Designing quality homes is more than just creating spaces that look aesthetically pleasing. When done well, homes can have an impact on buyers’ mental and physical health and even improve cognitive ability, according to a recent blog post from KGA Studio Architects. When designing with neuroaesthetics in mind, architects can create spaces that promote relaxation and comfort and can therefore support the body’s nervous system.

Taking neuroaesthetics a step further, neuroarchitecture analyzes how the built environment–from private homes to public structures, parks, and transit systems–affects our emotions, health, and cognitive function.

There are biological and psychological explanations for why we prefer home exteriors to look a certain way, or why we feel cozier in one floor plan over another. Neuroarchitecture seeks to understand the whys and hows behind what makes a home look and feel wonderful to live in. More architecture and design professionals, including our own team at KGA, are paying attention.