Last week we spoke with Linda Kafka, one of Canada's leading experts on using science in design and founder of The NeuroDesign Academy. 'At The NeuroDesign Academy, we believe that design is more than aesthetics; it's a pathway to well-being. By blending science with creativity, we empower interior designers to curate spaces that resonate deeply, supporting not only the mind and body but the very essence of what it means to feel at home in our environments,' she shares. Today we'll elaborate on the topic, discussing the cultural differences in neuroscience-based design and the upcoming trend: biophilic design.
Linda Kafka.
Could you share more about the global response to NeuroDesign? Are there any cultural differences in how neuroscience-based design is embraced?
'The interest in neurodesign is indeed global. We already see the architectural community worldwide focusing on neuroarchitecture, with the formation of new associations like ANFA: The Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture, theHAPI.org (researched based nonprofit on cognitive architecture), and organisations like John Hopkins, International Arts + Minds Lab, run by Susan Magsamen.
Interior designers in Europe, and even as far as Australia are also grasping the significance of neurodesign and are eager to incorporate its principles into their work. Just recently, a new documentary was released in Australia on the neuroscience of gathering. Specifically directed at the hospitality industry, this informative documentary helps us to better understand why humans are compelled to come together to dine. Since 2010, awareness of neurodesign has steadily increased in our sector, especially as research in neuroscience and its intersection with design has gained traction. Initially embraced by commercial designers recognising the impact of environments on emotions and well-being, neurodesign is now beginning to make its way into the residential sector, with its potential quickly becoming more recognised.
As neurodesign gains traction internationally, we're beginning to see subtle cultural variations in its application. For instance, European designers without question integrate biophilic elements more extensively than we do in North America. This emphasis stems from a cultural lifestyle that values daily outdoor experiences, which translates into designs that naturally incorporate connections to nature. Meanwhile, designers in urban centres across Asia like Singapore and Japan prioritise sensory engagement and stress reduction in highly dense environments and cities. The concept of forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, originated in Japan in the early 1980s as a response to the increasing stress and disconnection from nature caused by rapid urbanisation and modern lifestyles.
The Nordic countries are leading in neurodesign in order to enhance quality of life and promote well-being through a people-first philosophy. Their approach focuses on well-being, but includes sustainability, along with nature. Cultural variations there include Denmark's concept of hygge, which emphasises comfort, simplicity, and warmth, alongside natural materials and environments that foster relaxation, clarity, and emotional health.
Despite these slight differences, the underlying principles of neurodesign—creating spaces that resonate with human biology and support emotional well-being—are universally relevant, which has helped foster a shared interest across borders. The NeuroDesign Academy is excited to support this growing global community by offering resources, on demand education, along with in person and online meet ups to address the demand for neuroscience-backed design strategies.'
What role does biophilic design play in your courses, and why is it becoming more important in modern design?
'Biophilic design is one of the foundational elements in our curriculum, as it aligns closely with our inherent connection to nature. Humans spent a significant portion of our evolutionary history living in natural environments, and because of this, biophilic elements resonate deeply with us. To put our evolutionary timeline into perspective, imagine a 24-hour clock: humans have spent 23 hours and 59 minutes of our existence in nature, with only the last minute representing modern-day life. This deep-rooted connection and, as a result of our genetic programming, natural elements—such as light, plants, organic materials, textures, fractals, patterns and even olfactory cues—profoundly affect our well-being.
In today's world, where people spend the majority of their time indoors, biophilic design offers a way to reintroduce these beneficial natural elements into our daily lives. Our courses explore how incorporating these elements can reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and support overall health.
We teach designers to move beyond aesthetics, focusing on how biophilic principles can create environments that foster physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This approach is essential to modern design as people seek spaces that provide not only function but also a sense of calm and connection to nature, no matter where they are.'
More information:
The NeuroDesign Academy
[email protected]
www.neurodesignacademy.com
Canada