Are we building for people – or just for what we’ve been able to measure so far?

We are facing a paradigm shift in how we plan, develop, and design our built environments. For a long time, architecture and urban planning have been guided by function, aesthetics, technology, economics, and—in recent decades—sustainability. But new research in neuroarchitecture and neurodesign shows that human cognitive and biological needs must also become a natural part of future decision-making.

This thought paper discusses how the built environment affects people’s health, well-being, and cognitive abilities, beyond its traditional function of providing shelter, efficiency, and sustainable communities. This perspective highlights how neuroscience, sensor technology, and data-driven analysis are, for the first time, making it possible to measure and understand how buildings, interiors, and urban spaces affect stress, recovery, concentration, learning, and creativity. If the built environment has a greater impact on people’s well-being and performance than we previously realized, how do we design the buildings and cities of the future to enhance people’s potential? 

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How to use the material 

This material can be used as a basis for strategic discussions on how the built environment affects people’s health, well-being, and cognitive abilities. It can also serve as a foundation for dialogue on how buildings, interiors, and urban spaces can be designed to promote focus, learning, creativity, and recovery. For decision-makers, planners, architects, and real estate developers, this material offers a perspective on how new insights into human needs can be integrated into future community and urban development. 

Background

The material is based on current research in neuroarchitecture and neurodesign. By studying both existing environments and early planning stages, the field demonstrates how spatial qualities shape people’s reactions and performance, from individual rooms to entire urban environments. This perspective is central to the emerging Brain Economy, where environments are viewed as critical factors for human capacity, creativity, and innovation. 

Contact us

At RISE, we support organizations throughout the entire process—from research and insights to practical implementation—and transform scientific findings into concrete design recommendations, prioritization guidance, and improvements that enhance health, performance, and outcomes. Find out how neuroarchitecture and neurodesign can elevate your project or organization. Contact us to schedule a meeting.

Maria Tunberg

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Maria Tunberg

Chef Strategisk forskning och affärsutveckling

+46 10 228 48 06

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