Meaning: Florence Nightingale, known as the founder of modern nursing, made significant contributions not only to the field of healthcare but also to the understanding of the impact of the environment on human well-being. The quote "She said the object and color in the materials around us actually have a physical effect on us, on how we feel" reflects her insight into the concept of environmental psychology, a field that explores the relationship between the physical environment and human behavior and well-being.

During her time as a nurse during the 19th century, Nightingale observed the effects of the physical environment on patients' health and recovery. She believed that the design and aesthetics of the hospital environment could significantly influence patients' well-being and healing process. This belief was revolutionary at a time when the importance of the physical environment in healthcare settings was often overlooked.

Nightingale's understanding of the impact of objects and colors on human emotions and well-being aligns with contemporary research in environmental psychology. This field of study has demonstrated that the physical environment, including elements such as lighting, color, and spatial layout, can affect individuals' moods, stress levels, and overall health.

The quote also suggests Nightingale's recognition of the role of sensory stimuli in shaping human experiences. Objects and colors in the environment serve as visual stimuli that can evoke emotional and physiological responses in individuals. For example, certain colors have been found to have calming or stimulating effects, and the presence of aesthetically pleasing objects can contribute to a sense of comfort and security.

In the context of healthcare environments, Nightingale's insights have had a lasting impact on the design and planning of hospitals and other medical facilities. Her emphasis on creating healing environments that promote well-being and recovery has influenced modern healthcare architecture and interior design practices. Today, healthcare designers and architects consider elements such as natural light, soothing color palettes, and access to nature as essential components of patient-centered care environments.

Beyond healthcare settings, Nightingale's words also resonate in the broader context of interior design, urban planning, and architecture. The idea that the physical environment can have a tangible impact on human emotions and well-being has implications for the design of homes, schools, workplaces, and public spaces. The use of color theory, ergonomic principles, and biophilic design – which incorporates natural elements into the built environment – all reflect an understanding of how the physical surroundings can influence human experiences.

In conclusion, Florence Nightingale's quote captures her profound understanding of the influence of the physical environment on human emotions and well-being. Her pioneering insights continue to resonate in the fields of environmental psychology, healthcare design, and beyond, shaping the way we approach the creation of environments that support and enhance human health and happiness.

Overall, Florence Nightingale's quote serves as a reminder of the profound impact that the objects and colors in our surroundings can have on our well-being, and it continues to inspire thoughtful consideration of the ways in which we design and experience the spaces around us.