Navigating through my passion for design has been a series of unexpected journeys. From the realm of industrial design, I found myself drawn into the world of architecture, and my architectural pursuits seamlessly led me into the captivating realm of photography. Surprisingly, photography then became the bridge that transported me to the intriguing field of neuroscience.

You might be wondering how neuroscience intertwines with architecture, so let me unveil my journey and share the fascinating connection I've discovered in this captivating field of brain science.

Embarking on the Exploration of Neuroscience

In the midst of preparing for my academic journey at Oxford Brookes in 2020, I underwent a significant shift—I moved to a new home. Simultaneously, my photography clientele expanded, prompting the creation of a home office. As the pandemic unfolded, a peculiar observation took root: my photographic compositions seemed to evolve daily. Editing became a perplexing task as I struggled to discern the coherence of my images with the spaces they captured. I vividly recall a particular photoshoot featuring a vibrant set of buildings surrounded by the blossoming beauty of spring. To my surprise, the images appeared dark on one day, and miraculously perfect the next. The question echoed: how could this be possible?

The revelation struck me—my perception of these images was influenced by my emotions, a product of the world's context. The realization that we don't merely see through our eyes but also through the lens of our emotions, shaped by daily experiences, excited me. The world was not static; it was a dynamic interplay of perception and emotion.

When it came time to pitch my research focus to Oxford Brookes, the path was clear—I wanted to delve into the synergy of Neuroscience and Architecture. This decision unraveled yet another revelation: our memories are intricately woven into the spaces we experience. The brain, akin to a video camera, scans and records physical spaces, linking them to our memories. Architects wield the power to shape emotions and memories—an awe-inspiring realization.

During my research at Brookes, a reunion with a former architecture professor reignited my passion and steered me toward exploring healthcare architecture design. Leaving Brookes was a tough decision (check out my blog for more on that), but the desire to delve deeper into neuroscience was undeniable.

Embarking on the Neuroscience Journey

The avenues for studying neuroscience are limited, and the most influential neuroarchitects often don't follow a traditional course. Here's a glimpse into my exploration and the choices I made.

Courses That Captivated Me:

NAAD Master in Italy, with Davide Ruzzon

The scientist overseeing the course was impressive, providing comprehensive information. However, logistical challenges due to my work schedule made this option unfeasible.

Neuroau, Brazil with Andréa de Paiva

Led by Andrea de Paiva, a prominent figure in the field, this course, offered in Portuguese with English subtitles, caught my interest. Unfortunately, a lengthy waiting list prevented my enrollment this year, but I remain hopeful for the future.

Neurarq, Brazil with Gabi Sartori and Priscilla Bencke

Opting for the Neuroarq course, though expensive, proved to be an enriching experience.

The Pros:

The program prioritizes mental health, emphasizing personal healing as a foundation for architectural healing—a truly beautiful approach.

High-quality materials, books, and membership with rich content make the course valuable.

Most lessons are pre-recorded, providing flexibility in learning.

The Cons:

The course is exclusively in Portuguese, limiting its accessibility to a broader audience.

Excessive marketing and social media usage may be perceived negatively, although this is subjective and tailored to the Brazilian market.

Exploring Alternatives:

Apart from structured courses, international conferences and academies present alternative avenues:

Neuroarq Conferences and Academy

ANFA in the USA

Renowned for offering conferences and events worldwide.

Moving Boundaries

A global conference series, offering a great platform for staying updated on the latest in neuroscience.

Embarking on the journey of neuroscience within the realm of architecture has been a thrilling odyssey—one that continues to unfold with each discovery.