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NEUROARCHITECTURE: HOW THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
INFLUENCES THE HUMAN BRAIN
REVIEW ARTICLE
SANTOS, Viviane Cristina Marques dos
1
SANTOS, Viviane Cristina Marques dos. Neuroarchitecture: how the built
environment influences the human brain. Revista Científica Multidisciplinar
Núcleo do Conhecimento. Year 08, Ed. 07, Vol. 03, pp. 96-113. July 2023. ISSN:
2448-0959, Access Link:
https://www.nucleodoconhecimento.com.br/architecture/neuroarchitecture, DOI:
10.32749/nucleodoconhecimento.com.br/architecture/neuroarchitecture
ABSTRACT
Applied neuroscience in architecture emerges to understand how the environment
influences the human brain and behavior. This discipline aims to improve the quality
of spaces for people, such as enhancing productivity in work environments,
increasing concentration and learning capacity in students, or even improving the
health and well-being of users. The justification for this study arises from the fact that
humans spend more than 87% of their time indoors, not only due to the need to work
and study but also because of the modern lifestyle that allows them to engage in
various activities indoors. Given that people spend a significant amount of time
indoors, neuroarchitecture seeks to design healthier environments that provide
positive experiences for users. This study aims to discuss the importance and
strategies of neuroarchitecture and present human sensory experiences in built
environments. A literature review was used as the methodology for this work. It is
concluded that neuroarchitecture is a promising approach to creating environments
that enhance productivity, well-being, health, and cognitive performance since
buildings accommodate not only the human body but also the memories, desires,
and subconscious state of the human brain. Thus, architecture becomes a key
element capable of unconsciously modifying our emotions, thoughts, decision-
making processes, physiological state, and health.
Keywords: Neuroarchitecture, Sensory Experience in Architecture, Healthy Spaces
in Built Environments.
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1. INTRODUCTION
Neuroarchitecture refers to the interdisciplinary study that links the fields of
neuroscience, psychology, and architecture with the purpose of enhancing built
spaces to generate positive effects on the physical and mental health of human
beings. This line of research is important because people spend more than 87% of
their time indoors, and perhaps these spaces are not suitable for them (FAJARDO,
2018).
Neuroscience can map the brain to understand how, when, and why it is stimulated.
In this sense, neuroarchitecture brings design strategies to stimulate creativity,
productivity, well-being, faster recoveries, collaborative effects, and more. Some of
these strategies may include the use of colors, ceiling height, natural lighting,
architectural forms, textures, the use of natural materials, and the arrangement of
furniture and objects (SOLÍS; HERRERA, 2017; PAIVA; JEDON, 2019; SHAABAN,
KAMEL, KHODEIR, 2023).
According to Kellert and Calabrese's research (2015), the use of lighter and softer
colors can provide a more tranquil and calm environment. Furthermore, the use of
natural light can improve mood and increase productivity. The arrangement of
furniture and objects can also influence social interaction and collaboration among
people in a space (DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL, 2017; CHO; KIM, 2018). These are
just some examples of design strategies that neuroarchitecture uses to achieve its
goals.
The built environment is initially perceived through emotions, an instinctive and
efficient system that judges what is good or bad, safe or dangerous, to stay alive.
The human brain can make distinctions about materials, spatial relationships,
proportions, scale, comfort, etc., instantaneously (MINISTERIO DE DISEÑO, 2020).
Paiva and Jedon (2019) state that individuals in a hot room, for example, may sweat,
feel uncomfortable, and be unable to concentrate. Another example would be
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feelings of fear, anxiety, and alertness that can be generated in dark and unfamiliar
environments. Therefore, to some extent, space always affects users, keeping the
interaction between the environment and the individual active (EBERHARD, 2009;
PAIVA; JEDON, 2019).
This interaction between the environment and the individual can occur without us
realizing it because some sensations are unconsciously captured by the brain
(EBERHARD, 2009). It can result in changes in physiological state, such as
alterations in hormone levels, heart rate, skin conductance, blood pressure, body
temperature, and muscle tension. It can also modify emotional state, behavior,
decision-making, and mental health (PAIVA, 2018; PAIVA; EDON, 2019;
KHALEGHIMOGHADDAM, et al., 2022). As Villarouco et al. (2021, p.20) state, "the
environment constantly provides stimuli - of greater or lesser intensity - that are
captured by the body as sensations for the mind to process, generating perceptions
and awareness, which can trigger a behavioral response."
