Image credits: Nick Bookelaar with permission of Studio Kontou
Contemplation Spaces
Conceived and curated by Studio Kontou for Dutch Design Week 2017, Contemplation Spaces explored a simple but compelling question: can carefully designed sensory environments measurably influence how people feel? And specifically: induce a calm state of mind through a multisensorial experience.
Through a carefully considered composition of art, design, sound, scent, light and tactile materials, the installation spanned across multiple spaces and invited visitors to slow down and experience space differently. Rather than treating the environment as a backdrop, the project positioned it as an active participant in shaping human experience.
Image credits: Nick Bookelaar with permission of Studio Kontou
My contribution focused on understanding that experience. I developed the research methodology, designed the visitor questionnaires and analysed how participants experienced the installation before and after moving through the different spaces. Rather than evaluating the exhibition itself, the research explored how sensory environments influenced perception, attention and emotional state.
Video Credits: Ruud Scheerens with permission of Studio Kontou
Looking back, this project marked one of the earliest moments where my interests in psychology, design and the built environment came together. Long before workplace wellbeing became part of mainstream design conversations, Contemplation Spaces demonstrated that the impact of an environment extends beyond aesthetics alone. It suggested that thoughtful design could be experienced, reflected upon and, to some extent, measured.
Image credits: Nick Bookelaar with permission of Studio Kontou
That question has stayed with me ever since and continues to run through much of my work today: how can intentionally designed environments support the way people feel, focus and connect?