The Benefit of Changing Environments: Rethinking Permanence in Design

Change is an essential component of human experience. While familiarity in our surroundings offers security, it can also lead to stagnation, reduced focus, and even diminished well-being. Throughout history, architecture and design have emphasized permanence- think of the grandeur of Roman and Greek structures, built to withstand centuries. Yet, as our world accelerates in pace and technological advancements redefine how we live and work, it is worth questioning whether static environments still serve us well.

The Psychological Impact of Environment on Well-Being

Research in environmental psychology suggests that our surroundings directly affect cognitive function, creativity, and mood. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology (2020) found that exposure to new environments stimulates neural plasticity, encouraging fresh thinking and problem-solving. This is why travel is often associated with increased creativity- novelty triggers cognitive flexibility, allowing the brain to form new connections.

Similarly, stagnant spaces can have the opposite effect. A 2017 study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology indicated that unchanging work environments contribute to mental fatigue and reduced productivity. This is why even simple changes- such as rearranging furniture or altering decor- can provide a cognitive reset, improving focus and well-being.

Rethinking Architectural Permanence

The notion of permanence in architecture, long held as an ideal, may no longer align with contemporary human needs. Historically, architecture has been a reflection of its time- Baroque grandeur gave way to the minimalism of Modernism, and now, adaptive design is gaining traction. Should we embrace more flexible, transient spaces that can evolve with our daily lives?

Japanese architect Kengo Kuma champions the idea of impermanence, integrating natural materials that change over time. Similarly, the trend of modular architecture, seen in projects like BIG’s LEGO House in Denmark or Carlo Ratti’s reconfigurable office spaces, suggests a shift toward adaptable, user-driven design.

The Post-Pandemic Work Landscape: A Catalyst for Change

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated just how quickly our relationship with workspaces could shift. Remote work became the norm, and many companies have since reevaluated the necessity of physical offices. According to a 2022 report by McKinsey & Company, nearly 58% of U.S. employees now have the option to work from home at least one day a week. This shift raises important questions: Should offices remain rigid, or should they evolve into dynamic co-working hubs that prioritize adaptability and human needs?

Institutional Spaces: A Constant State of Transformation

We see evidence of spatial transformation in institutional environments all the time. Post offices, once grand public halls, have shrunk into small, automated kiosks as digital communication and package drop-offs replace traditional mail services. In-person banking is rapidly declining, especially in developed cities like London, where physical bank branches are becoming nearly obsolete as online banking takes over. Meanwhile, hospitals are expanding at an unprecedented rate, adding new departments and specialized units to accommodate the latest medical advancements.

What spaces are next to evolve- or disappear entirely? Do we anticipate a world where libraries become obsolete due to digital access to knowledge? Will shopping malls continue their decline, replaced by experience-based retail or mixed-use developments? Could traditional schools transform into hybrid education centers, blending online and in-person learning?

As we evaluate these shifts, a crucial question emerges: Will all spaces eventually become flexible, or will certain environments remain unchanged? Some spaces, like places of worship, heritage sites, and cemeteries, have resisted radical change, largely due to their cultural and emotional significance. Will these remain steadfast while other spaces constantly shift? Or will even these institutions eventually adapt to societal evolution?

Designing for Change: Practical Applications

1. Flexible Workspaces: Instead of static office layouts, companies can invest in adaptable spaces with movable walls, modular furniture, and shared environments that foster collaboration.

2. Residential Fluidity: Homes should be designed to accommodate changing needs, such as adjustable lighting, interchangeable decor, or convertible rooms that shift functions.

3. Public Spaces that Evolve: Parks, libraries, and cafes could implement rotating art, seasonal seating arrangements, or interactive design elements that respond to user engagement.

Encouraging Change in Everyday Life

For those who cannot frequently travel, small environmental shifts can still provide cognitive benefits. Research published in Nature Neuroscience (2019) found that minor modifications in surroundings- such as introducing new scents, colors, or spatial arrangements- can improve memory retention and emotional resilience.

Simple ways to introduce change into daily life include:

• Rearranging furniture or artwork

• Altering lighting conditions throughout the day

• Incorporating seasonal decor or plants

• Using multipurpose spaces to encourage variety in routine

A New Wave of Architectural Thinking

Historically, art and architecture have been the forefront of cultural shifts- think of how the Enlightenment era sparked transformations in urban planning. Today, we are at a similar crossroads. As our world grows increasingly digitized and fluid, the spaces we inhabit must reflect that change. Architecture should not just be about permanence; it should be about adaptability, responsiveness, and human-centric design.

The question remains: Should we let our surroundings remain static, or should we design for movement, evolution, and transformation? The future of architecture and design may not be in building for eternity, but in crafting spaces that grow and change with us- just as our minds and societies do.