LITERATURE REVIEW

the rise of functionality in the last decades, space became a mere reflection of the program it holds. People were stacked in boxes to produce and feed into a consumeroriented society. This idea of just cramming individuals in any place started as the industrial revolution brought flux of people into non-equipped cities. The regular house plan was divided to accommodate as many newcomers as it could retain. Homes and jobs were oriented towards fast-paced production. Usage of space and the psychological understanding behind it came later on in the future. Space is a crucial element of interior design. With a considerable portion of our lives spent indoors, the spaces we choose to occupy have a massive influence on our moods, feelings, behavior, and physical wellbeing. Space is a crucial element of interior design. With a considerable portion of our lives spent indoors, the spaces we choose to occupy have a massive influence on our moods, feelings, behavior, and physical wellbeing.

Figure 1.31. How do we tell which of these underlying, sometimes subtle factors of interior design affect our subconscious?

The psychology of space, or environmental psychology, refers to the interaction between people and the space they inhabit. How the human brain and cognition are affected by varying elements in that space. Senses are addressed and affected by interior design features such as lighting, configuration, natural and non-natural materials, colors, acoustics, texture, furniture layout, even living elements. These factors can impact how people feel. We can sense whether a space is warm, safe, and comfortable and drives social interactions or cold, hard and uninviting that zaps energy if you stay in it for a long time. In recent years, this link between interior design and psychology has been getting a lot of attention and recognition for its importance. Its equal parts functionality and psychology. Consequently, architecture and design are steering towards this peoplecentric direction and coming up with creative methods to make a space work for the social and psychological needs of its occupants. One important element that must always be kept in mind; is to follow the principles of design –balance, symmetry, proportion, and harmony. These four factors play into each component (each design element) and the sum of its parts (the whole space) which in turn impacts its occupants in various ways. Now, there are five aspects to remember to create an environment and space that is aligned with your being and simultaneously, reduces stress and anxiety from your life. (Psychology of Space, 2020)

2.12.1. Create the perception of space

There are several techniques to achieve this perception of space through architecture and design. Collectively, these are called ‘visual tricks’ that can range from several things including furniture, wall decor, color, lighting, and organization. A clean, uncluttered space does the trick. Next, another element that creates the illusion of space is lighting. Spaces that welcome a generous amount of natural light through high ceilings, large windows, skylights, glass doors, or expansive wall mirrors will naturally give a sense of a more expansive area. Light-colored furniture and interiors also achieve this effect. Creating the perception of space leads to an open mind and invites positive energy.

1.32. Illustrator of Underground Cave

2.12.2. Welcome a lot of light

Lighting also sets the mood and is an integral part of the psychology of space. Entering a room filled with natural light effectively lifts mood, energy and introduces a happy feeling. Lighting goes beyond artificial light indoors. Getting a healthy dose of sunlight is a mood lifter – boosts positive thoughts, creativity, productivity, better sleep, and generally, several other benefits. Sunlight also has many proven mental health benefits such as alleviating depression and anxiety. You might also feel a noticeable change in mood when it’s a sunny day compared to overcast skies and rain. Every room should have its lighting specifications. After all, different needs are addressed in varying spaces

– like homes vs. offices vs. restaurants, etc. Here are some examples of how different lightings work on the human mind: Bright light heightens emotions (could be both positive and negative emotions). Exposure to natural light increases serotonin levels in the brain and boosts mood and happiness levels. Longer and more exposure to natural light relieves symptoms of depression and anxiety leading to a longer-term joyful state. For instance, dim light can set a romantic or calming ambiance – some restaurants dim the lights because this trick affects a person’s comfort level and lowers inhibitions about eating larger amounts of food. While offices may want more natural light to enliven their spaces and boost productivity, motivation, and energy amongst their employees.

(Psychology of Space, 2021)

2.13. Limitations:

With its unique feature of spatiality, underground architecture can be deeply explored in various terms to introduce a different dwelling system in today’s era of land scarcity and climate change. But along with these added advantages, certain limitations will surely challenge the existing advantages of underground Architecture. The major limitation can be the lack of adaptability and acceptance for the subterranean dwelling system as there is a direct relation with the psychological reactions of a feeling of claustrophobia, fear of collapse, etc. When it comes to the living system, the provision of necessities becomes a major concern. So, the foremost solution should be portrayed for the supply of water, fresh air, and electricity. This leads us to the thought of openings and ventilation, wherein most of the case studies the parameter of ventilation is merely solved by the AC Ducts which does not solve the problem of Openings to be provided to sustain an entire living system beneath the ground. Accessibility is one of the major concerns when it comes to connecting or reaching these systems with the neighborhoods. This function must relate to and fulfill the visual as well as the physical parameter. As we dig underground, there is a major possibility of degradation of the environment, unfavorable geology, water table problems, Confined work Conditions, Cost certainty, etc.

2.14. Pros and Cons of Subterranean Architecture

With the advancements in subterranean building techniques and a revitalized focus on eco-friendly housing systems, the possibility of living partially underground is being considered into the public consciousness. Though linked by a partially or entirely covered construction, there are countless types of subterranean architecture, from