In other words, the characteristics of the environment cause physiological reactions
that can enhance or reduce mental capacity to perform a specific task. Therefore, it
is necessary to create spaces that can stimulate humans to improve their
performance. With neuroarchitecture, it is possible to design environments that
generate greater productivity, well-being, and faster patient recovery in the case of
healthcare environments. Pleasant and comfortable environments for the body and
healthy and stimulating environments for the brain can be produced (EBERHARD,
2009; PAIVA; JEDON, 2019).
The Academy of Neuroscience For Architecture (ANFA) is an interdisciplinary
research organization focused on understanding how the human brain acts in a
given environment. At ANFA, research is conducted on how the built environment
affects the structure and functioning of the brain, how the brain interprets such
information, and how it reconstructs space (LEI XIA, 2020). Villarouco et al. (2021)
determine that the concept of space is a "[...] three-dimensional organization, which
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is seen and felt, therefore, experienced over time. Understanding experiences in
space is equivalent to understanding the mental operations performed in this
process..." (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021, p.151).
In this way, for neuroarchitecture, there are two essential points: first, that a space
modifies the user's mental state due to direct contact between humans and the built
environment, which can influence the final outcome of the activities being developed.
Second, that humans are capable of creating different perceptions in the same
environment due to their beliefs, cultures, genetics, memories, personal
experiences, frequency, and duration of exposure to the physical environment.
These variables experienced previously are fundamental in determining emotional
responses to the surroundings (PAIVA, 2018; PAIVA; JEDON, 2019).
In other words, "it was concluded that an individual's sense of place can also be
influenced by memories formed in previous experiences, whether in the same place
or in a similar space" (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021, p.145). Thus, using applied
neuroscience in architecture provides new possibilities for architectural design but
also presents new challenges in designing solutions for people with different desires
and memories who inhabit the same environment (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021).
In general, neuroarchitecture applies knowledge from neuroscience to architecture
to understand the effects that the environment produces on the human brain and to
enhance built spaces with the aim of promoting health, well-being, and productivity
for users (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021).
2. NEUROARCHITECTURE AS A DESIGN CONCEPT
Using neuroarchitecture as a design concept aims to create environments that
contribute to the development of people in terms of behavior and well-being. The
human brain is biologically drawn to nature; therefore, natural environments assist
in creating built environments that can enhance productivity, health, and well-being
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for people (DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL, 2017; KELLERT; CALABRESE, 2015;
SHAABAN; KAMEL; KHODEIR, 2023).
Examples such as natural ventilation and lighting, furniture arrangement, variations
in ceiling height, colors, and architectural forms (PAIVA; JEDON, 2019; SHAABAN,
KAMEL, KHODEIR, 2023). Other elements that can influence behavior and well-
being are those that activate the sensory senses, such as touch through furniture
and wall textures. Hearing can be stimulated by small domestic animals like birds;
contact with animal life should be included to create a connection with nature. Taste
and smell can be stimulated by the fruits of indoor plants. And sight, by introducing
natural elements such as aquariums, water features, and green spaces (KELLERT;
CALABRESE, 2015).
Nature in the built environment can contribute to comfort, satisfaction, pleasure, and
cognitive performance. The use of plants and vegetation in buildings should be
abundant; otherwise, it will have little impact on the human brain's perception
(KELLERT; CALABRESE, 2015). Short-term exposure to nature can reduce stress
levels, blood pressure, anxiety, and muscle tension, while long-term exposure can
boost the immune system, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and
diabetes, and improve cognitive performance (PAIVA; JEDON, 2019) and stimulate
memory (CHO; KIM, 2018).
Natural lighting in the built environment also affects memory retention. Research
shows that in classrooms with large openings for natural light, higher levels of
attention and better learning were found (EBERHARD, 2009). Furthermore, studies
by Boubekri et al. (2014) demonstrate that exposure to natural lighting can improve
sleep quality and reduce physical and mental problems.
