The Growing Influence of Environmental Psychology in Architectural Design

The traditional way of conceptualizing cities has drastically changed over time. Today, certain metropolises such as London, Paris, Dubai, Marrakech, Johannesburg, Kigali, and Athens stand out as global cities, dominating the global landscape not only through their economic influence but also through their unique architecture. Our study subscribes to the field of environmental psychology and aims to delve deeply into how urban architecture shapes our mindset, thoughts, emotions, moods, sensations, behaviors, and concentration. The goal is to demonstrate, through a field study, the significant impact that architecture can have on the daily lives of individuals. Much like the technology that defines smart cities through its everyday applications, architecture plays a crucial role in enhancing urban life quality. By incorporating thoughtful design elements and considering the psychological needs of residents, cities can become spaces that are not only more functional but also more inspiring. This research seeks to establish a concrete link between the physical structures of a city and the psychological experiences of its inhabitants. By studying cities with marked and diverse architectural characteristics, we hope to highlight the various ways in which architecture can positively or negatively influence urban life. Thus, the findings of this study could offer valuable insights for future urban development projects, emphasizing the importance of designing spaces that promote mental and emotional well-being.