ANFA NYC: A Neuroethical Architecture

Abstract

Our environments have a direct effect on our wellbeing. Science is starting to focus on the human brain and tell us why this is the case. This thesis concerns the integration of the neurosciences with architectural design. It is the stance of this thesis that architects have the responsibility to address the cognitive effects of the environments which they design in an effort to combat the so-called ‘diseases of civilization’.

The chosen site, South Point Park on Roosevelt Island in New York City, is proposed to be developed as a NeuroArchitecture research incubator, providing interested groups a place to study the consilience of neuroscience and architecture. Research will be applied through four venues: The chosen site and landscape, a NeuroArchitecture Incubator, Blackwell Tower, and the ruin of a mid-19th Century Smallpox Hospital.