Dr. Anjan Chatterjee is a neurologist and cognitive neuroscientist who has dedicated over three decades to exploring the connection between the human brain and the world around us. 

A professor of neurology, psychology, and architecture at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Chatterjee is also the founding director of the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics, where he leads groundbreaking research into how beauty, aesthetics, and the built environment influence our brain and behavior.

With a remarkable career that spans scientific discovery, educational leadership, and architectural innovation, Dr. Chatterjee is a true pioneer in understanding how the spaces we inhabit shape our experiences. 

His research reveals that our brains are not merely passive observers of beauty, but active participants in how we perceive and interact with the world. Dr. Chatterjee’s work on embodied cognition and neuroarchitecture highlights the power of the environments we create - not just for functionality, but for their ability to foster well-being, connection, and joy.

In his book The Aesthetic Brain: How We Evolve to Desire Beauty and Enjoy Art, Dr. Chatterjee shares his insights into how our brain’s neural responses to beauty have evolved and how these responses continue to affect our daily lives. He has shown that the same areas of the brain that respond to basic pleasures like eating and sex are also activated when we experience the beauty of architecture, art, and design, opening up new pathways for understanding how our environments influence our mental and emotional health.

His innovative research into biophilia and neuroarchitecture explores how elements like light, nature, and sensory complexity can be harnessed to create environments that help individuals thrive; whether in a home, workplace, or healthcare setting.

Through his work, Dr. Chatterjee has inspired countless individuals across disciplines to rethink how we design the spaces we occupy. He encourages us to create environments that foster a sense of connection, beauty, and belonging, because when we feel safe, comfortable, and inspired by the spaces around us, we are more open to connecting with others and living fuller, richer lives.

Key Takeaways 

1. Our Environment Shapes Our Brain – The spaces we inhabit directly influence our emotions, behavior, and well-being. 

2. Beauty is a Biological Necessity – Our brains are wired to seek beauty because it’s linked to survival and pleasure. Surround yourself with beauty (whether in art, architecture, or nature) and let it fuel your sense of joy and fulfillment.

3. Design for Connection – Spaces that foster connection and a sense of belonging can transform our relationships and our sense of self. Create or seek out environments that invite open, authentic interactions and help you feel grounded.

4. Embrace the Power of Curves – Nature’s curves offer a sense of harmony and peace. Incorporate natural elements like rounded shapes and organic forms into your space to enhance comfort and reduce stress.

5. Hominess is a Sense of Belonging – The most powerful spaces are those where we feel like we belong. Whether at home, work, or in a community, seek out or design places that make you feel seen, valued, and accepted.

Quotes

1. "Our brains are not passive observers of beauty; they are active participants in how we perceive and connect with the world. Surround yourself with beauty - it shapes who you are."

2. "Design spaces that invite connection and make people feel at home. When we feel safe and welcomed, we open up and create meaningful relationships."

Connect with Dr. Chatterjee 

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anjan-chatterjee-4131734

Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/anjan58/

X - https://twitter.com/Anjan435

Website -  https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=nTyY6W0AAAAJ&hl=en