effectively delineates
design principles that will commendably promote human health.

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Problem Statement
A new theory oriented to promote mental and physical health can be developed through
the study of several interior design theories, achieving an improvement in human
wellness, spatial enjoyment, and the environmental experience of Puerto Rican
population in their housing settings.

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Justification of Research
The rate of depression, anxiety and stress cases has significantly raised in Puerto Rico
during the last year due to social matters such as: economy, unemployment, immigration,
and government issues among others (Pares, 2017). Situations that are currently affecting
adults, and leaving them feeling unstable, are also affecting children and families as a
whole (Gonzalez, 2017). Income limitations have made it impossible for families to
afford health insurance consequently not being able to receive proper health care and
directly causing a detriment in the health of the overall population (Matos Perez, 2017).
Figure 1: Health factors domino effect diagram
Authors own image, (2017) Health factors domino effect diagram [Online in-formation]. Adapted from
gathered information, Noticel, CCCPR, Resumen Ejecutivo, retrived from:
http://www.noticel.com/uploads/gallery/documents/CCCPR_ResumenE-jecutivo.pdf

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Even when the unemployment rate has declined, the amount of Puerto Ricans migrating
to the United States and other countries seeking employment have significantly
increased (Rodriguez, 2017). This increase has been due to lack of employment
opportunities for professionals, being only the 32% of the population the working group
of the island (GFR, 2016). Even when the inflation rate has only increase 1.6% from
February 2016 to February 2017 (Rodriguez, 2017), the general income of population has
decreased, leaving less money for the people to spend (Rodriguez, 2017).
Figure 2: Environmental factors domino effect diagram
Authors own image, (2017) Environmental factors domino effect diagram [Online in-formation]. Adapted
from gathered information, Noticel, CCCPR, Resumen Ejecutivo,retrived from:

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Environmental changes, such as global warming, heat island effect and greenhouse effect
has also affected Puerto Rico in a negative manner (Cortes, 2017), resulting not only in
warming temperatures, but also showing increases in the frequency and intensity of
weather events, and rising sea levels. These impacts threaten the health of the overall
population by affecting the agriculture, water, air quality and human comfort (EPA,
2017), to which the government have had poor to no response due to lack of economic
resources to manage the issue (Cortes, 2017).
This economic debacle has also resulted in a reduction of percentile rate of construction
and home improvements of a -11.3% in fiscal year 2013, -12.4% in fiscal year 2014, -5.5
in fiscal year 2015, -7.2% from 2016 to 2017 (Junta de Planificación) leaving a small
window of opportunity for Puerto Ricans to improve their living environment, and
fostering poor sustainable practices. The labor effort and infrastructure required to
replace the current technology of the island by more sustainable technology would
represent an unacquainted expense to the government, for these reasons, sustainable
practices and technology are not expected to be addressed by the government any time
soon.
Because of the merge of the previously outlined environmental, social, economic and
health problems; the material hereby discussed aims to provide a sustainable and healthy
solution for housing environments in Puerto Rico, while addressing anxiety depression
and air quality issues.

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Figure 3: General Perspective of the Current situation
Authors own image, (2017) General Perspective of the Current situation [Online in-formation]. Adapted
from gathered information, Noticel, CCCPR, Resumen Ejecutivo,retrived from:

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Definition of Terminology
Albedo – Percentage of solar energy reflected by a surface.
Analogous colors – Any three colors positioned side by side on a 12-part color wheel.
Anxiety – General term used to refer to several disorders causing nervousness, fear,
apprehension, and worrying. (Medical News)
Attention Restoration Theory (ART) – Theory in which is suggested how observing or
spending time with nature is able to release mental fatigue and concentration. (Kaplan,
1989, 1995)
Balance – Composition in which opposing forces results in visual stability. (Cornell.edu)
Biommimicry – Represent patterns used by nearly all species to survive and thrive on
Earth.
Chromotherapy – Restorative therapy where color and light are used in order to
promote mental and physical well-being. (Collins dictionary)
Complementary colors – Two colors positioned directly opposite to each other in the
color wheel creating maximum contrast and stability.
Consumerism – Inclination toward the buying of consumer goods. (Merriam-Webster
dictionary)
Contrast – Deliberate placement of elements to create opposition by abrupt transition.
Cool colors – Also called cold colors, are the blues and greens of the color spectrum,
associated with water, sky, ice, and cooler temperatures. (dictionary.com)
Depression – Illness involving the body, mood, and thoughts and that affects the way a
person feels and perform. (Medicine Net)

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Environment – Circumstances, objects, or conditions by which one is surrounded. (
Merriam-Webster dictionary)
Feng Shui – “Ancient Chinese science that study the natural and built environment in
search for balance and harmony between natural energies and human. Elements such as
water, earth, wood, metal and fire are used for design orientation, color selection and
element placement. (UFL.edu)
Global warming – Increase in the earth's atmospheric and oceanic temperatures due to
an increase in the greenhouse effect. ( Merriam-Webster dictionary)
Heat island effect – Drastic increase of temperatures occurring in a rural area due to
human activities and which affects the temperature of adjacent areas. (EPA)
Heat Wave – Periods of abnormally hot, and often humid, weather.
Indoor air quality – Cleanliness of indoor air. (Autodesk Sustainability workshop)
Interior design – Detail oriented, creative problem solving profession, in which interior
settings are planned, design and created to accommodate a client’s intended use of a
particular area.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NOx) – Irritant gas produced by the fusion of nitrogen and oxygen
gases in the air during combustion at elevated temperature; and which at high
concentration causes inflammation of the airways.
Phenomenology – Description and interpretation of human experience (Finlay, 2009)
which question human world’s experiences and intents to understand it through the use of
the senses.” (Segmon, 2000)
Primary Colors – Red, yellow and blue, the 3 pigment colors that cannot be mixed or
formed by any combination of other colors.

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Progression – A sequence or transition produced by increasing or decreasing one or
more qualities.
Radial balance – Arrangement of elements or spaces around a center point.
Renewable resources – Natural resource that can replenish itself naturally over time
(Dictionary.com)
Rhythm – Continuous, harmonious, recurrence or organized movement.
Secondary Colors – Colors formed by mixing two of the primary colors.
Stress – Physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension and
may be a factor in disease causation. ( Merriam-Webster dictionary)
Sustainability – Development that meets the present needs without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Tertiary Colors – Result of the mix of a primary color with a secondary color.
Thermal emittance – Measure of a surface’s ability to shed heat, or emit long-wave
(infrared) radiation.
Urban geometry – Dimensions and spacing of buildings within a city which influences
wind flow, energy absorption, and a given surface’s ability to emit long-wave radiation
back to space.
Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs) – These Gases that cause short and long-term
adverse health effects often emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids.
Warm colors – Also known as the hot colors, yellows and reds of the color spectrum,
associated with fire, heat, sun, and warmer temperatures. (Dictionary.com)

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Literature Review
Introduction of Literature Review
Human-centered design is based on the physical and psychological needs of the human
user, enabling the user to function at the highest level possible (Semsei, 2012). In order to
be able to apply human centered design, it is important to firstly understand human
physical and psychological needs (Heimann, 2002). The humanist psychologist Abraham
Maslow, unveiled a model depicting a hierarchy of needs based in natural instincts
present in all animals (Jerome, 2013). The model stated that once the fundamental needs
are met, a human is able to move up the hierarchy (Jerome, 2013). However, if the
environment is not appropriate for a human being (Table1), he or she will fail to advance
in the hierarchy due to emotional dysfunction (Kopec, 2012). The increasing more
complex levels of needs on Maslow’s hierarchy are: physiological needs, safety needs,
needs for affection and belongingness, needs for esteem and needs for self-actualization
(Figure 4) (Maslow, 1974).
Figure 4: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs
Authors own image, (2017) Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with human wellness.
[Online information]. Adapted from Learning Theories, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, retrieved from:
https://www.learning-theories.com/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs.htm

