The architecture of the future: neuroscience and design for human spaces

Abstract

This contribution aims to explore the relationship between the built environment, society, and neuroscience through some reflections and ongoing research experiences in Italy. The architectural design sector is facing a long-standing crisis rooted in the rapid changes of society, in a modernity that already hints at the future but sometimes seems uncontrollable. The phenomenon of mass tourism, the improper reuse of ancient buildings, and sophisticated but user-unfriendly technologies show today's architects the limits of a design that has only partially succeeded in addressing the concept of "future design". The newly emerging discipline of neuroarchitecture, which combines the world of design with neuroscience and the study of human behavior, can address some questions about our perception of buildings and cities, providing objective measurements to inspire future evidence-based architectural design. Neuroscience can provide control tools that will be valuable beyond the present time because they are centered on the psyche and the well-being of human beings.

Keywords

• emotions
• perception
• city
• future design
• neuroarchitecture