INVESTIGATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IMMERSIVE ROOM DESIGN AND CLIENT’S POSITIVE AFFECT AND RELATIONAL EMPATHY: A PILOT STUDY

Abstract

This pilot study investigates how room design, specifically immersive, nature-themed environments versus standard clinical settings, affects clients’ emotional openness and perceptions of relational empathy. Using a mixed-methods approach, 40 participants were randomly assigned to one of two room types and completed pre- and post-session measures, including a modified Session Rating Scale, the CARE Measure, and the Type of Positive Affect. Results aimed to assess whether room design influences therapeutic connection components such as comfort, empathy, and emotional affect. Qualitative thematic analysis further explored participants’ subjective experiences of space and safety. Findings are expected to offer preliminary insight into how physical environments shape therapeutic engagement and may inform future clinical design practices. Ethical protocols included informed consent, minimal deception, and thorough debriefing.