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Maslow’s physiological needs cover the basic biological needs (air, food, water, among
others) (Kopec, 2012). A person lacking these physiological needs, is directly aﬀected
psychologically, as well as physiological, since basic elements of survival will not be
provided in order to sustain a person (Binns). Nevertheless, having this phase of
physiological needs covered does not imply that the quality of the elements provided is
appropriate (Table 1) and beneficial for the user (Heimann, 2002). Furthermore,
providing poor physiological conditions to a human, in other words contaminated water
or poor air quality, a person will be equally endangering his/her physical health (Table 1)
(Edwards and Torcellini, 2002).
Current environmental issues such as global warming, heat island effect and greenhouse
effect have contributed to the detriment of people health due to raise in climatic
temperature (Akbari, 2005), increase of air pollutants, change in water quality and
changes in ecosystems and living environments, among many other factors (Thakur,
2013). These environmental issues have resulted not only in a change in physical health
stability, increasing respiratory diseases and allergies, but also rising the statistics of
premature death due to heat conditions (EPA, 2016).
Even when the mere design of one space cannot change this negative effect human
practices have caused to the environment; performing sustainable practices can improve
the environment a person lives in (Akbari, 2005). Moreover, sustainable practices
performed by a large mass of people can make a serious contribution to the environment,
helping reduce the effects global warming have had nowadays (Essick, 2017).

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Nature presence has been evident throughout human and civilization’s development
(Kapplan, 1995). However, its importance and role when it comes to human interaction
has significantly shifted with time. In the archaic epoch the need of safety was met by
natural shelter (i.e. cave), because the relationship between human and nature was
instinctive and direct (Ryn, 2005). Nowadays the relationship between human and nature
has evolved, and after many years of natural destruction and neglecting of natural
presence, today human understand the integral (Ryn, 2005) need of nature as well as the
need to respect and coexist with it. The need of safety (Maslow, 1974) merged with the
human consciousness structure (Ryn, 2005) has lead human civilizations to change and
develop technologies (Figure 5) in order to improve their comfort and quality of life
(Edwards & Torcellini, 2002). Some of these technologies that fostered comfort and
depicted a sign of evolution are: air conditioning, electrical appliances, among many
other items that simplify human daily tasks (Mackenzie, 2016). Nevertheless, these
advances in technology also represented an increase in the use of nonrenewable
resources, hence promoting the environmental debacle (Graham, 2003).
Figure 5: Sym Van Der Ryn Ecological Epoch (Sym Van Der Ryn, 1997)
Sym Van Der Ryn, 1997, Towards an Ecological Epoch, [online image, drawing] retrieved from:
http://simvanderryn.com/philosophy/

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During the evolution, humanity changed the perspective towards nature, and instead of
respecting it, exploited it with the sole purpose of evolution (Collins, 1998). This
evolution not only resulted in the destruction and even extinction of some natural
resources, but also in the detachment of humanity from nature, neglecting the intrinsic
connection and the respect civilization had for nature in the archaic epoch (Ryn, 1991).
This evolution did not take into account the physical and mental needs of human to
connect with nature and the health benefits it provides to population (Downton, 2017).
An example of this detachment can be depicted by the use of natural light. Before the
1940s, daylight was the primary light source in buildings; however, technological
advances allowed artificial light to replace the natural light (Forehand, 1964). Yet, the
benefits provided by natural light to the user has been well documented, concluding it not
only provide significant energy savings to building owners and managers, but also has
result in mental and physical health. (Edwards & Torcellini, 2002)
Maslow’s hierarchy list the safety needs (Table 1) as second element in the pyramid
hierarchy (Maslow, 1974). Lighting is one design element that could be applied in order
to provide safety needed (Mercola, 2015). However, it is also imperative the security of a
home that would protect a person from inclement weather and from intruders in order to
accomplish the safety need (Ohlsson, 1984). The United States government outlined
seven fundamental principles to the right to housing in order to guarantee that everyone
can exercise this right to live in security, peace, and dignity (NESRI, n.d.), therefore
providing human with the safety element. The seven principles to the right of housing
are: security of tenure, availability of services, affordability, habitability, accessibility,

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location and cultural adequacy. Taking in consideration that these principles are the basic
requirements a person needs, is explicit that physiological as well as safety needs are
recognized (Jerome, 2013) by the government to be imperative when it comes to
humanity.
Habitability and accessibility are two topics widely discussed in design, not only because
of the need to provide access to every user in all space indiscriminately, but also because
of the need of safety of a user in a space, guaranteeing that the health, safety and welfare
of the user will not be compromised by the use of a building (AIA, n.d.). Codes,
regulations and laws in the U.S. have established minimal requirements in order to
provide accessibility to people with disadvantages (ADA, n.d.). In addition, many
theorists and professionals have dedicated time to the study of habitability and
accessibility for human housing and outlined solutions to betterment the quality of life
(Forehand, Gilmer, 1964). Due to the impressionistic links between improvements in
housing and increased productivity, health, and other measures of wellbeing, many
design theories have also studied the wellbeing of human (Cardy, Selvarajan, 2004), and
the effect of natural light, vegetation and nature in general in human performance
(Bratton, Gold, 2001).
Table 1: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with human wellness
Authors own image, (2017) Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with human wellness.
[Online information]. Adapted from Learning Theories, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, retrieved from:
https://www.learning-theories.com/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs.html

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The framework of this study comprise environmental issues, wellness issues and design
theories. The environmental factors include global warming, greenhouse effect, heat
island effect and the causes, outcome and solutions to each situation. The wellness
section discusses the physical or mental health, and how environmental factors acts as
stressors to human wellness and comfort. Additionally, it discusses the possible ways to
either solve or reduce these stressors, therefore improving quality of life. Furthermore,
design theories such as: as Attention Restoration Theory, Color Theory, Feng Shui
Theory, Gestalt Theory, History Based Theory, Phenomenology, Universal Design, Wabi
Sabi and Zen Design are discussed and some principles of each theory are selected to
address environmental and wellness factors.
Qualitative and quantitative research methods are applied in order to prove the validity of
the theory herby discussed, limiting the area of study to Puerto Rican environmental
factors and single family housing situation.

