The Human Toll: How Modern Architecture Stresses Body, Mind, and Emotions Modern architecture’s sleek surfaces hide a darker truth: it can harm us. Studies in neuroarchitecture and environmental psychology reveal how our built environment shapes our physiology, mental health, and emotions. Let’s explore these effects, backed by research and real-world examples. 1. The Body: Physical Stress and New Disorders Modern buildings often prioritize form over function, creating environments that strain our bodies. For instance, glass-heavy designs trap heat, requiring constant air conditioning, which dries out skin and eyes and increases respiratory issues (World Health Organization, 2009). Poor ventilation in sealed buildings leads to “sick building syndrome,” with symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and allergies (EPA, 2021). Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) refers to a situation in which occupants of a building experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time sp...