Exploring the Intersection of Neuroscience and Architecture in WeWork Spaces

Stephanie Park's presentation at ANFA delves into the innovative integration of neuroscience and architecture within WeWork's design philosophy. The talk covers WeWork's evolution from a startup-focused co-working space to a service for large enterprises, emphasizing community and user experience. Park explores philosophical approaches to architecture, the impact of built environments on cognition, and the use of research methods to measure these effects. Case studies highlight the role of social interactions in enhancing performance, while a focus on holistic user experience underscores the importance of continuous improvement. The session concludes with a Q&A, discussing the broader implications of WeWork's research and design strategies for diverse demographics and industries.

Introduction to WeWork and Its Services

0:00 - 1:58

Stephanie Park introduces herself and provides an overview of WeWork, highlighting its evolution from a co-working space provider for startups to a service that caters to large enterprises. The focus of WeWork is on building community and enhancing user experience by understanding human behavior. This segment sets the stage for the presentation by emphasizing the importance of community and user interaction in the design and operation of WeWork spaces. The speaker's background in architecture, cognitive psychology, and data science is mentioned, underscoring her expertise in the intersection of built environments and human experience. This introduction is engaging as it frames the talk within the context of WeWork's mission and the speaker's personal journey, making it relatable and setting a clear direction for the subsequent discussion.

Philosophical Approaches to Built Environments

1:58 - 3:14

The presenter discusses the influence of philosophical approaches on the design of built environments, referencing the work of architects who incorporated neuroscientific ideas to create spaces that stimulate constant neural activity. This segment highlights the innovative concept of 'reversible destiny,' where unexpected design elements are used to enhance cognitive engagement. Although the architects' ultimate goal of extending life was not realized, the example serves as a fascinating case of how architecture can influence physiological and psychological states. This segment is particularly intriguing due to its exploration of how unconventional design can impact human cognition, offering a novel perspective on the potential of architecture to shape human experience.

Measuring the Impact of Built Environments

3:14 - 5:29

Stephanie Park delves into methodologies for studying the impact of built environments on human experience. She outlines different approaches, such as breaking down experiences into specific moments or considering the holistic impact of an environment. The speaker references studies on spatial elements like ceiling height and wall decorations, which affect creativity and task performance. This segment is compelling as it showcases the complexity of measuring environmental impact and the need for diverse research methods. The discussion of specific studies provides concrete examples of how spatial design can influence cognitive and emotional responses, reinforcing the importance of intentional design in architecture.

Case Studies on Social Interactions and Performance

5:29 - 8:07

The presenter shares insights from two case studies that explore the relationship between social interactions and performance in workspaces. The first study, conducted by MIT, used humanized badges to track interactions and found a correlation between diverse interactions and improved performance. The second study focused on WeLive spaces, revealing that proximity and shared communal areas foster friendships. These case studies illustrate the tangible benefits of designing spaces that encourage social interaction, highlighting the role of architecture in enhancing productivity and community building. The use of real-world examples makes this segment particularly engaging, as it demonstrates the practical application of research findings in improving user experience.

Holistic Experience and Continuous Improvement

8:07 - 11:46

Stephanie Park emphasizes the importance of understanding the holistic experience of users in built environments. She discusses WeWork's approach to gathering user feedback and utilizing data analytics to continuously improve space design and operations. The segment highlights the use of various research methodologies, including surveys, interviews, and virtual reality studies, to capture users' physical and emotional responses. This focus on continuous improvement and user-centered design is crucial for creating spaces that meet the evolving needs of diverse users. The segment is noteworthy for its emphasis on the iterative nature of design and the integration of user feedback into the development process, underscoring the dynamic relationship between architecture and user experience.

Audience Q&A and Broader Implications

11:46 - 16:58

The presentation concludes with a Q&A session, where audience members inquire about the implications of WeWork's research on lab environments and the design for diverse demographics. Stephanie Park responds by highlighting the importance of community and purpose in enhancing productivity and satisfaction. She also discusses the evolving nature of WeWork's design to accommodate various industries and age groups. This segment is engaging as it provides insights into the broader implications of WeWork's research and design philosophy, emphasizing the adaptability and inclusivity of their approach. The interaction with the audience adds a dynamic element to the presentation, allowing for the exploration of practical applications and future directions in neuroarchitecture.