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Environmental Issues
U.S. tropical islands including Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, are
especially susceptible to the risks of climate change due to their small size, low elevation,
isolated geographical location, and concentration of infrastructure along coastlines (US
Global Change Research Program, 2009). Islands also possesses unique ecosystems,
including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and diverse populations of native species found
nowhere else in the world (Sailor, 2002). These ecosystems, already overwhelmed from
human development and pollution, become particularly sensitive to additional pressures
from climate change (Shah, 2014).
Since mid 20th century, Puerto Rico have been experiencing rising air temperatures,
rising sea levels, warmer, more acidic coastal waters, heavy rainstorms among many
other natural phenomenal changes that have been negatively affecting the island’s
ecosystems (EPA, n.d.). Temperatures are expected to increase even more based on
location, elevation, and changes in ocean conditions (EPA, 2016).
Carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, is considered to be the main pollutant causing the
warming conditions (Rinkesh, 2016). Even when living organisms emit carbon dioxide
while breathing, this greenhouse gas is widely considered to be a pollutant when
associated with cars, planes, power plants, and other human activities that involve the
burning of fossil fuels (EPA, n.d.). In the past 150 years, such activities have increased
the carbon dioxide rate to a point where the levels have risen higher than they have
been for hundreds of thousands of years (CDC, 2006). It has gone to the extent that
human activity has increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the air by forty percent
(40%) since the late 1700s (EPA, 2016). These gases have warmed the surface and lower

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atmosphere about one degree during the last fifty (50) years (EPA, 2017). Evaporation
increases as the atmosphere warms, increasing humidity, average rainfall, and the
frequency of heavy rainstorms in many places, while contributing to drought in others
(Table 2) (Essick, 2017).
Raises in temperature, beside incrementing greenhouse emissions, also increases the rate
of ground-level ozone formation (Rinkesh, 2016). Ground-level ozone is formed when
NOx (nitrogen dioxide) and VOCs (volatile organic compound) react in the presence of
sunlight and hot weather (Shah, 2014). If the level of precursor emissions in the air, wind
speed and direction remain equal, more ground-level ozone will form as the environment
becomes sunnier and hotter (EPA, 2016). This will contribute to formation of heat island
exacerbating the impact of heat waves (Berdahl, Bretz. 1997).
Increased daytime temperatures, reduced nighttime cooling, and higher air pollution
levels associated with urban heat islands (Table 2) can affect human health by
contributing to general discomfort, respiratory difficulties, heat cramps and exhaustion,
non-fatal heat stroke, and heat-related mortality (CDC, 2006).
Since 1950, the frequency of warm nights in Puerto Rico has increased by about fifty
percent (50%). Currently in San Juan, the overnight low is above seventy-seven (77°)
degrees about ten percent (10%) of the time (EPA, 2010).
Raises in temperature (Table 2) elevate high pavement and rooftop surface temperatures
leading into warming storm water runoff (James, 2002). Tests have shown that
pavements that are a hundred degree 100ºF (38°C) can elevate initial rainwater
temperature from roughly seventy degrees (70ºF) (21ºC) to over ninety-five degrees
(95ºF) (35ºC) (EPA, 2016). Heated storm water generally becomes runoff, which drains

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into storm sewers and raises water temperatures as it is released into streams, rivers,
ponds, and lakes (James, 2002).
Urban heat islands raise demand for electrical energy in summer (Table 2) . Companies
that supply electricity typically rely on fossil fuel (EPA, n.d.) power plants to meet much
of this demand, which in turn leads to an increase in air pollutant and greenhouse gas
emissions. Even when many governments around the world are actively working in order
to reduce their country gas emissions, economy in Puerto Rico has made the government
unavailable to deal with this important issue (GFR, 2016).
Table 2: Environmental effect of greenhouse emissions, global warming and Heat Island Effect
Authors own image, (2017) Environmental effect of greenhouse emissions,global warming and Heat Island
Effect [Online information]. Data gathered from Rinkesh.(2016, December 24). Causes and Effects of
Environmental Degradation. Retrievedhttp://www.conserve-energy-future.com/causes-and-ef-March 09,
2017, from effects-of-environmental-degradation.php
Pollutants released by the use of air conditioning are harmful to human health and also
contribute to complex air quality problems such as the formation of ground-level ozone
(smog), fine particulate matter, and acid rain (Mackenzie, 2016). Increased use of fossil-

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fuel-powered plants also increases emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide
(CO2), which contribute to global climate change (Akbari, 2005).
Even when a mere design of an interior space cannot reverse the harm done by human
activities, certain elements of design can reduce the elevated temperatures of Puerto
Rican housing, hence reducing the need of electricity in order to cool down spaces (EPA,
2010). Addition of vegetation in housing environment not only will provide shades to the
property, but will also lower the surface temperatures (Main, 2016). Beside reducing
temperatures, plants like Boston fern, palm trees, bamboo palm, areca palm, lady palm,
parlor palm, rubber plant, Janet Craigs, English ivy, Peace Lily and Golden photos (Table
3) are known to be of great benefit for air purification, while also been able to remain
indoors without need of much natural light (Main, 2016).
Urban areas typically have surface materials with lower albedo than those in rural
settings, resulting in less reflectance and more absorption of sun’s energy. This absorbed
heat increases surface temperatures and contributes to the formation of surface and
atmospheric urban heat islands. Although solar reflectance is the main determinant of a
material’s surface temperature, thermal emittance, also present a significant effect. Light
colored materials and surfaces will possess high emittance values, allowing them to stay
cooler due to the readily heat release (James, 2002). On the other hand, dark colors
possess low emittance value, allowing a high light absorption which is later converted
into thermal energy (Berdal, Bertz, 1997). Is because of this that in order to reduce
housing temperatures, the use of light colored materials or materials with low reflectance
value is highly recommended (Sailor, 2002).

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Table 3: Effect of plants in wellness and its maintenance requirements
Authors own image, (2017) Environmental effect of greenhouse emissions,glob-al warming and Heat
Island Effect [Online information]. Data gathered from Main, E. (2016, June 30). 7 Plants That Purify
Indoor Air. Retrieved April 15, 2017,http://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/garden/7-plants-purify-indoor-air
Many building materials, such as steel and stone, have higher heat capacities than dry soil
and sand (James, 2002). As a result, many buildings are typically more effective at
storing the sun’s energy as heat within their infrastructure, especially if urban geometry is

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obstructed by neighboring buildings, which disable heat release. Homeowners can
integrate natural materials in the interior design in order to provide a more comfortable
interior environment and reduce the effect previously caused by poor sustainable
practices (Van den Berg, Hartig, Staats, n.d.).

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Health Issues
The island of Puerto Rico has been affected by the economic recession since 2008
(Rodríguez, 2017). Consequently, the population of the island been facing chronic major
stressors which have been contributing in a negative way on the mental health of the
population (Irizarry Alvarez, 2016). Some of these stressors (Figure 6) are: high levels of
unemployment or underemployment, poverty, drastic population reduction and higher
levels of crime (Torres, 2017).
Seven point three percent (7.3%) of Puerto Rican adults between the ages of eighteen and
sixty-four (18-64) suffer from a serious mental condition being twenty percent (20%) of
this population a victim of some psychiatric condition (Canino, 2017). Ten percent (10%)
of Puerto Rican population suffers from severe depressive disorders, while twenty-three
point seven percent (23.7%) combines some mental condition with drug and/or alcohol
abuse (Canino, 2017). Statistics confirm that forty percent (40%) of the population with
mental problems receive no treatment of any kind.
The main conditions that affect Puerto Ricans are disorders of anxiety, such as general
anxiety and panic, and mood disorders, such as depression, which, according to the study,
live in one in ten (1/10) Puerto Ricans (Irizarry, 2016).
A study performed by the Research Institute of Behavioral Sciences of the Medical
Sciences Campus of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) for the Administration of
Mental Health and Addiction Services (ASSMCA, 2016), warns of the danger that the
critical fiscal situation in Puerto Rico will end up affecting the services of mental health
patients. The Health Insurance Administration (ASES), which administers the
government's Health Plan, which is dependent on nearly two million Puerto Ricans, faces

