Perception, emotion, and behavior in in-between spaces: a neuroarchitectural approach to climate neutrality

The paper investigates how architectural and spatial design can influence perception, cognition, and emotion, thereby shaping sustainable behavior. The study examines how in-between spaces—transitional, and often overlooked environments, such as courtyards, atria, plazas, pocket parks, and pedestrian streets—can act as catalysts of pro-environmental action. Drawing on advances in neuroscience, environmental psychology, and environmental technological design, a conceptual framework links spatial features, multisensory perception, neural activation, affective states, and behavioral outcomes. In-between spaces are shown to function as cognitive and emotional interfaces that enhance social interaction, biophilic engagement, and behavioral nudging toward practices such as active mobility, recycling, resource sharing, and reduced energy use. The paper argues that sustainability should be understood not only as a technical or ecological objective, but as a lived and perceptual phenomenon embedded in everyday spatial experience. Ultimately, in-between spaces emerge as strategic thresholds for fostering resilience, well-being, and climate-conscious urban life.