Building Brains Coalition

State of the Field Review: Neuroarchitecture and Brain Health

This state of the field review synthesizes emerging evidence on how the built environment shapes brain function, cognitive performance, emotional regulation, and long-term neurological health. Drawing from neuroscience, environmental psychology, public health, economics, and architectural research, the report establishes the theoretical and empirical foundations of neuroarchitecture as a distinct, transdisciplinary field.

The review examines neurobiological mechanisms across urban, street, building, and interior scales; evaluates methodological approaches for measuring brain–environment interactions; and maps the growing global ecosystem of academic centers, professional practices, and policy initiatives working at this intersection. Together, these analyses position evidence-based environmental design as a scalable public-health strategy for addressing cognitive decline, mental health burden, climate vulnerability, and productivity loss.

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Authors & research leadership

Upali Nanda, HKS

Harris Eyre, Global Brain Economy / UTMB

Eve Edelstein, Stanford University

Burcin Ikiz, EcoNeuro

Julie Hiromoto, HKS

Margaret Tarampi, ANFA

Maria Christofi, University of Houston

When to use this review

This report is intended for:

• Researchers studying neuroscience, environmental psychology, public health, or urban systems

• Architects, planners, interior designers, and engineers integrating evidence-based design

• Healthcare, education, workplace, and real-estate leaders evaluating environmental performance

• Policymakers and foundations working on brain health, climate adaptation, or human capital

• Organizations exploring “brain capital,” workforce resilience, and long-term social productivity

Use the review to understand the current scientific consensus, identify research gaps, inform design and policy decisions, and support investment in neuro-informed environments.

How to use the report

This publication is structured to function as:

• A reference document – summarizing validated neurobiological pathways linking design and brain outcomes

• A research roadmap – outlining methodological standards, tools, and priority questions for future study

• A practice guide – translating scientific findings into design-relevant concepts across spatial scales and building types

• A policy and investment resource – framing the built environment as a measurable determinant of population brain health and economic performance

Readers may consult individual chapters by topic or use the report holistically to support research design, project development, institutional strategy, or funding decisions.

Support & funding

This state of the field review was supported by contributions from coalition member institutions, philanthropic partners, academic collaborators, and industry organizations committed to advancing brain health through environmental design, research, and policy innovation.

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