25
20
a critical fiscal shortfall that has caused it to incur multi-million dollar debts with its
suppliers (Torres, 2017).
ASES debt represents a significant threat to maintaining an operational health system.
The debt has unleashed a cascade of situations, including longer waits for clinical and
therapeutic procedures, crowded emergency rooms, attempts to charge patients directly
for services, and a growing exodus of Puerto Rican doctors. According to the College of
Physicians Surgeons, three hundred and sixty-four (36)4 doctors left Puerto Rico in 2014
and five hundred (500) in 2015.
Figure 6: Effect of environment in mental health
Authors own image, (2017) Effect of environment in mental health. [Online information]. Adapted from:
Primera Hora (2016, May 23). Alarmante panorama mental entre adolescentes. Retrieved April 23, 2017,
from: http://www.primerahora.com/noticias/puerto-ri-co/nota/alarmantepanoramamentalentreadolescentes-
1154817/

26
The analysis also warns that the uncertainty and deterioration in the quality of life that
Puerto Rico is experiencing due to the fiscal crisis has the potential to increase the
prevalence of mental health conditions (Figure 7) in the coming years (ASSMCA, 2016).
Figure 7: Depression, anxiety, stress; the overwhelming feeling
Authors own image, (2017) Depression,anxiety, stress; the overwhelming feeling. [Online information].
Adapted from: Primera Hora (2016, May 23). Alarmante panorama mental entre adolescentes. Retrieved
April 23, 2017, from http://www.primerahora.com/noti-cias/puerto-
rico/nota/alarmantepanoramamentalentreadolescentes-1154817/

27
Design Theories
A phenomenological perspective (Figure 8) recognizes that, existentially, people and
environment are not separate and two but indivisible and one (Pallasma, 2009).
Understanding ''Architectural sustenance" (Van Dem Berg, 2000) as the way that
elements of the designable environment contribute to human well-being; moreover
describing phenomenology as the description and interpretation of human experience
(Finaly, 2006), which mainly aims to question its surroundings (Seamon, 2000) and
intents to understand the world human being lives in (Manen, 1990); we could state that
phenomenology provides one conceptual and methodological means for examining the
spatial, environmental, and architectural dimensions of human life (Seamon, 2015).
Figure 8: Phenomenology in design (Kai, 2013)
Kai, 2013, Black and white architecture photography,[photography],retrieved from:
https://vaillantmartien.wordpress.com/2013/10/13/kai-ziehl-black-and-white-architecture-
photography/2013

28
22
A phenomenology of "environmental embodiment" (Pallasma, 2009) examines
sensuously and motility-wise living experiences the body encounters, understands, and
synchronizes with the world at hand (Finaly, 2006). The five senses (sight, sound, smell,
taste and touch) are the sources through which humans understand and give meaning to
emotions (Felicity, 2016), exerting the authority to persuade, relax and heal. Design that
speaks to the senses can evoke comfort and relaxation and provoke improvement in
mental health. While smell, can trigger associations and draw up memories; touch can be
perceived by variation of textiles and textures providing a personal and unique experience
to the user; and sight can identify geometrical association as well as difference in hues
and colors. Even when color is visually apparent and can also be part of the Color
Theory, it can also be related to taste, since it affects the essence of the food taste (Leon,
2010).
The importance of color theory lie in the effect colors can have on people. While
analogous colors can create harmonious composition, complementary colors create
maximum contrast and stability (Ciotti, 2014). Studies of color and its direct relationship
with psychology has demonstrated that color can trigger emotions, since they can be
related to specific things, acquiring symbolism and meaning (Gage, 1993).
The color of a space can change a person’s perception of an environment (Morin, 2014).
Warm colors tend to create the illusion of warmer temperatures in a room, while cool
colors cause people to estimate the temperature is colder (Ciotti, 2014). Even color
evokes similar emotional responses in most people (Morin, 2014), the meaning and

29
reaction of a person in regards to a color could be also tied to cultural o societal
background (Birren, 2013).
Culturally human history has been divided into four stages of consciousness (archaic,
magical, mythical, and mental/rational) (Figure 9) in which nature, technology, and
design interventions are examined (Sim Van der Ryn. 2005). By revisiting the past and
integrating natural colors and elements in a design, a person can draw associations and
feel contact with his/her culture, therefore feeling more comfortable in a space (Sim Van
der Ryn. 2005).
Figure 9: Sym Van Der Ryn Consciousness Structure (Sym Van Der Ryn, 1991)
Sym Van Der Ryn, 1991, Consciousness Structure,[online image, drawing] retrieved from:
http://simvanderryn.com/philosophy/

30
If we relate color theory and color association with the relationship people has with their
past and the archaic relationship the first civilization (Figure 9) had with nature, (Sim
Van Der Ryn, 2005) as has been done in studies of human response to color, we could
argue green is associated to broader thinking and more creative thought due to the
positive reminder to nature and regrowth (Morin, 2014). Is because of this, that we claim
is imperative to include Biomimicry into design in order to appeal to people’s cultural
background. Biomimicry describes how design can be inspired by an organism, using and
applying the same functional concepts an organism follows in order to survive, (Benyus,
2009). It can be divided in two basic dimensions, the first being the “organic naturalistic
dimension” which shapes and forms symbolically reflect human affinity for nature; and
the second being the “place-based or vernacular” dimension, defined as context that
connects to the culture and ecology of a geographical area. These two dimensions can be
related to six biophilic design elements outlined by Stephen Robert Kellert in
“Dimensions, elements and attributes of biophillic design” (Heerwagen, 2008). Such
elements are: environmental features, natural shapes, natural processes, light and space,
place-based relationships and evolved human-nature relationships (Heerwagen, Kellert
and Mador, 2009).
Approaches to biomimicry as a design process typically either define a design problem in
search for a biological response of how an ecosystem solve it (Graham, 2003), or
identifying a particular characteristic in an organism or ecosystem translating it into
human needs influencing a design by biology (Guild, 2007). Acting like nature (Figure
10), or intending to search in nature as design inspiration, might be the first step into
recovery from the natural debacle previously exposed in the environmental section.

31
Figure 10: Biomimicry, inspired by nature (Trubridge, D., 2016)
Trubridge, D., 2016, [photography]retrieved from: http://assets.inhabitat.com/wp-
content/blogs.dir/1/files/2016/02/David-Trubridge-Navicula-Lighting-Diatom-Front.jpg
Biophilic design theory intends to reduce environmental impact and mitigate adverse
impact on the natural environment (Browning, Ryan & Clancy, 2016), which takes in
consideration: color, water, air, sunlight, natural materials, views, geology, landscape,
habitats and ecosystems including flora and fauna (Heerwagen, Kellert, 2008). As a
structure to organize knowledge of how people interact with the environment and how
the environment reacts to human behavior (Figure 11), biophilia is able to measure
impacts of health, wellbeing and performance (Downton, 2017); directly impacting
mental wellness by reducing stress, enhancing creativity and thoughts clarity, while at the
same time improves physical wellbeing by improving air quality and human comfort
(Browning, Ryan & Clancy, 2014).

