Neuroarchitecture and neurodesign
Neuroarchitecture and neurodesign use neuroscience to understand how interiors, buildings, and cities shape stress, attention, learning, social interaction, and wellbeing. By analysing both existing environments and early-stage plans, the field shows how spatial qualities influence human responses and performance, from single rooms to whole urban areas.
This research-driven perspective is central to the emerging Brain Economy, where environments are recognised as key enablers for human capacity, creativity, and innovation. Supportive spaces strengthen focus, adaptability, and collaboration, while poor design increases stress, cognitive load, and social friction. Applying these insights early in planning creates long-term value for organisations and society.
RISE and University College London (UCL) lead the world’s first international centre for neuroarchitecture and neurodesign. We support organisations from insight to implementation, translating scientific findings into concrete design recommendations, prioritisation guidance, and practical improvements that enhance health, performance, and outcomes.
Discover how neuroarchitecture and neurodesign can elevate your project or organisation. Contact us to book a meeting.
Neuroarchitecture in urban environments
Neuro-Aware Journeys
Brain Economy: Brain health at the heart of the cities of the future
Sweden's competitiveness is determined by capital and technology, but also by people's cognitive capacity. Within Brain Economy, our brain health is described as a critical raw material in the modern economy. Could this change how we build our cities?
Nature-inspired architecture may reduce brain inflammation
Short-term stress can be beneficial, while chronic stress drives neuroinflammation. In a pilot study, researchers asked themselves: Can architecture reminiscent of nature reduce inflammation in the brain?