Abstract
The increasing urbanization of Lagos and the rapid proliferation of large commercial edifices have raised concerns over the mental, emotional, and environmental well-being of those who frequent public business areas. Contemporary shopping malls serve not just as retail venues but also as important hubs for social interaction, cultural engagement, and entertainment. They need architectural techniques that foster comfort, equilibrium, and contentment within their environment. Despite the evolution of this function, several new constructions in Lagos continue to prioritize economic and aesthetic considerations, often overlooking the more profound psychological and cultural dimensions of design. This study investigates the impact of indigenous color palettes and organic architectural forms on user welfare, using Ikeja City Mall (ICM) in Lagos as a case study. The aim is to develop evidence-based and culturally sensitive design concepts that may improve psychological comfort, emotional stability, and the general quality of environments in commercial public spaces. The findings indicate that color use and spatial arrangement substantially affect user perception, emotional reactions, and overall well-being in Ikeja City Mall. Warm, neutral, and visually coherent color palettes have been shown to enhance mood, reduce fatigue, and stabilize emotions. Users correlated these color settings with sensations of tranquility, spatial clarity, and satisfaction within the surroundings. Organic spatial configurations, such as sinuous circulation pathways, expansive atriums, and seamless spatial transitions, facilitated navigation, reduced cognitive strain, and imparted a feeling of openness and continuity of movement. These architectural elements facilitated spatial comprehension, enhanced comfort, and encouraged engagement. The research indicated that the overall wellbeing experience was influenced by the restricted use of indigenous color narratives, little biophilic features, and periods of significant spatial congestion. This indicates a need for enhanced cultural integration and improved spatial use.