32
Exposure to natural environments encourages more effortless brain function, thereby
allowing it to recover and replenish its directed attention capacity (Kaplan, 1995). Taking
in consideration the fatigue caused by direct attention performed by human while
processing information, an experience that relieves that fatigue or mental exhaustion is
required in order to improve human experience (Korplea and Hartig, 2001). In order for
nature to provide such benefit to human and reduce mental fatigue, the person should feel
immersed in the environment, nevertheless experiencing a different environment than the
one he or she usually perform daily activities. In addition, the individual must appreciate
the environment, therefore nature capturing his or her attention effortlessly (Korplea,
2001).
Figure 11: Biophilic Architecture (Terrapin, 2015)
Terrapin, 2015 [photography]retrieved from: https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/wp-
content/uploads/2015/11/Case-Studies_header-740x414.jpg
The natural patterns and processes of biophilic theory takes in consideration sensory
variability, information richness, age, change, time, growth, focal point, patterns,
bounded spaces, transitional spaces, linked series and chains, integration of parts as

33
whole, complementary contrast, dynamic balance and tension, fractals, hierarchical
organized ratios and scales(Heerwagen, Kellert, Mador, 2008). Curiously the natural
patterns and processes of biophilic design have an intrinsic relationship with the Gestalt
theory (Guberman, 2015), in which is stated that the mind perceives everything in its
simplest forms, and where concepts of figure-ground, proximity, similarity, common fate,
common region, continuity, closure and elements of connectedness are implemented
(Busche, 2016) (Figure 12). This theory allows the mind to read better forms and spaces,
allowing human to better orient themselves, effortlessly processing a space and a visual
composition (Ohlsson, 1984).
Scientific studies have proved that 80 percent of learning is based on visual images.
Crowded spaces or clutter spaces can trigger emotions and affect human comfort.
Visually, not only design elements but also clutter and people can affect the way a space
is perceived (Leon, 2000).
Figure 12: Continuity, connectedness and balance
Authors own image, Continuity, connectedness and balance,2013 [photography]

34
By implementing some elements of Zen Design such as: “Kanso” (simplicity and
elimination of clutter), Shizen (naturalness), “Yugen” (subtley or profound suggestion
rather than revelation), we will be able to restore human comfort and to ease the mind of
the user (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989).
Furthermore, by orienting home spaces to their geographical position, as done in Feng
Shui, and overlapping the elements of nature, balance and harmony between natural
energies and human will consequently flow; allowing the user to feel peacefully and at
ease (Kennedy, 2011).
The Feng Sui theory study the natural and built environment and orient natural elements
(water - north, earth – southwest & northeast, wood - southeast, metal northwest & west
and fire - south) to a geographical position in search for harmony between human and
nature (Cheung Golango, 2007). Even when Feng-shui does cover many more other
elements, the theory herby rpesented only uses the geographical position orientation and
its relationship with the different elements. By orienting the house and applying design
features that represent the corresponding natural element, the human body will be
presented into space as a subject (Pallasma, 2009) allowing the designer to point toward
its wider-scaled movements, behaviors, and actions extending over time and space
(Seamon, 1979).
Understanding how certain colors can produce systematic physiological reactions
manifest in emotional experience (i.e. negative arousal), cognitive orientation (i.e.
outward focus), and overt action (i.e. forceful behavior), the use of color for each element
and geographical position should be balanced in order to prevent the overwhelmed
sensation of the user (Goldstein, 1942). Succeeding conjecturing have discovered that

35
longer wavelength colors provoke arousing or warm feeling, while shorter wavelength
colors feel relaxing or cool feelings (Nakshian, 1956), which if balanced can provide a
beneficial effect to the user in their home (Tchi, 2017).
Figure 13: Feng Shui energy map (Tchi, 2017)
Tchi, R., 2017, Feng Shui Energy Map, [online image], 7 Steps To Good Feng Shui in Your Home.
Retrieved from: https://www.thespruce.com/create-good-feng-shui-in-your-home-1275057
Recognizing the importance of temporal events, and the change in space and time
represented through design (Pallasma, 2009), it is also important to include in interior
settings some elements that depict imperfection, impermanence or incompleteness. Wabi
Sabi communicates well the subtleties of mood, vagueness, and the logic of the heart,

36
however does not explain things in a rational way (Koren, 1994). Understanding how
mental issues can affect rationality, and also taking in consideration that moods are
variable, implementing some elements with sense of vagueness and incompletion, could
be an effective way of relating people’s emotion to an environment.
Table 4: Health beneﬁts of Design theories implemented in HIT
Authors own image, (2017) Health beneﬁts of Design theories implemented in HIT[Books information].
Adapted from data gathered from Pallasmaa. 2009. The Thinking Hand. London: Wiley. Seamon, D.
(2015). The Phenomenological Contribution to Interior Design Education and Research: Place,
Environmental Embodiment, and Architectural Sustenance.The Handbook of Interior Design, 415-431.
Jerome, N., Dr. (2013).Application of the Maslow’s hierarchy of need theory; impacts and implications on
organizational culture, human resource and employee’s performance. International Journal of Business and
Management Invention,2(3), 39-45. Kaplan, R. Kaplan, S. (1989).The Experience of Nature: A
Psychological Perspective. Cambridge University Press.Robbins, P. and Judge, A. (2009). Organizational
Behavior. New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc. Rousseau,D. M. (1990). Assessing Organizational Culture:
The Case for Multiple Methods.Ryn, S.V. “Making the Great Leap Forward,” in Designing for Life: The
Architecture of Sim Van der Ryn (Layton, Utah: Gibbs Smith, 2005), 123 – 175. Ryn, S. V. (2005).Design
for life the architecture of Sim Van der Ryn. Salt Lake City: G. Smith

37
Natural light is another element implemented in design, which could be seen as temporal
and which also support the change in space in time. The different spectrums provided by
the various types of light, provide a significant effect on both aspects of human health
(psychology and physiology). These effects are the less quantifiable and easily
overlooked benefits of daylighting. Daylighting has been associated with improved
mood, enhanced morale, lower fatigue, and reduced eyestrain. One of the important
psychological aspects from daylighting is meeting a need for contact with the outside
living environment (Robbins 1986), which when integrated with architectural elements
can support the effect of phenomenology in an interior space, which provides an intrinsic
effect on human emotions and senses.
Table 5: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with design Theories
Authors own image, (2017) Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and its relationship with design theories [Online
information]. Adapted from Interaction Design Foundation, Needs Before Wants in User Experiences –
Maslow and the Hierarchy of Needs, retrived from:https://www.interaction-
design.org/literature/article/needs-before-wants-in-user-experi-ences-maslow-and-the-hierarchy-of-needs

38
The need of safety is located in the second position in the Maslow’s hierarchy of needs,
while the need of belonging is located at the third level in the Maslow’s hierarchy of
needs (Table 5). It is because the needs of safety and belonging that interior design exist.
It is due to culture and personality that designers have to study the surroundings and
backgrounds to deﬁne client’s needs in order to achieve a more successful space for the
user Beside the basic needs in Maslow’s hierarchy, and the relationship a space can have
with another, a space can also integrate elements, textures and programmatic areas that
help a person achieve self-realization or feel the desire to seek that self-realization
because of the energy the space transmit to the person and how the environment aﬀects a
person’s psychology.

39
Research Methods
This study aims to propose a new theory of human center design in which are outlined
certain conditions needed to promote health and welfare; reduce stress, anxiety and
depression; therefore, obtaining a better living environment. Among those conditions
listed in this theory are: natural light, vegetation, natural ventilation, elimination of
clutter, reorganization of geometric figures, balance of furnishes and design elements in a
space, use of color and the application of natural elements (water, fire, earth, wood and
metal) in different areas organized by geographical orientation.
Quantitative, qualitative and creative research methods have been implemented in order
to validate the theory.
The first portion of data gathered consisted in quantitative research. A survey of 37
multiple choice questions was presented to professional men and women from 30 to 50
years old who had steady job and secure income. During the quantitative part of this
study, twenty people filled this survey. The questions in the survey aim to determine their
feelings in regards to their home and mental wellness.
The second part of the gathered data was collected through the use of qualitative research
methods. Four health professionals were interviewed in order to gather medical data in
regards to the effect of a space in a human behavior, human recovery and human comfort.
Also three design professionals were interviewed to receive information of their
experience with the use of the theories mentioned in the literature review.
For the last portion of the research methods two of these four physicians and three design
professionals, were able to experience the transformation of a space before and after the
theory was applied. Creative research methods, including body language, documentation

40
of their response and later on another interview was performed in order to gather accurate
results.

