All Issue

2025 Vol.36, Issue 2 Preview Page

Research Article

A Review of fMRI Empirical Studies on Architectural Space Characteristics and Users’ Emotional and Behavioral Responses

건축 공간의 특성과 사용자의 감정 및 행동 반응에 관한 fMRI 실증연구 문헌고찰

Ji-Yeon Yoo1
,
Da-Eun Lee1
,
Yi-Kyung Hong2
,
Ji Young Cho3
유 지연1
,
이 다은1
,
홍 이경2
,
조 지영3
1정회원(주저자), 경희대학교 주거환경학과, 학부생
2정회원(공동저자), 경희대학교 주거환경학과 연구교수, 이학박사
3정회원(교신저자), 경희대학교 주거환경학과 고령서비스테크융합전공 교수
Corresponding AuthorJi Young Cho, Department of Housing & Interior Design, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemin-gu, Seoul, 02447, Korea. E-mail: jcho@khu.ac.kr
25 April 2025. pp. 061-074
PDF XML Citation
Abstract

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is a useful tool that can identify activated brain regions due to increased blood flow. This study aims to identify the characteristics and status of fMRI studies in the field of architecture and suggest how it can be used to identify users’ emotional and behavioral responses. A total of 10 international journal papers and proceedings that used architectural space as stimuli and human emotional or behavioral responses using fMRI were analyzed in terms of procedure and research design method, and experimental results from the perspective of Stimuli-Organism-Response theory. The characteristics of architectural space and the effects on human emotional and behavioral responses were analyzed based on brain responses. The results are as follows: (1) fMRI can be combined with surveys or interviews for a holistic understanding of human responses; (2) curved spaces are preferred over straight spaces and elicit positive emotions; (3) open and pleasant spaces elicit an approach response, while closed spaces elicit an avoidance response; and (4) women are more sensitive to comfort spaces than men, and their brains are more activated when viewing unpleasant spaces. This study highlights the usability and usefulness of fMRI in providing empirical indicators for human-centered design and evidence-based design.

Keywords
fMRI
Emotion
Indoor
Architecture
키워드
기능적 자기공명영상
감정
실내
건축
References
1

Asan Medical Center (n.d). Brain. Retrieved from https://www.amc.seoul.kr/asan/healthinfo/body/bodyDetail.do?bodyId=15

2

Asan Medical Center (n.d). Cerebellum. Retrieved from https://www.amc.seoul.kr/asan/mobile/healthinfo/body/bodyDetail.do?bodyId=144&partId=B000007

3

Asan Medical Center (n.d). Thalamus. Retrieved from https://www.amc.seoul.kr/asan/mobile/healthinfo/body/bodyDetail.do?bodyId=146&partId=B000007

4

Baxter, M. G., & Murray, E. A. (2002). The amygdala and reward. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 3(7), 563-573.

10.1038/nrn87512094212
5

Bermudez, J., Krizaj, D., Lipschitz, D. L., Bueler, C. E., Rogowska, J., Yurgelun-Todd, D., & Nakamura, Y. (2017). Externally-induced meditative states: an exploratory fMRI study of architects' responses to contemplative architecture. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 6(2), 123-136.

10.1016/j.foar.2017.02.002
6

Britannica (2024). Limbic system. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/limbic-system

7

Bullinger, H. J., Bauer, W., Wenzel, G., & Blach R. (2010). Towards user centred design (ucd) in architecture based on immersive virtual environments. Computers In Industry, 61(4), 372-379.

10.1016/j.compind.2009.12.003
8

Cai, Y. Q. (2018). Brain circuits mediating opposing effects on emotion and pain. The Journal of Neuroscience : The Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 38(28), 6340-6349.

10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2780-17.201829941444PMC6041794
9

Choi, H. S., Bruyns, G., Zhang, W., Cheng, T., & Sharma, S. (2024). How can we measure human cognition and emotion for human centric design in interior urban spaces?. DRS2024: Boston, 23-28 June (pp.1-17), Boston, USA.

