Neural representation of different 3D architectural images: An EEG study

Abstract

Neuro-architecture seeks to define and better understand the relationships between our psychological state and the artificial structures in which we spend most of our time, and incorporate that insight into the design. However, little is known about the subjective judgment of real architectural models and the cognitive processes involved in aesthetic appreciation of architecture. In the present study, we used real and computer-designed images of bedrooms to address the underlying neural representations of different images of the same object. Thirteen participants were asked to judge the arousal and valence of their own emotional experiences after viewing each image. Furthermore, we used EEG recordings to study the regions of the brain involved in the processing of both types of images. Our results show that there are significant differences in the brain processing of both types of images, especially at early stages, and suggest that realistic images are more pleasurable, which could influence aesthetic judgment. These results emphasise the importance of generating familiar, realistic and recognisable images to improve people’s acceptance.