Where did you get the label "Design Psychology?"

In the eighties I wrote the first draft of Joy to the Home: Residential Design Psychology after I discovered how our feelings were affected by our interior design choices. I researched interior design elements backwards. Instead of studying interior design again, I studied each principle of design from the psychological impact. At first I thought my brand of interior design was the "science of design," but since our discoveries are all based on human emotional response, "psychology" fits better.

Which design elements did you research?

I researched the design details of lighting, color, patterns, textures, furnishings, and styles, along with design principles such as balance, proportion, harmony, scale, focus, and rhythm. I found that lighting impacts our emotions more than color. One surprising discovery was that people like to feel important in a space and that many homes with soaring spaces make them feel insignificant.

What about "environmental design?"

Because we let Mother Nature guide our designs, we love the earth and respect environmental concerns. Our sustainable living expert, Randall Smith helps with solar power planning and other earth-friendly, sometimes "off-the-grid," energy-saving designs.

What's the difference between Feng Shui and Design Psychology?

Feng Shui, based on traditions and experience, contributes to Design Psychology. Some of our findings uncovered the underlying psychological reasons why Feng Shui practitioners suggest placing accessories in particular spaces. For instance,  we copy Feng Shui and use mirrors above kitchen stoves so that the cook sees what's behind him. However, unlike Feng Shui followers, we do not believe that mirrors cause unease in bedrooms. For those homemakers who love Feng Shui, they can add Design Psychology to their home decorating mix for an interesting, harmonious home that supports all their desired emotions.

What is the difference between Design Psychology and "environmental autobiography?"

Other interior designers and psychologists promote "environmental autobiography," and though they label this field "Design Psychology," the ideas differ from my Design Philosophy. I believe in looking forward and creating spaces using proven techniques based on the underlying psychological impact of design elements to bolster happiness.

How do you use your ideas for investing in real estate?

Investors fixing up houses to resell, or "flipping houses," benefit from understanding their potential buyer and remodeling using materials to attract that type of home buyer. Furthermore, they make more profits with home staging that speaks to the buyers emotions.

Copyright © 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher

Real Estate Investor Information  Articles and tips for finding bargains, financing fixers, and flipping houses.

Jeanette Fisher’s Book Sites:

Joy to the Home

Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars

Sell Your Home for Top Dollar - FAST!

Home Staging for Top-Dollar Sales