41
Data Analysis
Quantitative Methods
The questions in the survey aim to determine the feelings of the home user in regards to
their housing environment, comfort and mental wellness. Some participants had
background in design, however none of them were architects nor interior designers and
they only consisted in 30% of the population surveyed. (Figure 14)
Figure 14: Comparing survey results: People with design background vs people without a background in
design
Authors own image. (2017). Comparing survey results: People with design background vs people without a
background in design [Graphic Illustrations]
Only ten percent (10%) of the surveyed population lived alone at home, while sixty
percent (60%) lived in a household of two to three people and the rest thirty percent
(30%) lived in a household of 4 to five people. None of the people surveyed lived in a
household of 6 or more people. (Figure 15)

42
10 % of the surveyed population
Figure 15: Household size.
Authors own image. (2017). Household size Comparing Survey Results [Graphic Illustrations]
Fifty (50%) percent of the surveyed population own the property they live in while the
other fifty percent (50%) rent the property they live in (figure 16). One hundred percent
(100%) of those participants renting the property they live in, does not foresee purchasing
a home anytime soon, nor have considered investing in improvements of the property
they rent.

43
Figure 16: Renting vs. Owning
Authors own image. (2017). Renting vs.Owning. Comparing Survey Results [Graphic Illustrations]
Nine (9) out of the twenty (20) participants used the word comfortable to describe their
housing environment, eight (8) of those nine (9) were able to recognize their comfort
might be due to the familiarity they have with the space and not because the space is
beneficial to them. Even when ten (10) out of twenty (20) people described their home
with positive adjectives such as comfortable, happy, relaxed and peaceful; (figure 16)
nine (9) of those (10) admitted to have or have had episodes of either, depression, stress,
anxiety or several of the above mentioned at home. Only one (1) of the surveyed people
described his/her home as relaxed and denies to have had any anxious, depression or
stress episodes (figure 17). Nine (9) other people described their home environment with
negative adjectives such as depressed, anxious, not inspired, tiring, crowded or sad.
(Figure 19) From these nine (9) people eight (8) admitted to have had some episode of
depression, stress or anxiety while at home (figure18), while one (1) of them denies any
of these negative emotions even when his description of the home is completely
contradictory. There was another participant with contradictory responses, who has since
described his home as a comfortable and relaxed environment, yet also as a sad, tired and
depressed environment while denying any episodes of depression, stress or anxiety
(figure17).

44
Figure 17: Surveyors positive responses towards theirhome environment
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyors positive responses towards their home environment. Comparing
Survey Results [Graphic Illustrations]
Figure 18: Surveyors contradictions to their positive responses
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyors contradictions to their positive responses.Comparing Survey
Results [Graphic Illustrations]
Figure 19: Surveyors negative responses regarding feeling and description of their home environment
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyors negative responses towards their home environment. Comparing
Sixty percent (60%) of the surveyed people had suffered from anxiety, fifty percent
(50%) have suffered from depression and seventy percent (70%) constantly suffer from
stress (Figure20).
A study performed by the Research Institute of Behavioral Sciences of the Medical
Sciences Campus of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) for the Administration of
Mental Health and Addiction Services (ASSMCA, 2016), showed that 10% of Puerto
Rican population suffered from depression, however the present survey depicted a higher

45
case of depression episodes in professionals. Even when this is a very small sample of the
population, the results are alarming.
Figure 20: Rate of depression,anxiousness and stress among surveyors
Authors own image. (2017). Rate of depression,anxiousness and stress among surveyors.Comparing
Fifty percent (50%) of the participants said to have problems concentrating at home.
Thirty percent (30%) of the surveyed population do not feel inspired at home, a forty-five
percent (45%) of the participants sometimes feel inspired while other times do not feel
inspired at in their housing environment. Only the twenty-five percent (25%) of the
participants feel inspired at home. This result implies that the mjority of the population
has felt a lack of inspiration at home at some point.
The perception of a space is a determinant in people’s experience of a space (Leo, 2000).
Crowded spaces or cluttered spaces can trigger emotions and affect human comfort
(Ohlsson, 1984), with being cluttered as one of the elements that can negatively affect

46
the way a space is perceived (Leon, 2000). In this study fourteen (14) out of twenty (20)
participants admitted to having a cljuttered home (figure 21).
Figure 21: Surveyors clutter comparison
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyors clutter comparison. Comparing Survey Results [Graphic
Illustrations]
All of the participants believe a space can affect people’s mood, however none of them
have done remodeling at home. Even when 80% would like to make changes to their
home, the main reason why they have not done any is because of budget (figure 22).
Figure 22: Reasons for not pursuing home improvements
Authors own image. (2017). Reasons for not pursuing home improvements. Comparing Survey Results
[Graphic Illustrations]

47
A 70% of the participants suffer or have someone at home suffering from allergies or
respiratory problem (figure 23), which they solve with pills. None of them knew or
believed that design solutions can improve respiratory problems. However, the
integration of vegetation in designed environments can provide certain benefits unknown
to majority of population.
Figure 23: Surveyors allergy comparison
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyors allergy comparison. Comparing Survey Results [Graphic
Illustrations]
A sixty-five percent (65%) of the surveyed participants recognized having a particular
scene, landscape or specific view in their surroundings which they deeply enjoy (Figure
24). Fourteen (14) participants claim to have plants at home (figure 25). Five of those
participants have plants indoors (Figure 25). Taking in consideration the fatigue caused
by direct attention caused by human activities (Korplea and Hartig, 2001), we could
conclude the integration of natural elements is imperative in a housing environment.
Having a thirty-five percent of the population lacking views or landscape and thirty
percent that lack plants at home, and linking it with the Attention Restoration Theory
studies (Kaplan and Kaplan, 1995).

48
Figure 24: Presence of enjoyable view or landscape at housing environment
Authors own image. (2017). Presence of enjoyable view or landscape at housing environment. Comparing
Figure 25: Surveyor’s existence or lack of vegetation in their housing environment
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyor’s existence or lack of vegetation in their housing environment.
Comparing Survey Results [Graphic Illustrations]
Pollutants released by the use of air conditioning are harmful to human health and also
contribute to complex air quality problems such as the formation of ground-level
ozone (smog), fine particulate matter, and acid rain (Mackenzie, 2016). These pollutants
are known to cause allergies and respiratory problems as showed in figure 20. Opening
windows and doors maximizes natural ventilation so that the risk of airborne contagion is
much lower than with costly, maintenance requiring mechanical ventilation systems

49
(Wilson, 2007). Nevertheless, this study showed that even when fifty-five (55%) of the
population have natural ventilation at home, thirty percent (30%) of the population have
natural ventilation only in some areas, while fifteen percent of the population does not
have any natural ventilation in their housing environments (figure 26).
Figure 26: Surveyor’s existence or lack of natural ventilation in their housing environment
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyor’s existence or lack of natural ventilation in their housing
environment. Comparing Survey Results [Graphic Illustrations]
The fifty-five percent of the population use air conditioning system at home, thirty-five
percent of the population use a/c in some areas only, while only a ten percent do not use
any air conditioning system at all. These facts support the documentation presented in the
literature review in which is stated that population is using a/c to cool down the raises in
temperature that have been occurring in the island (Center for Disease Control and

