Can virtual environments help us heal anxiety and create a sense of safety amidst uncertainty? In this episode of Design Deep Dive, design psychologist Dr. Suzan Ahmed dives in with Mishleen Marcos, Palestinian interior designer and design instructor, to discuss her innovative research and the power of biophilic design in virtual reality environments to support mental health.

Mishleen Marcos is an interior designer and design instructor who recently completed her master’s degree in Art Therapy at Dar Al-Kalima University. Her work explores the intersection of interior design, virtual reality, music, and emotional wellbeing, with a focus on creating multisensory environments that support healing, presence, and connection.

Mishleen shares her journey from interior design to art therapy, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that foster healing and connection. We explore biophilic design, the role of music in therapeutic environments, and the potential of virtual reality to create immersive experiences that reduce anxiety and facilitate a state of flow. We also discuss the future of design psychology, advocating for a more human-centered approach that prioritizes personal connection and emotional sustainability.

In this episode:

• The role of virtual reality and music in creating therapeutic interventions

• Emotional (and not just environmental) sustainability as an important component in design

• AI and other technology as tools of support

• The legacy of design as a reflection of the experiences and feelings it creates for others

Connect with Mishleen:

mishleenmorcus@gmail.com

Therapeutic Music by Dr. Nawra Kurzom:

Music for Concentration

The Magic of the Night

Sunrise

Connect with Dr. Za:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/designwithdr.za/⁠⁠⁠

⁠Book a Design Psychology Consult Call⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Design and Healing

04:25 The Journey into Biophilic Design and VR

08:40 Research Findings and Impact on Students

12:32 The Role of Music in Healing Spaces

16:48 Creating Flow States in Design

21:11 The Intersection of AI, Technology, and Human Connection

26:12 AI in Mental Health Support

29:12 The Emotional Connection to Home

31:57 The Future of Design Psychology

37:06 Living in the Moment and Legacy