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Neuroarchitecture

Neuroarchitecture is the study of how human being feel in built structures. Usually used in the design of public places like hospitals, restaurants, and so on. Long ago I read about the colour red being used in restaurants because it makes people feel hungrier. I notice red in restaurant decor because of that and I don't think there is a lot of red. Maybe the colour itself is just too bold for the comfort zone of people. They may be hungry but they won't feel comfortable and welcome with all that challenging, dramatic red around.

Neuroarchitecture in your own home: avoid clutter, appeal to your senses, and add plants.

  • Avoiding or removing clutter will keep you from having too much around which does make people feel more stress - like having a to-do list stuck in front of your face all day. It will also make the room feel fresh and appealing.
  • Plants can help in many ways - if you don't forget them entirely. If you aren't a plant person consider artificial plants to have the living thing feeling with plants that do not die.
  • Lighting speaks for itself. You need to see where you are going and have the lights off when you go to bed, or have a nap. Also find sources of natural light and make the most of them. Don't block your windows with furniture. Does anyone actually do that?
  • Consider sound and the other senses: touch, smell and taste included. Maybe there was more behind Grandparents leaving candies out in a bowl on the table. Seeing little lemon candies can make you feel happy thinking about the taste and smell of them even if you don't take any.
  • They say round corners are better than sharp edges, more peaceful. Look around your home, how many rounded corners does your furniture have. Mine seems to all have rounded corners. I never thought about it before. Likely furniture is designed this way to prevent accidents or catching our clothes as we move around it. The closest thing I can find to a sharp edge is my computer itself.

Applying Neuro-Architecture at Home

Light - Sensation and perception

The circadian rhythm refers to our internal biological clock. It's what helps the body adapt to the cycle of day and night. While the body can maintain a regular circadian rhythm without environmental cues, mood can be affected when nocturnal functions are interrupted with bright light.

Shapes - Learning and memory

Sharp objects conveyed a sense of danger, which many people feel negatively towards. On the other hand, curves encourage contentment. Rounded decor encourages more brain activity.

Objects - Decision making

Decision fatigue occurs when the brain gets tired of making too many decisions. Your brain defaults to the easiest options. Eliminate clutter.

The View - Emotion

Biophilia is the idea that humans have an instinctive bond with other living things - including plants. Plants can reduce stress and improve concentration levels.

Arrangement - Movement

Dopamine is the brain chemical activated when the brain is exposed to novel stimuli. Hence, a change in the environment can lift moods and create a sense of satisfaction. Deep clean your space and rearrange your furniture every few years. Consider foot traffic, convenience, and the focal point of the space.

Source: How To: Boost your mood with the right home decoration | Inhabitat