Across the globe, stress and anxiety are on the rise as individuals try to keep up with the demands of the fast-paced world we live in. As the importance of mental health continues to come to the forefront of public consciousness, many people are now looking for methods to improve their wellbeing and mindfulness.
While there are many practices and methods out there, one area that is often overlooked is the influence the environment can have on our mental state. Bluespace design is a concept that explores the benefits that harnessing the power of a natural aquatic environment can bring to our mental and physical wellbeing.
What exactly is bluespace design, though, and how can you incorporate this thinking into your home? We thought we would take a closer look at those questions and some of the core design principles that make up the concept.
From the dawn of man, humans have always looked to live near oceans, rivers, and lakes. Not only are these bodies of water essential for life, but they also have a profound impact on human psychology. Throughout history, civilizations across the globe have valued water for its cleansing, rejuvenating, and calming properties, and bluespace design is a contemporary architectural approach that aims to bring those benefits to the modern world.
Countless studies have found that regular exposure to water can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while also helping to promote relaxation and creativity. The concept of bluespace design tends to focus on municipal parks and the water features within them. Research has found that parks that contained ponds, fountains, or streams were associated with higher levels of psychological restoration and wellbeing compared to those without. One particular study found that visitors to urban parks with water features reported greater feelings of relaxation and were considerably happier.
Although the vast majority of studies into bluespace design focuses on its results within a public park, it is possible to bring those benefits into your home. However, there are a number of challenges that can arise.
One of the biggest is the limited space in backyards compared to large outdoor areas. While lakes and rivers are proven to help mental wellbeing, it’s not possible to replicate these bodies of water in your garden. Instead, homeowners should look toward plunge pools, ponds, and water features to create a sense of being around water. Alongside a lack of space, there are often a number of other logistical constraints that homeowners will need to consider, including budget, maintenance requirements, and local regulations.
Incorporating biophilic design principles into your backyard can help to enhance the therapeutic benefits of bluespace design. This concept encourages homeowners to integrate more natural elements, patterns, and processes in the space, focusing heavily on the use of natural materials such as wood and stone. Incorporating these elements into residential spaces helps foster a deeper sense of connection with nature, promoting greater mental and emotional wellbeing.
Designing residential bluespace requires careful planning to ensure that the space meets the fundamental principles of the concept: creating a tranquil and rejuvenating environment. One of the primary values of bluespace is the need for it to integrate seamlessly with the rest of the surrounding landscape and architecture. Whether it’s a plunge pool, pond, or water feature, it should complement the overall aesthetics of the home and create a sense of harmony and tranquillity.
The next factor to consider is the size of the water feature you are installing. While you might think that trying to replicate a lake means going as large as possible, this can actually have a negative, overpowering effect. Instead, make sure that your fountain, pond, or plunge pool is the appropriate size for your backyard, complementing rather than dominating the space.
Next, you should consider how accessible and usable the feature is. How will you and your loved ones interact with it? For example, if opting for a plunge pool you should ensure that it has easy access, allowing you to relax and socialize with ease.
Finally, the fourth and arguably most important principle of residential bluespace is safety. This is particularly important if children and pets will be present, so incorporating safety features such as pool fences, non-slip surfaces, and adequate lighting will reduce the risk of accidents.
To ensure you meet these four principles, effective research and planning are vital. If you are unsure how to create a bluespace garden, consulting with landscape designers, architects, and professional pool installers like our team at Vessel Pools will help you overcome any potential challenges and ensure a successful outcome.
If you are looking to maximize the potential of your bluespace, creating a multisensory experience can further enhance mindfulness and lead to more profound relaxation:
The sound of water can be very therapeutic, with fountains, waterfalls, or bubbling streams helping to create a calming and tranquil environment.
Fragrant flowers, lush greenery, and unique textures underfoot can further complement the soothing effects of water and create a vibrant and warm aesthetic.
Your bluespace garden should not just be limited to the daytime. Installing soft and warm ambient lighting will allow you to relax and enjoy the space throughout the evening and over the darker winter months.
Alongside the sound of water, you can enhance the auditory experience by incorporating outdoor speakers to play calming sounds like ocean waves, birdsong, and gentle rainfall.
Rather than just sitting in your new bluespace garden, you could engage in mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to help you further connect with nature.
Finally, you could also incorporate water therapy into your garden, helping you to discover the many therapeutic benefits it offers. Adding hydrotherapy features such as jets and whirlpools in your pool or hot tub will help soothe tired muscles, alleviate tension, and help you unwind, further improving your mental and physical wellbeing.
The concept of bluespace design might not be as widely recognized as it should be just yet, but an increasing number of homeowners are starting to realize the benefits of incorporating the principles when redesigning their outdoor areas. Although the majority of studies are based on municipal parks, careful planning and research can help you to overcome any challenges and create a relaxing and tranquil space to escape the hustle and bustle of life.
Here at Vessel Pools, we’re committed to delivering beautiful and versatile pools that can transform your home. Created from sustainable precast concrete, we have worked hard to ensure our versatile plunge pools have a minimal impact on the environment, supporting you in establishing a true bluespace at home.
Ready to find out more? Contact our team today to find out more about how we can help you.
