What is Neuroarchitecture?

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Neuroarchitecture is the discipline dealing with the design of efficient spaces by studying the relationship between health and buildings with the application of neuroscience. It studies the impact of architectural elements on the emotional and physical health of the people. 

In addition to the technical parameters in architecture like legislation, ergonomics, and environmental comfort, neuroarchitecture focuses on emotion, happiness, and well-being.

Neuroarchitecture focuses less on the architecture and more on the people who embody it. The science reveals human love for texture, curves, symmetry, and how brains respond to different spaces. 

This article discusses the features and concepts of neuroarchitecture in modern building design.

Features of Neuroarchitecture

• Neuroarchitecture is a discipline that seeks the relationship between neuroscience and modern architecture. It is based on the fact that the artificial elements added to a space by humans have a significant impact on the function of the brain and the nervous system. It is an integration of three fields, namely, neurology, psychology, and architecture.
• The Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture in San Diego employs scientific technologies to study the response of people to a particular building space. Virtual simulation is one such tool used in neuroarchitecture that allows the user to experience the space before constructing it. 
• The influence of architecture on the behavior of the user is researched based on certain parameters:

1. Temperature: A comfortable surrounding is created by a well-balanced temperature. Our brain is very sensitive to sudden temperature changes that can negatively affect the cognitive ability and emotional level of the occupants.
2. Lighting: An intense white light helps activate our brains and reduce stress. On the other hand, a space with insufficient lighting changes our circadian rhythms and also affects the mood and activity of the occupants.
3. Plants: Green surroundings and natural materials in a biophilic or ecological design positively affect the human behavior.
4. Colors: It has been discovered that pink colors calm nerves and reduce anger, while warm colors improve productivity and concentration.
5. Scents: Scents are not always incorporated into architectural design. But the right scent, like natural scents, can enhance the space.
6. Curves: Round curves instead of sharp, angled edges help relax the brain.

• Neuroarchitecture does not follow a ready-made procedure. The process is dependent on the type of space, the client’s requirements, and the context of the construction. The color, light, scale, materials, landscaping, and acoustics vary based on the requirement.
• Neuroscience reveals that the brain's functioning towards various patterns is dependent on genetics, culture, and the individual. Hence, the same environment can have distinct effects on different people. Therefore, it is required to understand the potential occupants who can use the environment effectively and lead to the successful application of neuroarchitecture. 

Example of Neuroarchitecture

Jonas Salk, the American doctor who created the polio vaccine, was the first to experience the spaces influenced by emotions. He realized that he became more creative and inspired whenever he visited the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Italy.

Inspired by this, he called the architect Louis Kahn to plan and construct a project that is a mixture of art and science, where every building shows functionality and aesthetics. The design was intended to inspire scientists to do research. This led to the creation of the school called the Salk Institute for Biological Studies,  a research institute for molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, and plant biology in La Jolla, California. The building is one of the most incredible and emblematic buildings built in the 20th century.

Neuroarchitecture is a futuristic design approach to enhance the health and social relationships of the inhabitants. It is an essential tool in urban planning that results in cities and townships with building elements beneficial for human minds and health. 

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