Modern architecture, emerging from the rubble of the First World War, represents a stylistic revolution deeply influenced by a paradigm of minimalism and functionality. This transition, from extensive ornamentation to cleaner, more geometric structures, can be partially attributed to the perceptual and cognitive changes of individuals on the autism spectrum that influenced its main proponents. Contemporary studies in cognitive neuroscience have explored how neurogenetic anomalies, such as those seen in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), can modulate the perception and creation of architectural space.
Le Corbusier, an iconic figure in this field, is often cited as having exhibited characteristics consistent with ASD, as described by Daniels and Weber in their biographical analyses. Le Corbusier’s architectural expression, marked by a preference for pure forms and an aversion to complex visual stimuli, reflects an adaptation to his atypical sensory processing. This is evidenced by his tendency to simplify visuals to the extreme, as illustrated in his iconic structures, such as the Villa Savoye, which highlights an aesthetic of clean lines and the absence of unnecessary decorations.
Research using eye-tracking technologies shows that individuals with ASD often display atypical visual fixation patterns. For example, while a neurotypical observer may focus on social features such as eyes when viewing faces, individuals with ASD tend to avoid these areas, focusing on peripheral points. Applied to architecture, this tendency may explain a predilection for structures that minimize overloading visual stimuli, preferring smooth surfaces and simple contours that do not induce sensory overload.
Additionally, the 21st century, often described as the “Age of Biology,” provides a broader context for understanding how hyperplasticity — a common feature in ASD that involves an excess of synaptic connections — can affect spatial experience. This neural configuration can make visual stimuli overwhelming, leading to a need for more controlled and less detailed environments.
Le Corbusier’s perspective on the “death of the street”, as articulated in “Towards a New Architecture”, suggests not only a utopian vision for future metropolises, but also a need to reduce the disorder and chaos that could be disruptive to a autistic brain. His vision of cities characterized by isolated towers and wide avenues can be seen as an attempt to create an environment that reflects the clarity and order necessary for his cognitive well-being.
These neuroarchitectural observations reveal that the development of modern architecture was not only a response to cultural and historical influences, but also a physical manifestation of the neurocognitive peculiarities of its proponents. Understanding the intersection between neuroscience and architectural design offers pathways to more inclusive environments that meet diverse sensory needs, contributing to overall health and well-being. Continued investigation in this field not only enriches our understanding of architectural history, but also pushes forward a future where design can be truly adapted to all spectrums of human experience.
