Why Some Chairs In The House Never Get Sat In and How Utahns Can Solve It

If you have worked in a bull pen set up in an office where the employees sit with their back to a main walkway, you know how uncomfortable it feels. This also may explain why there are parts of your house you don't like to sit in.

The Psychology Behind Why Some Places Feel Uncomfortable

In psychology there is something called prospect-refuge theory. The prospect part means you like to have a clear view of what is in front of you where someone could approach. In a room you want to be able to see the doorway and other entryways.

We feel more comfortable sitting in a room where we can see the entry. hikesterson

The part about refuge means you don't want your back exposed. You want a refuge behind you that protects. Something solid or even better, a place you can go unnoticed if need be.

Modern-Day Discomfort in Open Offices

They say this goes back to our human past when we were in danger in a violent world. You would stay on the edge of the forest rather than in the meadow. This is probably true, but I think we are just as much avoiding dangers we feel today.

These open office plans make employees feel watched. Andrey Tolkachev

Dangers like someone watching what you are doing over your shoulder while you work. You also don't want to have a private conversation on your phone with no idea who has walked in and is listening to you.

Creating a Relaxing Space: Tips for Your Home

Part of the reason businesses design work spaces like a bullpen is to purposefully make employees feel uncomfortable. They want them to feel watched so they will use their time better or they may want them out of the office making sales calls.

Why does this matter? Because you may not enjoy parts of your house for this reason. If you have a home office where the desk faces the wall, it may feel uncomfortable. I have a big soft chair I never sit in because the back of it is to the entryway and the front door.

Read More: The Role of House Centipedes in Southern Utah Homes

I don't change it because it is the only place it fits well, but it also means I rarely sit there. I want to feel relaxed at home and that seat makes me feel uneasy. Take a look at the layout in your home and see if this is why some parts feel uncomfortable.