Perception
“Changes in the environment change the brain, and therefore they change our behavior. In planning the environments in which we live, architectural design changes our brain and our behavior.” (Gage, 2003) In this quote Fred Gage points out the importance of the relationship between the user and the built environment [1].
We spend about 90% our time in built environments, mostly indoors [2]. The majority of our life happens within built spaces and there are short- and long-term effects on the physical and mental health, that still need to be investigated. Architects, psychologists, and neuroscientists are working intensely to determine which factors affect the users regarding the built spaces.
Most of the behavioral changes are happening subconsciously [1]. Our senses can be stimulated positively with a well thought-through design concept of the built enviroment. Therefore, it is important to learn which factors have effects on our sensory perception, including light, nature, scent, colors, sound, movement and material. For instance a high amount of unnatural light, particularly blue light, has shown negative impacts on the circadian rhythm, especially around the later evening. For office and public buildings a healthy concept to integrate natural light as much as possible needs to be considered.
Historically, humans are closely connected with nature and the environment. Neuroscience reveals that natural elements can stimulate the brain in ways that promote well-being, reduce stress, and enhance focus. For instance, viewing natural landscapes activates parts of the brain associated with relaxation and stress reduction. [3] Also colors can have a profound impact on our mood. Soft blues and greens often induce feelings of calmness and relaxation, while yellows stimulate feelings of happiness and optimism. On the other hand, an abundance of red can be invigorating, but also potentially stressful if overused.
Imagine a high-ceilinged room bathed in soft blues, evoking feelings of vastness and tranquillity. Or a cozier, rounded space in earthy tones, fostering feelings of warmth and intimacy. Neuroarchitecture delves deep into understanding how design elements affect the brain's processes related to perception. Therefore, gaining knowledge about the sensory design and the perception of built spaces is crucial for creating healthy architectural concepts.