What is Emotional Design and How Does It Influence Our Perception of Space?

Emotional design transforms spaces into experiences, shaping how we feel and interact with the built environment. 

Discover how architecture and design connect with our emotions.

Can We Design Emotions?

Have you ever walked into a space and felt an immediate sense of calm? Or entered a room and suddenly felt overwhelmed without knowing why? Architecture is not just about walls and structures—it’s about how we experience space.

I have always been fascinated by how spaces shape us. Some places make us feel safe, others make us feel inspired, and some even make us feel small. This is the essence of emotional design: the idea that every detail in a space—light, texture, form, and sound—can shape our emotions, consciously or unconsciously.

As a designer, I don’t just think about how a space looks—I think about how it feels. How does a curved wall change the way we move? How does the play of light alter our mood? And more importantly, how can we design for emotions rather than just aesthetics?

Cave on the Moon | Lucia Silva Studio

The Science Behind Emotional Design

Spaces influence our neuroscience more than we realize. Research in neuroarchitecture shows that different design elements affect the brain’s perception of comfort, security, and creativity.

• Lighting & Mood: Warm lighting evokes relaxation, while cool lighting enhances focus.

• Textures & Memory: Rough textures feel raw and natural, while smooth surfaces give a futuristic or minimalistic sensation.

• Form & Movement: Curved, organic spaces feel inviting and fluid, while rigid, angular designs often feel structured and imposing.

We don’t just see a space—we sense it. Our brain processes architecture the same way it processes music, art, or storytelling. It’s not just about what we observe, but how it makes us feel.

Virtual Environment | Lucia Silva Studio

Emotional Architecture: Spaces That Speak to Us

Think of the last space that truly moved you. Was it a cathedral with towering ceilings? A minimalist gallery where silence itself was part of the experience? Or perhaps a cozy, dimly lit café that felt like home?

1.Sensory-Driven Design

The best spaces don’t just look beautiful—they activate all our senses.

• Sound: Acoustics influence how we feel inside a space. A quiet meditation room creates serenity, while a bustling, echo-filled hall can create excitement or anxiety.

• Temperature: Cool stone floors in a summer home feel refreshing, while soft textiles in a bedroom create a sense of warmth and safety.

• Scent: The smell of wood, sea breeze, or rain hitting the pavement all evoke memories and emotions deeply rooted in our subconscious.

Example: The use of natural materials like limestone or unfinished wood makes a space feel grounded and timeless, while glass and metallic surfaces give a futuristic, digital aesthetic.

2.The Power of Light & Shadow

Light isn’t just functional—it tells a story. A soft glow can make a space feel intimate, while harsh white lighting can create a sense of sterility. Shadows shape how we perceive depth and movement.

Example: In sacred spaces, architects often use light to create a feeling of transcendence—like the way sunlight filters through a vaulted ceiling or reflects off a smooth stone wall.

3.Emotional Design in Digital Spaces

If emotions are tied to physical spaces, can we design emotion in a digital world?

With VR, AI, and the metaverse, we are no longer limited by materials or physical constraints. This means we can create entirely new emotional experiences:

• Spaces that shift color based on your emotions.

• Environments that react to your movement and energy.

• Digital textures that mimic real-world sensations, enhancing the feeling of a virtual space.

Example: Imagine entering a virtual meditation room where the walls breathe with you, adapting to your breath rhythm to enhance relaxation. This is the future of emotional design in architecture.

Virtual Space | Lucia Silva Studio

The Future of Emotional Design

Architecture is no longer static. With advancements in technology, we can design spaces that are interactive, fluid, and deeply personal. The line between physical and digital is disappearing, and the way we experience architecture is evolving.

For me, emotional design is not just a concept—it’s the core of my creative process. It’s what drives my approach to digital architecture, immersive spaces, and neuroarchitecture. Every line, every texture, and every transition between light and shadow is an opportunity to evoke something deeper.

But here’s the real question: Can we create digital spaces that feel as emotionally powerful as real ones?

How do you feel inside your favorite space? What emotions does it evoke? Let’s discuss in the comments!