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@article{193038,
        author = {Ar. Neeta Mishra},
        title = {Neuroscience of Proportion in Architecture},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {9},
        pages = {3553-3562},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=193038},
        abstract = {This research investigates how the human brain perceives architectural proportion, symmetry, and geometric order as harmonious, establishing a link between architectural design and cognitive neuroscience. Moving beyond purely aesthetic or historical interpretations, the study examines how numerical ratios, modular systems, and spatial hierarchies influence perception, emotion, memory, and well-being through measurable neural processes. Drawing on historical proportional theories—from Vitruvian humanism and classical Greek modular systems exemplified by the Parthenon to the symmetry-based geometry of the Taj Mahal—the research reinterprets these traditions using contemporary tools such as EEG, fMRI, eye-tracking, and environmental psychology. Findings indicate that the brain demonstrates consistent preferences for symmetry, hierarchical scaling, rhythmic repetition, moderate complexity, and human-scaled ratios, as these reduce cognitive load, enhance visual fluency, and support emotional regulation. Fractal patterns and biophilic geometries further contribute to stress reduction and attention restoration, while embodied cognition and mirror neuron theory explain how spatial proportion is experienced through the body as well as visually. At the urban and architectural scale, well-proportioned environments improve wayfinding, social interaction, healing outcomes, and perceived safety. However, the study also critiques universalist claims—such as the deterministic use of the Golden Ratio—by highlighting cultural variability in aesthetic interpretation and symbolic meaning. The research concludes that neuroarchitecture provides a framework for integrating ancient geometric wisdom with empirical science, enabling evidence-based design strategies for human, cognitively supportive built environments. Future directions include incorporating neuroscience methods into architectural education and conducting real-world post-occupancy studies to translate laboratory findings into practical design guidelines.},
        keywords = {Neuroarchitecture; Architectural proportion; Symmetry; Cognitive load; Visual perception; Fractals; Biophilic design; Embodied cognition; Spatial memory; Evidence-based design; Human-scaled ratios; Environmental psychology},
        month = {February},
        }