Neuroaesthetics in Healthcare Design: Evaluating the Impact of Environmental Aesthetics on Patient Stress, Well-Being, and Recovery Outcomes

Abstract

This research investigates the application of neuroaesthetic principles in healthcare interior design to analyse how visual, spatial, and sensory environmental factors influence patient stress reduction, emotional regulation, and perceived recovery. Neuroaesthetics, a discipline integrating neuroscience with aesthetics, evaluates how the brain responds to colour, natural elements, spatial organization, lighting quality, textures, and art in built environments. Modern healthcare facilities increasingly seek evidence-based design strategies that improve patient outcomes through supportive environments that reduce anxiety, enhance mood, and promote cognitive ease.
The study examines three key neuroaesthetic parameters: biophilic visual stimuli, colour psychology, and spatial clarity and evaluates their psychological and physiological influence on patients. Survey responses, behavioural observations, and environmental assessments indicate that exposure to biophilic imagery, natural colour palettes, and clear wayfinding significantly lowers perceived stress (35%), improves emotional comfort, and enhances patient–environment compatibility. Findings confirm that neuroaesthetic design strategies contribute measurably to supportive healing environments and strengthen the shift from clinical ambience toward human-centred therapeutic spaces. This research contributes to the expanding discourse on cognitive-emotional design in healthcare interiors and supports its relevance as a pivotal factor in patient-centred care.

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