Study explores why high ceilings are popular

Real-estate listings usually include high ceilings as an amenity. This makes sense, as research has shown that home buyers tend to prefer homes above the standard eight-foot ceiling.

A recent study done by a team from the University of Toronto-Scarborough (UTS), who revealed to us recently why the human brain prefers curvy buildings, also explored why high ceilings are desirable.

Led by psychologist Oshin Vartanian of the UTS found that our brains tie high ceilings to a psychological sense of freedom, Fast Company reports.

In addition, the team also looked at the brain activity of research subjects who were placed under a neuroimaging scanner as they reviewed pictures of interiors. They found that the majority of respondents labeled a space with high ceilings as “beautiful.”

“Such rooms promote visuospatial exploration,” Vartanian told Fast Company. “At the same time they prompt us to think more freely. This could be a rather potent combination for inducing positive feelings.”

Fast Company has the full report.

The Portland, Ore., City Council recently voted unanimously to require all new residential and mixed-use buildings to be ready for electric vehicle charging. The move amends Portland’s zoning laws to require all new multi-dwelling and mixed-use development of five or more units with onsite parking to provide electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Morrow High School Ellenwood, Georgia, by Perkins and Will The curving, S-shaped classroom building follows the ridge that runs across the greenfield site, reducing impact on its wetlands.

K-12 Schools | Feb 18, 2023

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First Americans Museum (FAM) in Oklahoma City

Museums | Feb 17, 2023

First Americans Museum uses design metaphors of natural elements to honor native worldview

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J. Brett Blanton was the 12th Architect of the Capitol, serving 2020-2023. Photo: AOC.gov

Architects | Feb 17, 2023

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High-rise Construction | Feb 15, 2023

Bjarke Ingels' 'leaning towers' concept wins Qianhai Prisma Towers design competition

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Senior Living Design | Feb 15, 2023

Passive House affordable senior housing project opens in Boston

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Designers | Feb 13, 2023

Hoffmann Architects + Engineers Establishes Diversity Advancement Scholarship Fund

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Smyrna Ready Mix corporate headquarters EOA Architects DRP Construction Photo courtesy EOA Architects

Office Buildings | Feb 12, 2023

Smyrna Ready Mix’s new office HQ mimics the patterns in the company’s onsite stone quarry

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