10

Chung, S. C., Sohn, J. Hun., Choi, M. H., Lee, S. J., Yang, J. W., & Lee, B. Y. (2009). An fmri study on the cerebellar lateralization during visuospatial and verbal tasks. Korean Society for Emotion and Sensibility, 12(4), 425-432.

11

Coburn, A., Vartanian, O., Kenett, Y. N., Nadal, M., ... Chatterjee, A. (2020). Psychological and neural responses to architectural interiors. Cortex, 126, 217-241.

10.1016/j.cortex.2020.01.00932092492
12

Connaughton, M., O'Hanlon, E., Silk, T. J., Paterson, J., ... McGrath, J. (2024). The limbic system in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a longitudinal structural magnetic resonance imaging analysis. Biological Psychiatry Global Open Science, 4(1), 385-393.

10.1016/j.bpsgos.2023.10.00538298776PMC10829648
13

Donovan, R. J., & Rossiter, J. R. (1982). Store atmosphere: an environmental psychology approach. Journal of Retailing, 58, 34-57.

14

Etkin, A., Egner, T., & Kalisch, R. (2011). Emotional processing in anterior cingulate and medial prefrontal cortex. Trends In Cognitive Sciences, 15(2), 85-93.

10.1016/j.tics.2010.11.00421167765PMC3035157
15

Gang, M. Y., Song, B. K., & Han M. S. (2022). Research trend and application for dementia using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Journal of the Korean Magnetics Society, 32(5), 206-211.

10.4283/JKMS.2022.32.5.206
16

Han, Y. Soo., & Han, M. S. (2022). Clinical application of functional magnetic resonance imaging. Journal of the Korean Magnetics Society, 32(5), 200-205.

10.4283/JKMS.2022.32.5.200
17

Henley. C. (2021). Foundations of neuroscience. Michigan State University Libraries.

18

Institute for Basic Science (2023). Compass, brain that recognize emotions. Retrieved from https://www.ibs.re.kr/cop/bbs/BBSMSTR_000000000901/selectBoardArticle.do?nttId=16124&utm_source=chatgpt.com

19

Jeong, J. S. (2014). Neuroarcitecture. Journal of Environmental Studies, 53, 58-62.

20

Kang, M. K., & Hong, K. S. (2021). Application of deep learning techniques to diagnose mild cognitive impairment: functional near-infrared spectroscopy study. The 21st International Conference on Control, Automation and System (pp. 2036-2040), Jeju, Korea.

10.23919/ICCAS52745.2021.9650036
21

Khaleghimoghaddam, N. (2022). Objectiv exploration of the effects of architectural components on users' spatial evaluation: A neuroimaging approach. ICONARP International Journal of Architecture and Planning, 10(2), 428-443.

10.15320/ICONARP.2022.209
22

Khaleghimoghaddam, N. (2024a). A neurological examination of gender differences in architectural perception. Architectural Science Review, 67(4), 281-290.

10.1080/00038628.2023.2264822
23

Khaleghimoghaddam, N. (2024b). Analysis of the brain's responses to the approach-avoidance behavior in architectural experience. Psihologija, 57(3), 287-305.

10.2298/PSI220707007K
24

Khaleghimoghaddam, N., Bala, H. A., Özmen, G., & Öztürk, Ş. (2022). Neuroscience and architecture: What does the brain tell to an emotional experience of architecture via a functional MR study?. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 11(5), 877-890.

10.1016/j.foar.2022.02.007
25

Kim, G. S., Han, M. R., & Bak, B. G. (2017). A fmri meta-analysis on neuroimaging studies of basic emotions. Science of Emotion and Sensibility, 20(4), 15-30.

