How Our Brains React to the Spaces Around Us
Have you ever walked into a building and just felt something like a sense of calm, inspiration, or even excitement-without really knowing why? It's not just good architecture at play; it's how our brains respond to the spaces around us.
During a recent work trip, I was facilitating a multi-day project kick-off in The Woodlands, a special-purpose district outside of Houston, Texas. One evening, I happened to find a True Foods restaurant-perfect for people like me who have multiple food sensitivities. I decided to sit down for an early dinner. While I enjoy these work trips, I always look forward to quiet and calm at the end of the day. As I looked around, I noticed the beautiful natural surroundings and saw the word "GROW" displayed, almost as if it was speaking directly to me. This moment got me thinking about how beauty in our environment influences us more than we realize.
It’s a topic I recently explored with Dr. Anjan Chatterjee, a neurologist and cognitive neuroscientist, who studies how beauty and the built environment shape our emotions, thoughts, and connections. He shared how our brains are actually wired to seek beauty because it’s linked to survival and pleasure. In his book The Aesthetic Brain: How We Evolve to Desire Beauty and Enjoy Art, he breaks down how design and architecture influence us on a much deeper level than we realize.
Listen to "How Beautiful Spaces Shape Our Minds” with Dr. Anjan Chatterjee on Apple Podcast and Spotify
"Hominess is not about perfection, but about belonging. Create spaces where you, and others feel like you belong, and watch how it transforms your sense of connection." — Dr. Anjan Chatterjee
Key Insights from My Conversation with Dr. Chatterjee
Evolution Shapes Our Brains: The way we understand, interact with, and crave experiences is shaped by the environment we evolved in.
Our Environments, Ourselves: The spaces we inhabit directly influence our emotions, behavior, and well-being.
Beauty is a Biological Necessity: Our brains are wired to seek beauty because it’s linked to survival and pleasure. Surround yourself with beauty—whether in art, architecture, or nature—and let it fuel your joy and fulfillment.
Design for Connection: Spaces that foster connection and belonging can transform relationships and help us feel grounded.
Dr. Chatterjee’s work reminds us that thoughtful design isn’t just about functionality—it’s about creating environments that promote connection, joy, and well-being.
Spotlight: What Gen X Wants in Senior Living
Last month, I had the amazing opportunity to stay overnight and spend two days at a wonderful senior living community outside of Chicago working with our fabulous Senior Living team. Our time was filled with interviewing residents, being a part of resident life, and planning for the future. As Generation X begins to approach retirement age, their preferences for senior living will reshape the industry. According to a recent MarketWatch article, Gen Xers are prioritizing spaces that emphasize independence, connection, and personalized experiences.
Read the full article here: Generation X is ready for senior living. Here’s what they want.
Key Trends in Senior Living Design
Flexibility and Independence: Gen Xers want environments that allow them to maintain autonomy while offering support as needed.
Community-Focused Spaces: They value opportunities for social interaction through shared spaces like fitness centers, cafes, and outdoor areas.
Technology Integration: Smart home features and access to digital tools are key for this tech-savvy generation.
Wellness-Oriented Design: Spaces that promote physical activity, mental health, and relaxation are highly sought after—think yoga studios or meditation gardens.
These trends align closely with Dr. Chatterjee’s insights on how environments can foster connection and well-being by blending functionality with beauty.
Looking Ahead
Next up on the podcast: I’ll be speaking with Tye Farrow about how architecture can shape our health and well-being through thoughtful design choices. Stay tuned for "Designing Health: How Architecture Shapes Our Well-Being with Tye Farrow," premiering April 4th!
Until then, take a moment to really notice the spaces around you. What catches your eye? What makes you feel at ease or inspired? Maybe it’s rearranging a cozy corner, letting in more natural light, or adding a piece of art that speaks to you. What small changes can you make today to create a space that nurtures connection, beauty, and a sense of belonging?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Reply and let me know, or share this with a friend who would appreciate a fresh perspective on the power of design. Let’s continue creating spaces that uplift and inspire.