Introduction to Neuroaesthetics in Interior Design
All my life I have been sensitive to my surroundings. When a space feels good, I don’t want to leave. And when a space is “off”, I can feel my energy shift typically feeling unsettled and looking for a way out.
This isn’t unique to me, however. As I’ve learned through the study of Neuroaesthetics, we are hardwired through our DNA to have physiological responses to our environment. It’s evolutionary.
Our brains are always looking for patterns that tell us to either stay (approach, it’s safe, rest and digest) or go (avoid, flight or flight).
Because of this, the way our surroundings look and feel has a profound impact on our well-being.
What is Neuroaesthetics in Interior Design?
Neuroaesthetics is an emerging field of science discipline that explores how the human brain perceives and responds to beauty and design.
It examines how color, texture, shape, and spatial arrangements influence emotions, decision-making, and even physiological responses.
By employing neuroaesthetics principles in design, we can create environments that not only look beautiful but also foster a sense of relaxation, improved cognition, and emotional resilience.
The Evolutionary Roots of Neuroaesthetics: Why Beauty Matters to the Brain
Early humans didn’t seek out visually pleasing landscapes just for enjoyment—they did so because aesthetically rich environments often signaled safety, resources, and survival.
Think about our ancestors living in savanna-like environments:
Water, greenery, and open spaces meant access to food and shelter.
Sunlight and expansive views allowed early humans to spot threats and navigate effectively.
Sheltered spaces provided protection from harsh weather and a visual advantage.
Bird song meant safety from predators
The sun & moon kept our circadian rhythms in sync
Humans have an intrinsic connection with nature. We call this Biophelia.
Neuroaesthetics research supports this, showing that natural environments stimulate the brain’s reward centers, leading to improved mood and focus.
By applying the principles of evolutionary neuroaesthetics, we can create spaces that don’t just look good—they feel right, tapping into millennia of human instinct to support well-being, cognition, and happiness.
The Connection Between Interior Design, the Brain, and Well-Being
Research has shown that having aesthetic experiences triggers neural pathways associated with pleasure, stress reduction, and cognitive clarity. Certain design elements can activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine—the “feel-good” neurotransmitter—leading to an overall sense of contentment.
Here are a few ways the interior environment can impact your overall well-being:
Stress Reduction: Studies show that exposure to well-designed spaces with natural elements like greenery and daylight can lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and improving emotional resilience.
Boosting Positivity: Spaces with harmonious layouts, balanced proportions, and “organized complexity” (i.e. balance between order and variety) are linked to higher levels of happiness and relaxation.
Productivity and Focus: Bright, thoughtfully organized workspaces with good lighting and minimal distractions significantly improve focus and task performance.
Social Interaction: Comfortable and welcoming communal spaces foster connection, conversation, and collaboration. Poorly designed spaces, on the other hand, can lead to withdrawal and social discomfort.
Better Sleep: Environments with calming hues, blackout window treatments, and soundproofing can significantly enhance sleep quality.
By understanding the evolutionary roots of neuroaesthetics, we can design spaces that don’t just look beautiful but also feel right. Spaces that reduce stress, encourage focus, foster connection, and promote better sleep. It’s about creating environments that naturally align with our instincts for comfort and well-being.
So, what does this mean for your home? How might you introduce more natural elements, play with textures, optimize your lighting, or create spaces that invite connection and calm?
If you're curious about how these principles can transform your home into a sanctuary of well-being, let’s talk. Book a discovery call, and together, we’ll explore how to design a space that nurtures both body and mind—creating a home that feels as good as it looks.