Have you ever wondered how the spaces we visit or inhabit make us feel and why? A new trend that has come to be known as ‘neuro-friendly’ architecture is based on the idea that the design of buildings and places should not only be aesthetically attractive and functional, but also support our mental and emotional well-being. In a context where stress and disconnection from nature are everyday occurrences, the design of spaces becomes relevant with this architectural perspective. It puts people and their well-being at the centre of design.
Therefore, the design of a neuro-friendly space must consider a number of fundamental principles that support well-being, namely:
–Sunlight has a positive impact on our mood and energy levels.
-The integration of nature itself, or biophilia, helps people feel more connected to their natural environment.
–Soft colours, pleasant textures and flowing shapes help reduce daily stress.
–Flexible spaces, which adapt to the different needs and times of the people who live in them, undoubtedly make life more enjoyable.
-And of course, noise control, as a noisy environment makes relaxation and concentration more difficult.
These neuro-friendly spaces improve our mood, but they also increase our productivity, reduce anxiety, and foster social connection and a sense of community. Offices that seek to foster creativity, schools that turn learning into a welcoming experience, or hospitals that make patients feel good, openly adopt the perspective of neuro-friendly architecture.
By Ángel Ibáñez Pérez, Senior MEP Engineer at Amusement Logic’s Architecture Dept.
