How Space Supports Grief Processing (part 4 of 6)
Grief manifests differently for each of us, and the environments in which we process loss play a crucial role in our ability to heal. Designing spaces with intentionality requires understanding that colors, textures, and spatial arrangement all contribute to a sense of comfort and peace. Drawing from both the philosophy of space and the principles of color theory, the Eternal Tides memorial spaces are crafted to support the emotional needs of those saying “goodbye” to beloved companion animals.
According to color psychology, different hues evoke different emotional responses. Soft greens, blues, and yellows, for example, have been shown to create a calming effect, reduce stress, and promote emotional healing (Elliot & Maier, 2014). While different hues of colors create different feelings from different audiences, often influenced by context and culture, one can often come to agreement with others about shared interpretations of colors such as:
Green, often associated with renewal and balance, fosters a connection to nature and life.
Blue instills tranquility and reflection.
Yellow comforts us with warmth and gentle reassurance.
With color in mind, subtle design choices can transform a place of loss into a space of remembrance and healing.
Layout and design of a space also maintain a meaningful influence on the grief experience. Lefebvre’s (1991) concept of “lived space” emphasizes that physical environments are not just passive backdrops but actively shape human experience and emotion. A well-designed space, like Eternal Tides’ Memorial Room, invites quiet reflection, offering soft lighting, natural elements, and intentional seating arrangements that encourage contemplation and comfort.
The power of space in grief processing is significant. A thoughtfully designed environment can ease emotional burdens, allowing individuals to move through their grief with support and solace. At Eternal Tides, we recognize that saying goodbye is never easy, but by creating spaces that honor the depth of the human-animal bond, we aim to provide peace in the most difficult of moments.
References
Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2014). Color psychology: Effects of perceiving color on psychological functioning in humans. Annual Review of Psychology, 65, 95-120. https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev-psych-010213-115035
Lefebvre, H. (1991). The production of space. Blackwell.
Mehrabian, A. (1976). Public places and private spaces: The psychology of work, play, and living environments. Basic Books.
