Homes with Purpose: How Interiors Shape Behaviour and Belonging

The science: how neuroaesthetics backs up what we already know intuitively—design shapes lives.

In Part 1, we explored why biophilic design matters—how even small, nature-led changes can transform spaces for wellbeing. Part 2 delved into sensory awareness—showing how the right texture, light, and layout (at 10%, 40%, or 80% sensory engagement) can tailor homes to feel emotionally supportive. 

Now, let’s close the loop with Article 3, grounded in science: using neuroaesthetics to understand why spaces shape how we feel—and how that can be applied in practice.

 The Science Behind “Feeling at Home”

Neuroaesthetics is the study of how our brains respond to aesthetic and sensory stimuli. It tells us that interiors don’t just look a certain way, they actively influence our emotions, behaviour, and sense of belonging.

When we experience beauty through natural light, soft curves, or harmonious shapes, our brain’s reward centres (tied to reward and decision-making) switch on. These brain regions trigger the release of dopamine, often called the “reward hormone,” which boosts pleasure, motivation, and even resilience.

Curved, organic forms also calm the brain’s stress centre, helping reduce tension. Exposure to natural light works with our body’s internal clock, the system that regulates sleep and energy, which in turn supports sharper focus, better mood, and overall wellbeing. Add in layered textures and warm, familiar tones, and the brain may release oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” strengthening feelings of comfort and belonging.

Put simply: when interiors are designed with intention, they do more than shelter us. They actively support our nervous system, making us feel calmer, safer, and more connected.

What the Science Shows

Research has already shown:

• Light, curves, and gentle textures can activate pleasure centres, reduce stress, and improve focus.

• Natural light and outdoor views consistently trigger calmer stress responses across hospitals, offices, and homes alike. If there’s one architectural shift I’d campaign for, it would be lowering window sills wherever possible—lifting barriers to let more light in.

• Neuroaesthetic design helps release dopamine and oxytocin, enhancing comfort, connection, and a sense of belonging.

Our emotional bond with our homes is more than comfort—it’s a buffer for mental health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people who felt attached to their homes reported significantly lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Place attachment has been linked to identity, security, and personal growth.

But here’s the challenge: many clients don’t know where to begin. They can struggle to describe values, preferences, or the kind of sensory environment that makes them feel most at ease. That’s where design guidance matters—listening, interpreting, and turning those unspoken needs into tangible choices.

Why This Matters for Homes

Our homes are more than functional shells. They are emotional anchors. When tailored to specific needs, they lighten the load of daily life. A well-designed laundry room that saves time, or a reading corner that offers escape, isn’t just practical—it nurtures emotional wellbeing.

Neuroaesthetics helps us understand why these touches matter. A colour palette that feels safe, textures that invite curiosity, or lighting that regulates mood—these aren’t luxuries. They are ways of creating positive homes, places that restore us rather than drain us.

Tying It All Together

This trilogy—Biophilic Design, Sensory Awareness, and Neuroaesthetics—forms the foundation of my approach:

• Why biophilic design matters – natural, life-supporting design that restores balance.

• Why sensory awareness matters – a flexible 10–40–80% scale to match sensory preferences.

• How neuroaesthetics supports us – the science behind why calming, engaging, supportive environments transform how we feel.

Your home isn’t just walls and furniture. It’s a space that shapes how you feel, behave, and connect with others. By blending nature-led design, sensory awareness, and neuroscience, we can create homes that really care for the people inside them.

Thank you for reading. I’d love to keep this conversation open so we can learn from each other. Why not book a call? If there’s a topic you’d like me to cover, or if you simply fancy a chat, please do reach out. I’m always up for a good discussion.

Jana 🥬