Application of Positive Design Principles Towards Improvement of Human Mental Health

Abstract

In this master thesis, a research process for obtaining a creative solution which will contribute to solving problems created by the "urban jungle" we live in, and will help for the general improvement of people's mental health is presented. This goal is achieved by a detailed interdisciplinary research and application of modern methods and principles in the field of industrial design. The research allowed a better view of the problem-lack of adequate spaces in the city for productive time spending and increasing positive moods-that needs to be solved, and better defining of the main needs and desires of the target group from which the concepts and ideas emerged. Generally, this research, besides the theoretical analysis of the subject positive design, contains ethnographic research methods like observation of the target group, collecting photo materials, analysis of different situations, informative polls, analysis and systematization of data. In addition, the research is complemented in the field of urban design from aspect of analysis of the urban design principles, design for good mental health, existing ideas of urban solutions around the world and in Macedonia, and also, application of modular systems, ergonomics and inspiration from nature for eco design in urbanism.

As a result of all the research done in this master thesis, an innovative, urban pavilion was designed. Pavilion which would achieve the goal-stress reduction and alleviating the everyday life of residents of modern cities. Also, the need for increasing awareness about the significance of positive design in the modern lifestyle was promoted, since design is the main element in all our surroundings that allows possibilities for deep influence in the way we think and feel which means that it can be used as a tool to improve the general wellbeing and society advancement.