According to Fred ‘Rusty’ Case, a leading neuroscientist, “Architectural design changes our brain and our behavior”. He is not alone in his assertions; many researchers on the subject feel the same way. By crafting our environment, humans can create an ideal living space that helps in mental processing and improves mood. This is referred to as neuroarchitecture.
What is neuroarchitecture?
It is a field that studies how the brain and body respond to design. Neuroarchitecture relies on principles such as sensation, emotion, perception, learning, and memory to craft an environment most suitable to the habitant. Therefore, even though this style of design is often used in hospitals, offices, and schools, you can use the same ideas at home to make yourself feel better and be more positive. Below are five principles based on neuroarchitecture to help you create an ideal living space.
Lights
Blue light can throw off your body’s biological clock, impacting your sleep cycle and mood. To soften the light in your home, install dimmers in rooms where you spend mornings and evenings. The shifting of the light helps your body transition from day to night. Dimmers typically cost about $30, but they’re worth the price.
Colors
Color is an important aspect of the design. Your color palette should be something that inspires and motivates you. Too often, people try to match everything, but in reality, all wood grains don’t have to match (diversity is interesting!). Feed your creativity by creating a color palette of two neutrals and one wild accent color. And always consider color associations when planning your design.
Shapes
Curvy is popular, even in design. According to one study, round decor encourages more brain activity compared to boxy decor. Rounded furniture is also seen as friendly, soft, and inviting. Fortunately, this type of furniture is everywhere at the moment. If you don’t want to buy all-new furniture, add some classy round pillows or a round coffee table. Even bowls and rounded vases can break up the rigidity of angular decor.
Patterns
Depending on how much and how often a pattern is repeated, it can either calm or bother the brain. So, be careful when picking out prints and wallpaper, and use the rule of three. In other words, the arrangement of odd numbers is more appealing and memorable. This applies to artwork, decor, and even furniture.
Plants
What role do plants play in design? You’ll be surprised! Research has found that plants reduce stress and improve concentration. They also contribute to cleaner indoor air. According to NASA, the most effective air-purifying houseplants are the peace lily, snake plant, and aloe vera.
What role do plants play in design? You’ll be surprised! Research has found that plants reduce stress and improve concentration. They also contribute to cleaner indoor air. According to NASA, the most effective air-purifying houseplants are the peace lily, snake plant, and aloe vera.