50
Prevention, 2006). Increased daytime temperatures result in reduced nighttime cooling,
making necessary the use of a/c (Center for disease control and prevention, 2006) in the
majority of the housing environments (figure 27).
Figure 27: Surveyor’s use of A/C in their housing environment
Authors own image. (2017). Surveyor’s use of A/C in their housing environment. Comparing Survey
Results [Graphic Illustrations]
Increases in temperature and incremental rises in greenhouse emissions increases the rate
of ground-level ozone formation. By having the same level of air emission, and having
the wind speed and direction remaining equal, the environment has become sunnier and
hotter, contributing to the formation of heat island effect (Berdahl, Bretz. 1997).
Lighting is considered to be another element that contribute to increases in temperature in
an interior space. Additionally, natural light has been associated with mood
improvements, lower fatigue, and reduced eyestrain (Robbins 1986). From the surveyed
population only a fifty percent (50%) make uses of natural light at most parts of their
housing environment, a thirty-five percent (35%) of the surveyed participants have
natural light in some areas only, while fifteen percent (15%) does not have enough source
of natural light in their interior environment as to be able to not use artificial lighting at
some point of the day.

51
Qualitative Methods
Perspective from Medical Professionals
The first set of interviews were of four professionals from the medical field. There were
sixteen questions in this interview which had generally similar answers. All of the
interviewed medical professionals agreed an interior environment can improve human
health and recognize the effect it has in patient physical and mental recovery.
Additionally, they concurred that elements such as vegetation, natural light and natural
ventilation can enhance a patient’s recovery process. These four professionals
correspondingly considered vegetation, natural light and natural ventilation to be
effective tools for improving human mood, enhancing people’s emotions and balancing a
healthy life. Furthermore, they explained how these can promote the use of the senses and
how the uses of the senses are very important for human recovery as well as for mental
and physical stimulation. When discussing the effect of color on people, three (3) of them
agreed that they can have an effect on human behavior, and can have a significant
influence in the recovery process. The same three, believe that certain colors and shapes
can trigger anxiety or depression episodes, and can see the value of using them as tools to
help prevent and reduce anxiety, stress and depression. All of the interviewed experts
explained how clutter can trigger anxiety attacks and how clutter can affect people with
depression. Nevertheless, even when the responses proved they were skeptical about the
use of energies from elements in an interior space as a tool to trigger positive emotional
responses from the user, they do admit it is due to a cultural factor, since they recognize
the use of energy of stones and the use of elements in Eastern cultures.

52
Perspective from Design Professionals
The second set of interviews were directed towards design professionals. During these
interviews thirty questions were asked to gather the knowledge and experience of these
professionals regarding the different elements applied in this new proposed theory.
Additionally, the questions aimed to gather reasons for using each element or theory. The
three professionals were architects, with experience in the field varying from three (3) to
ten (10) years. They all believe interior design connects with the context, interact with the
structure and merges with architecture, supporting the definition presented in the
literature review. They all believe it is imperative to have a good interior design in order
to enhance the experience of the user, to promote human health and welfare, to improve
human performance, as well as to avoid triggering anxiety episodes and to help alleviate
depression and stress. All the designers agreed that color, as well as geometrical shapes,
and associations can either balance or unbalance a space, creating an effect in the user
experience, therefore in the user behavior.
The participants recognize the need of natural light, ventilation and vegetation in a space,
specially taking in consideration Puerto Rico’s tropical climate where it is necessary to
take advantage of natural elements in order to provide comfort to the user and to produce
a design that promotes not only clean air, but also ease of mind and a change in time and
space as phenomenology does. Responses demonstrated the importance of
Phenomenology in Puerto Rico’s architecture approach, explaining how a space can
speak for itself and can provide energies to the user. Even when energies of a space were
present in the discussion, none of the participants have ever used Feng-Shui in their
designs, nor clearly understand its application in design. Responses demonstrated that

53
due to cultural issues, Feng Shui theory has been superficially mentioned at architecture
schools (Muñoz, 2017) of Puerto Rico, making the application of the theory a trend rather
than solution. Nevertheless, the participants believe that just as materials can emit
energies, Feng Shui might be able to work too, if applied correctly, not only to reduce
stress but to also connect the user of a space with the world at hand.
All of the interviewed designers agree that design can set trends and incrementally
increase consumerism. Even when they find sustainability to be an imperative element of
design, they admit many of their clients see it as a mere trend rather than a need. The
designers also explained how technological development also set trends, affect designs
and consumerism. They understand many technological advances are not as sustainable
as they are advertised. Technological updates are performed very often, launching in the
market new products made to be obsolete once next model is available pushing the
consumerist driven market to keep purchasing and discarding previously purchased
technologies.

54
Creative Research
Through the last part of the study a design was performed with and without the
application of HIT principles and observation methods were performed. The three
designers who participated in the previous section along with two physician experienced
the interior space of a house in two different occasions. During the first visit the house
did not have applied any of the techniques described in Health Interconnection Theory.
The house was décor with neutral hues, blue elements, and some metallic and wood
furniture. The original design did not promote drastic changes in light and shadow in the
interior and was very neutral. All the participants described the space as beautiful and
comfortable however even when they did not look uncomfortable, they did not seem
deeply relaxed at the space. All of them stayed at the living room of the house, which
curiously was the only space of the house designed inspired in an element and oriented to
the correct geographical position. It was also the place with most vegetation and natural
ventilation.
The following day the same participants attended to the same space for the second
occasion, where the principles of HIT were applied in the design of the house.

55
Figure 28: Design of interior environment without the application of HIT.
Authors own image, (2017) [graphic representation]Design of interior environment without the application
of HIT

56
Principles of HIT
• Embrace nature by integrating natural elements in the environment
• Use of vegetation
• Use of natural light
• Natural ventilation
• Consider climate and location
• Consider the effect surroundings provides to interior environments
• Orient the building according to the natural elements present in each geographical
position (Feng Shui) (Figure 29)
• North- water
• Northeast - earth
• East - wood
• Southeast - wood
• South - fire
• Southwest - earth
• West - metal
• Northwest - metal
• Integrate color wisely according to the geographical position and element present
in the area (Figure 29)
• Water – blue, green, black, gray, clear
• Earth - light tones of green, yellow, cream, brown,
• Wood – brown, sepia, green, dark yellow
• Fire – red, pink, purple, yellow, orange

57
• Metal – gray, black, white, silver, copper, gold
• Reduce the use of nonrenewable resources and if possible replace infrastructure
that uses nonrenewable resources by sustainable infrastructure
• Solve design problems using natural evolution as a guide for reaching decisions
• Reduce clutter
• Suggest rather than reveal
• Recognize the importance of temporal events
• Depict vagueness and incompletion
• Balance the design
• Use elements of a space to create balanced compositions
• Use geometric elements, color and visual association
Figure 29: HIT Principles color palette based in elements and orientation
Authors own image, (2017) [graphic representation]Principles color palette based in elements and
orientation

58
The newly designed spaces caused joy in the participants. Surprised was express due to
the presence of energy flows and the possibility connecting to their inner self. All of the
five participants admitted to feel happier and more relaxed despite the different colors
applied in the different areas. The participants spent time in different areas of the house
and agreed to feel comfortable in general and to feel positive changes in their emotions.

