Engaging the Brain

Panos Mavros, Richard Coyne, Jennifer Roe, Peter Aspinall. The University of Edinburgh

Abstract

We canvas issues in using neural imaging via EEG (electroencephalography) to map human responses to spaces. We describe the technology, some experiments by others relevant to architecture, and two of our own studies. One involves testing EEG as a supplement to user preference studies of urban typologies. The second involves recording the movement and affective (emotional) states of a pedestrian while moving through open spaces in Edinburgh. We produce map overlays of several such walkers as a method of mapping responses to urban spaces. Click here for the full report