Beauty and Interest in Architecture

Exploring the Influence of Architectural Complexity on Aesthetics and Behavior in Public Interior Spaces

“Public space has a near-mythical standing in democratic culture and for good reason, It is perceived however vaguely, as essential infrastructure for human flourishing and well-being … .”

Urbonas et al. 2017

Public Space: Lost and Found

This paper draft deals with interest and beauty of public interior spaces, as well as the desire to explore such spaces and to meet someone in them depending on levels of complexity. Public interior spaces, ranging from airports to shopping centers, serve as dynamic arenas for social interaction and engagement. Research highlights their significance in fostering community connections and influencing various aspects of human experience, including mood, cognition, and mental health. Despite advancements in neuroarchitecture research, the precise mechanisms through which these spaces impact individuals remain partially understood. Recent studies explore the role of visual aesthetics, particularly beauty and complexity, in shaping human behavior within architectural environments. While complexity has historically been associated with beauty, its direct connection to behavioral outcomes in public interiors remains unexplored. This research aims to bridge this gap by investigating how architectural complexity influences aesthetic judgments and subsequent behaviors in public interior spaces. Additionally, individual differences, such as personal interest and expertise in architecture, may further shape these responses, highlighting the need for a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between architectural features and human experience.