59
Conclusions
Throughout this study, and after concluding the literature review; surveys, interviews,
focus group, and observation methods were performed in order to reach a conclusion. All
literature and recompiled data, demonstrated similar results supporting the different
topics discussed and interlocking them in a way that validates the Health Interconnection
Theory proposed. This theory showed to be able to improve the comfort and health of the
subjects that participated.
Between the economic debacle the island is going through and the current environmental
issues; anxiousness, depression and stress factors have increased making harder for
people to achieve comfort at home, or to invest in sustainable solutions that will make
them improve their wellbeing. Lack of economic stability have made the population opt
for renting properties instead of purchasing properties and have also encouraged them to
not invest in renovations or improvements in the property they live in. This have resulted
in discomfort of residents in their living environment that have been affecting their
mental as well as their physical wellbeing. Survey results have supported the literature
review, showcasing how lack of renovations or updates in the housing environment has
also resulted in the more frequently use of air conditioning systems or fans to reduce
temperatures. Lack of knowledge and lack of professional guidance, as well as lack of
funds and time for renovations, have left resident using non sustainable technologies and
non-passive approaches to solve interior temperatures in search for comfort. Even when
the majority of the population describe their living environment as a pleasant one, results
demonstrated their daily habits and daily emotions towards specific areas of their home,

60
and their home as a whole; were contradicting their first response of their home
perspective, mostly describing the experience with negative adjectives. Among those
negative descriptions were found: tiredness, depression, anxiousness, sadness, and lack of
inspiration. Further on, after studying the sustainable practices of the housing
environment, was concluded that non sustainable practices are increasing VOC
emissions, increasing carbon dioxide, lowering oxygen levels, increasing air pollutants
that leads to respiratory problems, allergies, skin problems, among other health issues.
High amount of clutter presented in most residences also increase the areas of dust
gathering affecting physical health, increasing cleaning labor and also affecting mental
wellness of the user. When a high amount of clutter is present in an interior space the
person tends to feel overwhelmed, tired, anxious, or depressed. This is why the concept
of “Kanso” was proved to be an integral part of Health Interconnection Theory (HIT).
Additionally, it was proved that the mind is able to read clusters as figures and as wholes
and is also able to see balance or imbalance in space, achieving sense of comfort because
of geometrical associations and position of design element as described in Gestalt theory.
Furthermore, to restore mind after high concentration period, is important to present
natural vegetation as stated by Kaplan and Kaplan in Attention Restoration Theory
(ART). Vegetation, besides restoring mind as described in ART, can also reduce VOC
presence, remove formaldehyde, benzene, toluene and xylene, increase oxygen in a
space, reduce carbon dioxide, reduce temperature and purify air. All these previously
mentioned elements not only improve the environment, but also promote a better health.
Plants such as Bamboo palm, parlor palm, English ivy, peace lily, and golden photos
provide health benefits to residents. Among these benefits we could mention: reducing

61
allergies, calming and stabilizing mind and body, helping body recovery, reduce
headaches, minimize pain, reduce congestion, help improve skin health and reduce
respiratory issues. By stating the benefits plants have in human wellness, the History
based theory is reinforced, and the human is encouraged to go back to archaic epoch
explained by Sim Van der Ryn and respect nature. Nature can also mystify a space. The
integration of natural light into a space filtered by nature will bring a change in space and
time throughout different periods of the day. It could appeal to the sense of
phenomenology in which emotions of the space are read by the user and the energy can
be transmitted throughout nature in contact with a built environment. Filtering natural
light thought a window, a building skin, plants or vegetation, can bring a different sense
into the space. This is another important element of HIT, because phenomenology allows
the mind to relax in contact with nature, to restore and to shift as it would in a naturally
manner. Natural light can also provide benefits to human body, increasing the amount of
vitamin D (Mercola, 2015) a body receives and bringing energy to the user of the space
motivating them or inspiring them, therefore improving their performance. However, this
study discovered that lack of natural light into home environment is very common,
residents accepting the further need of artificial light to compensate the lack of natural
light and the depression that artificial light sometimes makes them feel.
Not only the use of natural light can improve the wellness of the user, but also the use of
natural ventilation, which in combination with plants can also reduce temperatures and
promote air purification. By using natural ventilation, the use of air conditioning systems
would be less necessary, not only reducing electric bills, but also reducing some factors
that contribute to Heat Island Effect. This would immediately result in health

62
improvement as well as a budget relief. Since people tend to identify themselves with
nature, is important to integrate unpredictable factors that can relate to human evolution
and somehow explain human mind and thinking process. These elements should be able
to adapt to change over time, as a human body and mind would naturally do. These
elements could be furnishing or decoration made out of copper, or any metal able to show
changes in time, or either salvaged or reclaimed wood, able to showcase their natural
flaws. These changes in material often relates to mental and personal stability, making
people more comfortable with change and helping human mind relate to physical
environment as established in Wabi Sabi. Even when this theory can include many other
factors this was the only one pertinent to this study, and which was proved to certainly
have an effect in people’s reaction.
In addition to nature, and referring back to the elements and emotional balance and
connection expressed by phenomenology, results demonstrated that orienting a space to
elements as stated in Feng Shui theory, provide balance in a space and the flow of energy
felt by the user. Orienting elements to geographical position, also set bases to create the
color palette inspired in each element. Elements were placed as follow: water to the
north, metal to northwest and west, earth to northeast and southwest, wood to east and
southeast and fire to south. The location of each element not only is placed due to the
Feng shui theory and because of the logical nondestructive pattern each of them provide
to the other in the order they are placed, but also because the sun rises through east,
where wood element is placed. Naturally wood needs of sun to grow strong and develop
itself. The south position is where the sun is stronger during the day, where is also placed
the fire element in Feng Shui theory.

63
Because of the different elements and orientations, the color pallet is oriented to each
element, balancing vibrant hues with pastel colors in order to create a balance in both
cold and warm areas; achieving to reduce overwhelming situations. Integrating
psychology of color theory into HIT guarantee the colors used in every area of a house
despite of being warm or cold would provide mental wellness to the resident.
The information gathered could open a new research investigation of the possibility to
validate HIT efficiency in other cultures. This could help improve the body of knowledge
of interior designers, calling for not only interior designers to investigate and put in
practice the theory but also to raise awareness in design psychologist who may be
interested in further researching about this new theory of human centered design.

64
Limitations
Health Interconnection Theory includes many theories and factors that needs to be further
discussed. Even when results validated the theory, a larger sample of population needs to
be surveyed, interviewed and observed in spaces where HIT is applied. Is because of
these that time is considered to be the biggest limitation to this project, along to the lack
of participants and funds to design spaces where residents could provide detailed results
with documentation of progress.
Even when 20 participants were able to answer the survey, and there were also several
interviews performed in order to gather data, a larger sample is required in order to be
able to proof the theory as valid in different economic groups, different housing
environments and different cultural backgrounds.
Being in contact with design psychologist or environmental psychologist would have also
being of great help when discussing many topics, and would have been a great asset for
the qualitative data.

65
Future Research
This study sets the basic to continue researching about possibilities to create a human
centered theory of interior design that help reduce the environmental debacle we are
experiencing worldwide, reduce mental issues proved to be also globally common and
promote physical health. HIT set bases to open discussion among professionals of
different fields that could contribute to this study and help improve human wellness and
expand body of knowledge.

66
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