Sunlight can be attributed to features such as large windows, skylights, outdoor
areas, skylights, views to the outside, operable windows, balconies, decks, terraces,
gardens, glass walls, and clerestories, among others (KELLERT, 2012; HUIBERTS,
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2015; PAIVA, 2021;). Kellert and Calabrese (2015) state that changes in light during
the day can be achieved through the contrast between light and shadow, and this
movement of light often moves people's emotions (KELLERT; CALABRESE, 2015).
Another important element for evoking emotions in architecture is texture, due to its
visual effect and, especially, the possibility of tactile sensation (ROTH; CLAR, 2018).
The sense of touch plays a relevant role in perceptions because it promotes the
action of generating and modifying sensations. Textures and emotions are
associated and can be measured based on temperature, smoothness, roughness,
and the pleasure they provide to the individual (IOSIFYAN; KOROLKOVA, 2019).
Texture can be provided by natural materials such as wood, natural stone, bamboo,
straw, and clay, which bring textures and colors reminiscent of nature (KELLERT;
HEERWAGEN; MADOR, 2008).
Ceiling height will influence "spatial navigation" and consequently affect the user's
concentration levels. For example, high ceilings are suitable in environments for
creative activities because the increased height creates a sense of freedom and
allows the brain to "explore" the environment freely, promoting creativity and
spontaneous behaviors. On the other hand, low ceilings favor tasks that require
greater concentration and repetition because these spaces present spatial
limitations to the brain, leading to increased concentration for the individual. Both
ceiling heights affect the brain unconsciously (FERNÁNDEZ, 2019; SHAABAN,
KAMEL, KHODEIR, 2023).
Colors, in psychology, are related to sensory stimuli regardless of cultural aspects
(RODRIGUES, 2022 apud KURT; OSUEKE, 2014). In general, the most influential
colors are red, green, yellow, and blue. Colors can influence and condition human
moods and physiological responses. For this reason, it is essential to study the effect
of different hues, saturation, and luminosity on our brains and use them effectively
(FERNÁNDEZ, 2019).
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Nature-related tones (green, blue, yellow) reduce stress and stimulate a sense of
comfort (FERNÁNDEZ, 2019). Conversely, individuals exposed to the color red can
alter their physiological state, such as increased muscle tension, adrenaline release,
increased metabolism and heart rate, as well as increased gastric activity (ROTH;
CLAR, 2018). The use of bright colors should be applied with caution, moderating
artificial colors, especially bright ones, and emphasizing natural tones such as
flowers, sunsets, rainbows, plants, and animals. The use of natural colors creates
connections between the built environment and nature (ULRICH, 1993; KELLERT;
CALABRESE, 2015; DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL, 2017).
Architectural forms also have an impact on the human brain. Square spaces can
convey feelings of confinement, as the brain understands that it is in a closed space.
Sharp angles, in architectural volumes, for example, can evoke a sense of danger,
as we instinctively feel threatened by sharp objects (LEI XIA, 2020), potentially
causing stress and anxiety for users (FERNÁNDEZ, 2019). In contrast, the use of
curves or smooth contours conveys a sense of security and comfort, as they
resemble natural forms (KELLERT; CALABRESE, 2015). Therefore, mixing curved
geometries creates a sense of dynamism, making the space less static and creating
environments like nature, constantly changing (LEI XIA, 2020; SHAABAN, KAMEL,
KHODEIR, 2023).
The senses of smell and hearing are important tools for design. The sense of smell
is associated with certain aromas that bring to mind memories and past experiences,
along with emotion and feelings. Therefore, scent is an efficient instrument for
stimulating users' memory. On the other hand, noise, perceived by the sense of
hearing, can reduce space efficiency and increase stress and dissatisfaction in an
environment. This is because certain "noises" create distractions for individuals.
Stress caused by noise can enhance the release of the hormone cortisol, and excess
of this hormone can lead to irritability, mood swings, fatigue, among others (LEI XIA,
2020; SALVADOR, 2021).
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3. HUMAN SENSORY EXPERIENCES IN BUILT ENVIRONMENTS
Sensory experiences in built environments can be created through green spaces,
such as gardens. Green spaces have positive effects on the physical and mental
health of users and also possess healing and restorative properties. Vegetation can
stimulate our sensory senses in different ways, such as taste, smell, sight, touch,
and hearing. These multisensory experiences, such
as smelling flowers, tasting fruits, and touching plants, enhance the efficiency of
gardens. Thus, gardens become important structures for social interaction (ROEHR;
BAILEY, 2020).
