Emotional responses to spatial arrangements in museum interiors

Abstract

Museums are increasingly conceptualized not only as repositories of knowledge but also as emotionally resonant environments. This research investigates how spatial arrangements within museum interiors, specifically the configuration paths, ceiling heights, spatial sequencing, and transitions influence emotional responses of visitors. Drawing upon theories from environmental psychology and spatial design, the study utilizes a mixed - method approach, incorporating observational analysis and a two – tiered pictorial questionnaire administered to visitors and academic groups. Three international museums: The Guggenheim Museum, The British Museum, The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) were used for the pictorial questionnaire survey and observations were conducted at one local museum: Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA). Data reveals distinct correlations between spatial conditions and emotional states such as freedom, focus, curiosity or anxiety highlighting the role of spatial configuration and phenomenological immersion in shaping user experience. The findings offer practical insights for designers and curators, demonstrating how spatial arrangements can be strategically employed to evoke targeted emotional outcomes in museum interiors.