When I decided to take a mini sabbatical from my HR career and train in Interior Design I had no idea that so much of what I already knew would be helpful in this new career.

My first degree is in psychology so I already had knowledge of some subjects like ergonomics (man-machine interface). Even so I underestimated how much the physical environment affects us. It does so in so many ways. Architectural and interior design at home and work affect our mood, creativity, productivity, mental and physical health. But, often we are not aware of it.

There is no one ‘perfect’ environment that suits us all. But, I am pleased to tell you that there is a perfect environment for YOU. We’ve all worked in places that are too hot/cold, noisy/boring etc. Individual preferences play a large part in whether we feel comfortable in a space. There are, of course, some terrible environments that we would all hate. Think of a windowless, cold, cramped cell with nowhere to sit. Interested? Of course not! So, that’s a no-no. However, what makes up a pleasant environment? There are many options. And, what we like, has a lot to do with what we ARE like.

Individuals can be described and defined in many ways, personality, motivation, drivers, archetypes, class, education, family background, intellect, mood, taste etc. When I work with clients I work with them to uncover as much as I can about them in order to get to the heart of their interior design preferences and taste.

Let’s start with personality. In my experience people love to have their personality analysed and validated. One element that is well known about is the introvert/extrovert trait. Eminent psychologist Carl Jung first used these terms to describe people in 1920s. What is the difference between and introvert and an extrovert? It is helpful to think about where people gain their energy; is it when they spend time alone or out socialising? Essentially an introvert is someone whose motives and actions are directed inwards and an extrovert is the opposite. Extroverts gain their energy from socialising and being in physical stimulating environments. What counts as stimulating? Noise, Visual objects, strong scents and food, atmosphere (emotional). Introverts on the other hand need some time alone to ‘recharge’ and prefer less stimulating spaces. It is helpful to think as this definition as a continuum rather than either/or.

Bright colours are loved by some, but not by all.

So, what does this mean for designing interiors for individuals?

If we all fit into neat little boxes it would be easy! Introverts would like peaceful, less stimulating environments, neutral colours, few objects, symmetry and houses and work places with lots of separated space ie places to retreat to. Conversely, extroverts would like loud, open plan, colourful space with loads of clutter and patterns and textures.

In my experience it’s not that simple. One client, I worked with last year, likes to spend the majority of her time alone and would describe herself as an introvert. She does prefer pastels to bold colours and quiet, but she also loves a visually busy space with clutter and beautiful objects, books, papers, patterned furnishings, and flowers.

Introverts recharge their energy by spending time alone

I have another client who would describe herself as very extroverted and goes out a lot. However, she sees her home as a sanctuary and doesn’t socialise much there, so the design that I develop this year will be about creating a personal space for her creativity; a space tuned into thinking and reflection.

So, what can we take from this? Personality is a key element that I take into account when I am designing a space for someone. I work to understand exactly how much stimulus they want in their space through each of 5 senses, also how much personal space/open plan and how much storage and display space. I consider all of this before I even think about colour schemes, style, furniture, and furnishings.

Do you know your personality and preferences? Are you happy with your home space and work space? The introvert/extrovert scale is just one of many elements I consider in my PSPQ (Personal Style Psyche Quiz) process.

Having your own PSPQ done is eye opening and enjoyable

Why not get your own PSPQ? For clients based in and around Bristol I can write your own PSPQ report. To do this I spend a couple of hours with you analysing your personality, family background, sensory blueprint and a few other factors and then write up an in-depth report on your personal style preferences. Included with this report is a bespoke digital style mood board just for you.

Once you know your own design style preferences you will be able to pull room schemes together much more confidently and cost effectively.

Michelle x

What’s personality got to do with it?