The government of Singapore has created the concept of a "city in nature" so that
people can coexist with other living beings. The concept aims to implement gardens
in cities and inside buildings. These areas provide a natural habitat for other living
beings in a dense urban context, reducing urban noise and encouraging physical
and social activities (JOSON, 2022). In Figure 1, an aerial image of a building in
Singapore that features the "city in nature" concept is shown, highlighting the
possibility of living in an urban area connected to nature.
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Figure 1 - Urban green spaces in Singapore - Aerial view
Source: JOSON, 2022.
Green spaces in architecture can be attributed to biophilic design, which varies the
typology of vegetation, fractal forms and patterns, amount of visual information,
complexity, and colors to enhance the quality of the built environment (PAIVA, 2021).
Biophilia is a concept that emerged in the 1980s and was introduced by biologist
Edward O. Wilson. According to Wilson (1984, p. 3), biophilia is the "innate tendency
of humans to connect with nature and other living beings."
In other words, biophilia connects people with nature, which is deeply rooted in our
psyche (DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL, 2017). This is because humans have a biological
attraction to the natural environment (ULRICH, 1993; BOUBEKRI et al., 2014;
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DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL, 2017). In Figure 2, an example of biophilic design in an
indoor environment is shown.
Figure 2 - Biophilic Design
Source: Baldwin, 2020.
Natural lighting also provides sensory experiences for humans because sunlight can
create a stronger connection with nature. Through natural light, the brain coordinates
much of its functioning with the world, regulating biological and psychological cycles,
hormonal secretion, and cellular function, for example (PAIVA; JEDON, 2019).
Furthermore, natural lighting creates more pleasant and welcoming environments,
reduces stress, and improves air quality (ULRICH, 1993; BOUBEKRI et al., 2014;
DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL, 2017; PAIVA; JEDON, 2019). Therefore, natural light
becomes an essential element for creating experiences in built environments
(FERNÁNDEZ, 2019).
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On the other hand, artificial light forces the brain to work automatically, and
consequently, it can harm productivity. However, natural light can contribute to
concentration, vitamin D production, reduce fatigue, the risk of depression, and
improve sleep quality (BOUBEKRI et al., 2014; FERNÁNDEZ, 2019). In Figure 3,
architectural elements known as "cobogó" are shown, allowing the entry of natural
light into a built environment.
Figure 3 - Natural Lighting in Built Spaces
Source: Archdaily, 2022.
When considering human sensory experiences in built environments, we can
perceive the importance of natural elements such as green spaces, natural lighting
and ventilation, organic materials, colors, and textures from nature to provide
pleasant sensations, stimulate the senses, and create memorable experiences
(ULRICH, 1983). These elements can influence decision-making, improve cognitive
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function (KHALEGHIMOGHADDAM, et al., 2022), mood (DÜZENLİ; EREN, AKYOL,
2017), and sleep quality (BOUBEKRI et al., 2014). Thus, environments can be
created that positively affect people's health, well-being, and productivity (PAIVA,
2018).
Similarly, built environments can convey negative feelings and experiences, as
exemplified by the Jewish Museum in Berlin, founded in 1933. The museum was
designed by Daniel Libeskind to depict the suffering of Jews during the conflicts of
the 20th century under the Nazi regime. For this purpose, the architect used
architectural techniques to create environments that evoke the hardships
experienced by Jews (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021).
The architect created dark spaces with no openings for natural lighting or ventilation,
slanted walls, long and narrow corridors. As reported by users, it is evident that the
space conveys feelings of anguish, dizziness, discomfort, claustrophobia, and
distress. Figure 4 illustrates external views of the museum, highlighting on the left
the deconstruction of the Star of David on the façade and on the right, a corridor with
slanted walls and uneven flooring (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021, p.152).
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Figure 4 - Jewish Museum in Berlin - External Images of the Museum
Source: (VILLAROUCO et al., 2021, p.152).
