Discover the NeuroAesthetic House during GLUE 2024: a sensory journey designed to elevate your state of mind

During GLUE 2024, from 19 to 22 September, the NeuroAesthetic House officially launched at Studio 23:23's iconic location on Keizersgracht (651) in Amsterdam. In collaboration with sensorial curator and art-director Justine Kontou the building was transformed into a sensory experience where art, science, and design came together. Bringing together their expertise in design, Neuro-Architecture and sensorial (spatial) experiences, they carefully curated the work of over twentyfive international artists and designers. This partnership intertwined a wide range of disciplines, from art and design to scientific insights; to explore a new approach to architecture and well-being.


A sensory journey through the house
The NeuroAesthetic House takes visitors on a journey through various rooms, each thoughtfully curated to evoke a specific sensory and emotional response. Integrating insights from neuroscience, the house creates a harmonious environment that subtly stimulates the senses. From soft colors to tactile surfaces and soothing scents, every room is designed to promote feelings of calm, creativity, or connection.
The first room evokes wonder and exploration and invites people to slow down. The journey follows into two spaces that are all about reflection and re-connecting with yourself. Next, you can explore a secluded garden with delicate flowers and meditative video work. And finally, you will reach the playful, inviting and creative gathering space to connect with each other and surround yourself with warm vibrant flowers, colors and textures.


All participating designers and artists
Asefeh Tayebani | Claire Begheyn | Coen Derickx | Cooloo | Elements of Interior | Elise Luttik | Groenlab | Ingrid Roos | Leila Gordon | Lucas Zito | More Than Layers | Muhcine Ennou | Naomi Venetiaan | Novel Grey | Pepe Valenti | Philip Thurston | RangeAMS | Ruben de Haas x Moooi Carpets | Sam Griffiths Art | Sara Ricciardi for Visionnaire | Sodalime | SOM Tales of Perfume | Studio A+N | Studio 23:23 | Studio Floris Meijer | TooTheZoo

More information about all participating designers and artists can be found here.


Open to all
From 19 to 22 September, the NeuroAesthetic House was open to visitors during GLUE 2024. Attendees were encouraged to follow their senses throughout the whole house and experience the different rooms, where they could re-connect with themselves, and interact with the present designers and other visitors. The NeuroAesthetic House is the first step toward conscious way of incorporating the principles of neuro-architecture into everyday environments.
"Our goal with this exhibition is to allow people to personally experience the positive effects of carefully curated spaces that combine art, design, and natural elements. Through this collaboration with GLUE, we have a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate to a wide audience how spatial elements can enhance well-being in daily life," says Justine Kontou.

Address: Studio 23:23, Keizersgracht 651, Amsterdam
Opening hours: 19 September 11:00 -21:00, 20 - 21 September 11:00 - 20:00, 22 September 11:00 – 18:00
Entrance: free


The Science Behind Neuro-Architecture
Neuroaesthetics, the study of how art and design affect the brain and emotions, is central to this exhibition. Neuro-architecture, the study of how brain activity interacts with the built environment, is a relatively new but rapidly growing field. Research shows that the design of spaces can affect our brains in ways that go beyond conscious thought. For example, studies have shown that natural elements such as greenery in hospital environments can significantly reduce the amount of painkillers asked by the patients. Organic forms and curves can reduce stress and improve mood, whereas by seeing sharp corners or pointy objects automatically our neurons send signals to our motor cortex to avoid approaching the object. Additionally, specific colors can enhance cognitive performance and improve focus. The intersection of neuroscience and architecture, focuses on the influence of the built environment on the human brain and its response to the built environment. The most important contribution of the collaboration between neuroscience and architecture is creating an understanding not only of the conscious but also of the subconscious and unconscious tendencies of human beings which are innate, idiosyncratic, and inherited from our evolutionary past.
“This collaboration between science and art demonstrates that our built environment has a direct impact on our subconscious,” says Studio 23:23. “At the NeuroAesthetic House, we invite visitors to discover the power of well-considered design and how architecture can enhance well-being.”


Joyful opening event
On Thursday 19 September from 18:00 - 21:00 a joyful opening event will be held at the NeuroAesthetic House. While enjoying music and a drink, visitors can indulge in the sensory experience and connect with the designers, artists, and scientists. Registration is available here.


About Studio 23:23
At Studio 23:23, Carmen en Sander create light designs where forms are carefully studied to naturally captivate people’s attention, attracting them to the designs and allowing them to leave behind environmental stressors. Each shape is unique and the result of in-depth research, blending 3D printing with hand-sanding techniques using earth-covering materials. Carmen has a background in neuroscience and product design. This year she started a PhD in Human Building Interaction at the 4TU and as extra a Post-Master in Rome in Neuroesthethics. Sander has had an adventurous career in filmmaking and has traveled the world for stunning film shoots. He is their critical eye, capturing everything beautifully on camera, and has immense knowledge of the value of light.

About Justine Kontou
Sensorial curator Justine Kontou crafts immersive spatial experiences and sensorial exhibitions that elevate well-being and mindfulness. At the core of Kontou's work is the holistic fusion of mindful design, natural elements, and art, all aimed at stimulating the senses. Drawing on principles of biophilic design and neuroaesthetics, Kontou uses nature as a profound source of inspiration, translating its restorative and calming qualities into cohesive spatial experiences. Her work is designed to enhance both the physical and mental states of those who engage with it, bringing heightened sensory awareness into everyday life.


Photos by N/ J Studio, Nick Bookelaar & Ilco Kemmere