01 / CHill out
creative guidelines
creating stress-relieving objects, environments, and experiences starts with making design choices that calm the mind and soothe the senses
1. seduce the senses
Create soothing experiences that gently draw people in by creating a sense of calm and ease.
Emphasize textures, touching, and the physical properties of materials to create calming physical sensations.
2. slow it down
Create a sense of escape. Provide people with an opportunity to press pause on their frantic life to relax and unwind.
Leverage the meditative qualities of rhythm and repetition; avoid the stimulating rush of constantly new/changing stimuli.
3. get back to nature
Use natural forms and textures to spark creative, intuitive, and relaxing energy.
Introduce organic elements into spaces and objects as a way to bring life in.
4. go deep
Don’t just provide information—help your audience understand why and how we got here, and provide space to reflect, rather than simply react. The goal is to provide context, not just content.
Consider—and communicate—the meaning behind your creative choices. Involve people in a meaningful dialog that goes beyond the surface of what they’re experiencing.