Perspectives November 20, 2024

Designing for Brain Health

by Debbie Beck, Ed.D., MPA, FACHA, Principal, Advisory Services and Hala El Khorazaty, Senior Interior Designer

A large pavilion with a geometric facade

University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute

Cincinnati, Ohio

Transformative economic transitions like the bioeconomy, green economy, and digital economy are reshaping entire industries and changing how we live, work, and interact with our environment. And all these changes, at their core, are centered on the concept of “brain capital.” This concept considers the health and skills that underlie our collective capabilities to foster innovation, adaptability, and resilience in a rapidly evolving world. Brain health is a critical factor in ensuring success across all scales, from individuals and families to entire nations.

The built environment plays a pivotal role in advancing brain capital. The spaces we inhabit impact our cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, and mental health. By prioritizing brain-positive design in our buildings and urban planning, we can create environments that drive economic growth, build a resilient economy, and help individuals reach their full potential.

Enhancing cognitive function and emotional wellbeing

Enhancing cognitive function and emotional wellbeing is more crucial than ever, and neuroarchitecture focuses on designing spaces that positively impact our brains. Key design features include natural light, which boosts mood and enhances concentration; biophilic design, or integrating green spaces into environments to foster calm and reduce stress; and acoustic management strategies that minimize disruptive noise and enable focused work.

The University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute is an example of these design elements in action. It supports advanced neurological care, promotes wellbeing, and sets a benchmark for future healthcare environments.

University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute

Cincinnati, Ohio

Supporting neurodiversity and inclusivity

As more employers recognize the skills and innovations that neurodiverse employees bring to the workforce, they are motivated to create spaces that accommodate varying sensory and cognitive needs.

Sensory-friendly areas play a crucial role in inclusivity, ensuring that everyone can engage fully and comfortably. Spaces designed to minimize sensory overload and create a calming environment help those with heightened sensory sensitivities focus on their work. Adaptable spaces are equally important, since they can be easily modified to accommodate different neurological conditions. By providing intuitive navigation systems, we help reduce stress and confusion, making it easier for individuals to move through spaces without feeling overwhelmed.

A global energy firm’s new office in Washington, D.C. puts these principles into practice. By integrating design strategies from our Neurodiversity Toolkit, the workplace promotes individual wellbeing and fosters a more inclusive and innovative workforce.

These principles carry over into healthcare environments, as well. For instance, the Medical University of South Carolina Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital and Pearl Tourville Women’s Pavilion is one of the most “spectrum-friendly” hospitals in the U.S., with a sensory room dedicated to neurodivergent needs and a rooftop space offering play elements and native gardens.

Regenerative design goes beyond traditional sustainability by creating environments that not only minimize harm but actively restore and enhance the natural world.

Diagram showing the programmatic arrangement of a hospital building

Jackson West Medical Center Doral Campus

Doral, Florida

Promoting health and resilience through sustainable and regenerative design

Sustainable design practices enhance wellness and protect the environment. And regenerative design goes beyond traditional sustainability by creating environments that not only minimize harm but actively restore and enhance the natural world. Key considerations include energy efficiency, air quality, natural light, water conservation, green spaces, and using sustainable materials, all of which positively impact brain health.

The John S. Dunn Behavioral Sciences Building at the Texas Medical Center exemplifies sustainable design principles. The building features green courtyards and extensive landscaping, integrating nature into its design to enhance occupant wellbeing. It also incorporates advanced HVAC systems to ensure high-quality indoor air quality, promoting cognitive function and comfort. Additionally, sustainable materials throughout the building reflect a commitment to reducing environmental impact and supporting a healthier environment.

The Jackson West Medical Center Doral Campus goes even further. Located on a former brownfield site, the project actually rehabilitates and improves water quality, and its grounds function as a public park.

Cognizant's new office at 280 Bishopsgate

London, United Kingdom

Encouraging innovation and collaboration

The built environment plays a crucial role in enhancing the creativity and effective teamwork that drive economic success.

Flexible workspaces are a prime example of how design can support brain health. These adaptable environments allow individuals to tailor their surroundings to fit their working styles and preferences, which can enhance focus and cognitive performance. By accommodating new technologies and work methodologies, flexible workspaces help keep the brain engaged and agile, promoting mental resilience and productivity.

Collaborative areas also play a vital role in enhancing brain capital. These spaces encourage interaction and communication, which can stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving. Engaging with diverse perspectives can boost cognitive function and support mental health, leading to more innovative and effective solutions.

Cognizant’s “Workplace of the Future” shows how adaptable environments, by prioritizing design elements that support innovation, personal choice, and collaboration, can help foster an engaged workforce and ongoing economic vitality and resilience.

Policy and research recommendations for a brain-positive future

Along with other brain health experts from around the globe, we recently spoke at the United Nations General Assembly’s Science Summit 2024 about paths to a brain-positive future. We advocated for a strategic approach that encompasses short-term actions and long-term goals.

In the near term, we can make significant strides by focusing on policy development, research, and education. Policies that incentivize brain-positive design and regulating health standards will ensure that buildings support brain health. Applied research and pilot projects will demonstrate the benefits of these principles, and training programs for architects will promote widespread adoption.

Looking ahead to the long term, a comprehensive policy framework is essential. Implementing national standards for brain-positive design and integrating brain health considerations into urban planning will drive broader change. Investing in ongoing neuroarchitecture research and supporting large-scale implementation projects will help translate ideas into practical solutions, while educational initiatives will raise awareness and foster grassroots support.

By pursuing these strategies, we can create environments that not only enhance individual wellbeing but also contribute to a more resilient and innovative society, paving the way for a truly brain-positive future.

Designing for Brain Health

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