10.14695/KJSOS.2017.20.4.15
26

Kim, G. W., Song, J. K., & Jeong, G. W. (2011). Neuro-anatomical evaluation of human suitability for rural and urban environment by using fmri. Progress in Medical Physics, 22(1), 18-27.

27

Kim, H. H. (2015). Toward a key-frame automatic extraction method for video storyboard surrogates based on users' eeg signals and discriminant analysis. Journal of the Korean Society for Information Management, 32(3), 377-396.

10.3743/KOSIM.2015.32.3.377
28

Kim, M. S., Cho, S. S., & Kwon, J. S. (2000). The effect of immediate and delayed recognition memory on event-related potential (erp). Korean Journal of Cognitive Science. 11(3･4), 83-93.

10.1016/S0926-6410(01)00011-811339988
29

Kim, N. Y. (2023). Unraveling the potential of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fnirs) in spatial design - literature review and future research agenda. Journal of the Korean Institute of Interior Design, 32(6), 107-116.

10.14774/JKIID.2023.32.6.107
30

Kim, S., & Ha, M. (2022). An EEG analysis of the effects of color and ceiling height on the perceived restorativeness of users. Journal of the Architectural Institute of Korea, 38(2), 62-74.

31

Kim, Y. H. (2001). Research on brain function using functional mri. Journal of the Korean Society of Encephalograph, 1(1), 65-76.

32

Lee, H. J. (2008). Functional neuroimaging in neuro-otology. Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg, 51(4), 302-311.

33

Lee, H. J., Choi, Y. R., & Chum, C. Y. (2012). Effect of indoor air temperature on the occupants' Attention ability based on the electroencephalogram analysis. Journal of the Architectural Institute of Korea Planning & Design, 28(3), 217-225.

34

Lee, S. A., Lee, J. J., Han, J., Choi, M., Wager, T. D., & Woo, C. W. (2024). Brain representations of affective valence and intensity in sustained pleasure and pain. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 121(25), 1-10.

10.1073/pnas.231043312138857402PMC11194486
35

Lee, W., & Yang, H. (2022). A study on the intention to use personal mobility services: focused on the sor(stimulus-organism-response) model, Information Systems Review, 24(2), 67-88.

10.14329/isr.2022.24.2.067
36

Lee, Y. H. (2009). Functional study of the human brain using MEG. Communications of the Korean Institute of Information Scientists and Engineers, 27(4), 50-57.

37

Lee, Y. J. (2023). Investigation and systematic review of quantitative electroencephalography (qeeg) in alzheimer's disease. Master's Thesis, Cheongju University. Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Korea.

38

Lim, M. Y. (2024). Quantification and analysis of food-related cognition using electroencephalography (eeg). Food Science and Industry, 57(3), 282-294.

10.23093/FSI.2024.57.3.282
39

Malezieux, M., Klein, A. S., & Gogolla, N. (2023). Neural circuits for emotion. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 46(1), 211-231.

10.1146/annurev-neuro-111020-10331436917821
40

Mehrabian, A., & Russell, J. A. (1974). An approach to environmental psychology. The MIT Press.

41

Naghavi, H. R., & Nyberg, L. (2005). Common fronto-parietal activity in attention, memory, and consciousness: shared demands on integration?. Conscious Cogn, 14(2), 390-425.

10.1016/j.concog.2004.10.00315950889
42

Neugebauer, V. (2015). Amygdala pain mechanisms. Handb Exp Pharmacol. 227. 261-284.

10.1007/978-3-662-46450-2_1325846623PMC4701385
43

Park, S. H., Park, J. S., Hwang, N. R., Kwon, S. H., & Kwon, Y. J. (2019). An exploration of the brain study through A practical measurement and application using f-nirs in educational research. Brain, Digital, & Learning, 9(3), 213-231.

10.31216/BDL.2019.9.3.213
44

Phan, K. L., Wager, T., Taylor, S. F., & Liberzon, I. (2002). Functional neuroanatomy of emotion: a meta-analysis of emotion activation studies in pet and fmri. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 26(3), 331-348.

