The psychological impact of exterior curved forms in architectural structures and their role in attracting users

Architecture, as an intersection of science, art, technology, and psychology, has long sought to enhance human comfort and well-being. Among the many elements that influence user experience, the form and geometry of buildings play a particularly significant role in shaping perceptions of safety, attraction, and emotional response. This study explores the psychological impact of exterior curved architectural forms in comparison with angular ones, examining whether curved geometry can foster greater user interest and emotional engagement. Drawing on theoretical insights from environmental psychology and structural considerations, the research also highlights how curves not only appeal aesthetically but may provide advantages in stability and load distribution. To investigate these questions empirically, a visual questionnaire was distributed among 35 participants at a university in Iran, of which 30 valid responses were analyzed. The results show that approximately 69% of participants preferred curved architectural forms, especially in public and social spaces such as libraries, hotels, cafés, and theaters. However, in certain contexts, including villas and museums, angular forms were equally or more favored, suggesting that functional and cultural factors influence preferences. These findings contribute to the growing discourse on the relationship between psychology and architecture, offering architects evidence-based insights into how form selection can enhance emotional engagement, user satisfaction, and contextual appropriateness in design.