A Formula to Make Your Occupant’s Architectural Memories Last

Image Credit: szeke | Flickr

Did you know that there is memory bias? That is, memory can be changed, boosted, or impaired. So, if this is the case: What makes building occupants form stronger architectural memories than others?

Well, according to a Memory Bias article in Science Daily, there are many ways that memory bias can occur – but there are three main aspects. They are humor, positivity, and self-generated memories. Each of these latter aspects can boost memory in people. So, with this, I wonder how these play a role in architectural design.

After all, there are times where a design can be funny (or fun). There are times when a design can accentuate the positive over the negative. And there are times when a design can help an occupant self-generate information to remember through the act of engaging with them more interactively. So, does it then become safe to assume that architecture that does these things will be more memorable? And memorable at the exact moment where these memory boosters occur?

As you design, you should ask yourself how your occupants are likely to remember your building and their experiences there after they have left. Are there places within your building where it is fun? Positive? Or engaging?

Thus, to design and build a memorable building you may want to strive for those three goals: a design that is fun, positive, and engaging. Your building will likely be more enjoyable to experience, will function better, and will leave a longer lasting impression on your occupants. And of course, a great reason to be concerned with leaving an impression upon your occupants is that it can be one of value, that brings them benefit well after they have left your building.

So, remember: Fun + Positive + Engaging = Memory Boost

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