Neuroarchitecture: The Power Of The Medium Over The Brain

Although neuroarchitecture appears to be a new discipline, the truth is that it is close to completing seventy years of life; decades in which its most important goal has not varied.  Its function is to create spaces for happiness, well-being, productivity and quality of life.  That is, buildings that reduce stress and anxiety.

It is an industry in which architects and neuroscientists work together to fulfill the goal of designing spaces and buildings centered on the brain functioning of those who occupy them. The position of windows, the angles of walls and furniture, colors, textures, open spaces and sounds, among others, are the components on which this “shared” science is based.

What is neuroarchitecture?

Seen from the perspective of creating buildings that affect the functioning of the brain, it can be said that it is a discipline that refers to the first Gothic buildings, although as a science it is much younger.

In fact, it could be said that neuroarchitecture as we know it now was born about 25 years ago. She was inspired by the neuroplasticity of the brain. Neuroarchitecture is a discipline that is interested in how the environment modifies brain chemistry and, therefore, emotions, thoughts and behaviors.

Dr. Fred Gage, a neuroscientist at the Salk Institute, was interested in the effects on the brain caused by changes in the environment. His interest is centered on understanding how the brain interprets, analyzes and reconstructs the space that surrounds it. In this way, neuroscience provides valuable clues for architects on how to distribute spaces.

The creation of certain environments makes the brain put into practice mechanisms that produce the hormones necessary for the development of emotions and certain sensations.

The psychosocial influence of architecture

It is estimated that humans spend more than 90% of their time inside buildings. Knowing how the environment has power over the brain, this data alone gives us a lot of information, and a very clear idea of ​​the importance of creating more humane, healthier buildings that generate well-being. Neuroarchitecture focuses on both aesthetic spaces and symbolic aspects.

Neuroscience can map the brain and understand what stimulates it and what kinds of things activate it. A building whose architecture inspires calm has nothing to do with one that inspires anxiety, for example.

In this sense, neuroarchitecture works on concepts such as the amount and projection of light or the height of ceilings. Knows how to influence creativity and productivity. It considers that architectural elements produce in the brain a collaborative effect or a need for privacy.

The elements

We know several architectural elements that influence our mental state. For example, we know that architectural designs with visible or pointed angles favor the emergence of stress. Rectangular spaces have a less enclosed feel than square floor plans.

Lighting is another important element. Poor artificial light forces the brain to work harder on the task, which influences productivity, for example.

High ceilings are suitable for creative and artistic activities. On the other hand, low ceilings favor concentration and routine work.

Colors influence mood and, therefore, decisions and attitudes. Green colors reduce heart rate and relieve stress. Red tones stimulate cognitive and attention processes, so they are of great help in tasks that require great mental concentration.

In symbiosis with the outside

In recent years, neuroarchitecture is understanding the importance of outdoor spaces and nature for the correct functioning of the brain. After all, this is as fundamental as recharging the battery of electronic devices. Nature gives the brain the ability to disconnect and recharge.

Another important element when disconnecting is provided by the auditory cortex. This area of ​​the brain is responsible for interpreting sound vibrations. It is known that when a person activates this area with music that they like, they generate extra amounts of dopamine, a hormone that improves concentration at work.