Have you ever walked into a room and instantly felt uncomfortable or uneasy, without being able to pinpoint why? Chances are, it's because of the isovist – a term used in architecture to describe the visibility of a point in space. Isovists are crucial in designing spaces that are both visually stimulating and functional, as they impact our ability to read and process information in our surroundings.
The concept of isovist is rooted in our biological makeup – as humans, we have an innate need for both visibility and protection. In their book Neurodesign, neuroscientist Katarina Gospic and neuro designer Isabelle Sjövall explain how the brain craves an environment that challenges it just enough, offering both good visibility and the availability of more sheltered corners with less visibility.
This explains why we are drawn to certain parts of a room and seek out hiding places or private areas. It also sheds light on why interior designers caution against positioning furniture so that someone has to sit with their back to the door, or placing the head of the bed at the door end of the bedroom. These are areas with low isovist, which our brains perceive as potentially unsafe or uncomfortable.
Picture from researchgate.net
In today's open-plan layouts, it can be challenging to follow the isovist theory when placing furniture. However, there are ways to incorporate the concept into your design. One solution is to angle furniture in different ways so that the majority of seats in an arrangement of sofa and chairs, or the chairs at a dining table, do not face away from a doorway or passage.
Another solution is to create nooks with the help of low bookcases, houseplants, and other decorative elements. These areas offer a sense of privacy and protection while still being connected to the overall space.
In summary, isovist is a crucial factor in designing spaces that are both visually stimulating and functional. By understanding the science behind optimal sight lines and visibility, architects and designers can create environments that cater to our biological needs and offer a sense of comfort and safety.