Another example is the ROM Crystal Museum, located in Toronto, Canada, which
was also designed by Daniel Libeskind in 2017. According to Viola (2017), the angles
of the building appear to emerge from the ground in a display of brute force, which
is why it has sparked controversy among visitors and residents. While some visitors
find it to be a stunning piece of architecture, there are other users who do not
appreciate this work. In Figure 5, you can see the sharp volume of the building.
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Figure 5 - Side View of the ROM Crystal Museum
Source: VIOLA, 2017, p.3.
Viola asserts that the feeling of rejection arises due to the sharp external volumetrics.
Sharp angles convey a sense of danger because we instinctively feel threatened by
pointed objects and can produce feelings of stress or anxiety, for example
(VILLAROUCO et al., 2021; FERNÁNDEZ, 2019). Another significant problem with
the design is the dysfunctionality of some interior spaces that cannot be used due to
the Museo's inclination (Viola, 2017).
It is notable, for example, the influence of the Jewish Museum in Berlin and the ROM
Crystal Museum in creating spaces that go beyond the exhibition function but also
explore the individual's relationship with the built environment. These examples
show us that the quality of space can directly affect the sensory experiences of the
user and, consequently, their perception and learning (PAIVA, 2018). Therefore, it
is essential for architects and designers to consider the importance of sensory
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experiences when designing and constructing environments that go beyond
functionality and aesthetics but also explore the emotional state of people in the built
space.
4. FINAL REMARKS
Neuroarchitecture, in an interdisciplinary manner, seeks to understand the
connections between the brain and the built environment. It is understood that
neuroarchitecture is strongly linked to the development of spaces that have positive
impacts on the human brain. The influence of space on people is captured by the
brain, resulting in different sensations and emotions. This spatial perception can
unconsciously impact our emotional state, behavior, and health. It is important to
note that self-perception of space differs mainly based on memories and
experiences previously lived. The human brain is continuously stimulated by what
we see, experience, and associate memories with specific places.
It is understood that each human being receives and decodes environmental stimuli
uniquely. Investing in visual, tactile, auditory, and olfactory stimuli can be crucial
when designing environments. It is possible to stimulate people through these
environments, as architecture is an extension of the human being and should be
understood as multisensory spaces. Multisensory perception in architecture mainly
includes experiences of visual, olfactory, auditory, emotional, and tactile memories.
Designing a space that stimulates user productivity, health, and well-being should
be a priority for architects and designers. For example, the presence of green spaces
in the urban environment is extremely important for the physical and mental health
of users. Benefits include stress reduction, improved air quality, reduced urban
noise, as well as encouraging physical activity and socialization. Access to green
areas can also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve cognitive
function.
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The incorporation of natural elements into built environments is an effective way to
apply neuroarchitecture to promote health and well-being for users. Natural stones,
wood, bamboo, architectural elements with water, are some examples that can be
used to achieve this goal. The presence of these elements indoors can help reduce
stress, improve mood, productivity, and increase satisfaction.
Natural lighting is another important element in built spaces. Exposure to natural
light can help reduce the risk of depression, contribute to the regulation of the
circadian rhythm, improve sleep quality due to the variability of sunlight during the
day, and its connection to the human body's biological system.
The choice of colors, shapes, textures, and the arrangement of furniture and objects
can also have a significant impact on users' perception of space. The use of natural
colors can create links between the natural environment and the built environment
and contribute to stress reduction. The choice of materials and textures can affect
the sensory perception of space, creating a cozier space. The arrangement of
furniture and objects can help create a sense of flow and movement in space, and
also influence how people interact with each other.
In general, the creation of healthy spaces for users should take into consideration
the influence of space on the human brain through neuroarchitecture. Architects and
designers must be aware of the positive and negative effects that each element can
have on people and seek to create spaces that meet the specific needs and
objectives of each project. Although further in-depth studies and research are still
needed, it can be stated that neuroarchitecture is a useful tool for creating
environments that maximize the well-being, health, productivity, and cognitive
performance of people. This is because it is focused on the development of spaces
that have positive impacts on the human brain.
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Sent: February 13, 2023.
Approved: June 22, 2023.
1
Bachelor's degree in Architecture and Urbanism from UNIP - Paulista University, Araçatuba
campus, 2022. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4486-9093. Lattes Curriculum:
http://lattes.cnpq.br/1260664799408224.