10.1006/nimg.2002.108712030820
45

Psychiatricnews (2024). How are the brain and emotions connected? brain that feels. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatricnews.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=35053

46

Sanaeifar, F., Pourranjbar, S., Pourranjbar, M., Ramezani, S., Mehr, S. R., Wadan, A. H. S., & Khazeifard, F. (2024). Beneficial effects of physical exercise on cognitive-behavioral impairments and brain-derived neurotrophic factor alteration in the limbic system induced by neurodegeneration. Experimental Gerontology, 195, 1-12

10.1016/j.exger.2024.11253939116955
47

Song, J. J. (2016). Functional neuroimaging in neuro-otology. Research in Vestibular Science, 15(1), 5-10.

48

Telecommunications Technology Association (2023). Spatial Resolution. Retrieved from http://www.ktword.co.kr/test/view/view.php?no=4087

49

The Science Times (2019). Identifying how memory information in the brain's hippocampus is classified. Retrieved from https://www.sciencetimes.co.kr/nscvrg/view/menu/251?searchCategory=223&nscvrgSn=199540

50

Vartanian, O., Navarrete, G., Chatterjee, A., Fich, L. B., ... Skov, M. (2015). Architectural design and the brain: Effects of ceiling height and perceived enclosure on beauty judgments and approach-avoidance decisions. Journal of environmental psychology, 41, 10-18.

10.1016/j.jenvp.2014.11.006
51

Vartanian, O., Navarrete, G., Chatterjee, A., Fich, L. B., ... Skov, M. (2013). Impact of contour on aesthetic judgments and approach-avoidance decisions in architecture. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Vol. 110, No. supplement_2 (pp. 10446-10453), Irvine, USA.

10.1073/pnas.130122711023754408PMC3690611
52

Vartanian, O., Navarrete, G., Palumbo, L., & Chatterjee, A. (2021). Individual differences in preference for architectural interiors. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 77, 1-10

10.1016/j.jenvp.2021.101668
53

Wang, J., Zhan, L., Dai, A., Dewancker, B. J., & Gao, W. (2024). Influence of architectural interior design on human perception and emotion with the consideration of neural aesthetics. Indoor and Built Environment, 33(8), 1486-1501.

10.1177/1420326X241247218
54

Wicker, B., Keysers, C., Plailly, J., Royet, J. P., Gallese, V., & Rizzolatti, G. (2003). Both of us disgusted in my insula: the common neural basis of seeing and feeling disgust. Neuron, 40(3), 655-664.

10.1016/S0896-6273(03)00679-2
55

You, J. S., Bae, S. H., Ryoo, C. H., & Park, M. C. (2022). A study on the effect of rectangular proportions on memory-focused on fmri demonstration. Journal of Communication Design, 81, 53-65.

10.25111/jcd.2022.81.04
56

Zhang, N., Liu, C., Li, J., Hou, K., Shi, J., & Gao, W. (2024). A comprehensive review of research on indoor cognitive performance using electroencephalogram technology. Building and Environment, 257, 1-20.

10.1016/j.buildenv.2024.111555
Information
  • Publisher :The Korean Housing Association
  • Publisher(Ko) :한국주거학회
  • Journal Title :Journal of the Korean Housing Association
  • Journal Title(Ko) :한국주거학회논문집
  • Volume : 36
  • No :2
  • Pages :061-074
  • Received Date : 2025-01-31
  • Revised Date : 2025-03-11
  • Accepted Date : 2025-03-20
  • DOI :https://doi.org/10.6107/JKHA.2025.36.2.061
Journal Informaiton Journal of the Korean Housing Association Journal of the Korean Housing Association
Archives
: the Korean Housing Association
  • NRF
  • KOFST
  • crossref crossmark
  • crossref cited-by
  • crosscheck
  • orcid
Journal Informaiton Journal Informaiton - close