Neuroarchitecture and spatial stress: a bibliometric mapping and methodological gap analysis (2000–2025)


Yazıcı B., BİRER E.

Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, AHCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/13467581.2026.2635215
  • Journal Name: Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Arts and Humanities Citation Index (AHCI), Scopus, Compendex, Index Islamicus, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Keywords: bibliometric analysis, Neuroarchitecture, spatial experience, spatial movement, stress
  • Istanbul Kültür University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Architectural design today is shaped not only by aesthetics and functionality but also by user perception and emotional responses. Accurately defining the relationship between environment and individual is essential for improving perceptual quality and creating user-oriented spaces. This study explores the relationship between spatial stress and human movement while identifying methodological shortcomings in experimental research. Publications indexed in Web of Science and Scopus between 2000 and 2025 were reviewed, and 12 studies were analyzed in depth using Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny in R-Studio. The analysis included annual publication trends, citation averages, leading journals, authors, countries, and keyword distributions. Additionally, the preliminary study provided initial observations on movement patterns emerging under a stressful environmental condition, offering important insights into users’ behavioral responses within controlled spatial settings. Findings underline the scarcity of empirical studies that integrate physiological measurements for evaluating stress within built environments. By emphasizing these methodological gaps, the study highlights the need for comprehensive approaches that combine behavioral data and environmental variables. Such integration is crucial for advancing design strategies that support user well-being and contributes to the broader understanding of environmental effects within neuroarchitecture.