How Buildings Make You Feel

By Ayush Deshpande Nov. 12, 2025

Architecture can be seen in every facet of human life, from a simple playground to the tallest of skyscrapers. Architectural designs can influence people both consciously and subconsciously. A well-designed concourse might shade people from the sun and the rain; a colorful building might make people feel happy and welcome. However, fortress or hostile architecture, which can take the shape of imposing buildings with harsh shapes, or facilities without common amenities such as water fountains and benches, may feel unwelcoming.

Hostile architecture is the practice of designing public spaces to discourage certain behaviors by making them physically uncomfortable or impossible to rest in for long periods of time. These designs often target the homeless in order to prevent them from loitering in public spaces. Though their locations vary, they usually affect places where the homeless would sleep: benches made uncomfortable with dividers, spikes installed in underpasses and sprinklers placed to deter congregation. Critics argue that hostile architecture is exclusionary towards the homeless and fails to solve the underlying issues that cause homelessness. On the other hand, supporters argue that it could improve public cleanliness and safety. 

Hostile architecture is not a new trend. It dates from the 19th century, when urine deflectors were installed in many cities to discourage people from peeing on buildings. Since its conception, hostile architecture has only become more prevalent, picked up by many cities across the world. 

Helen Ruan Art

In contrast to hostile architecture, welcoming architectural designs can have a positive influence on residents. Design choices such as shaded areas, greenery and water fountains can promote comfort and inclusivity, attracting people to be in their vicinity. For example, shade blocks solar radiation from hitting the shaded area, preventing the ground from reflecting the radiation and cooling the surface. Fountains have a similar effect; as the water of the fountain slowly evaporates, it draws heat out of the surrounding air, cooling its environment. Such effects prompt people to have social interactions with others, particularly in warmer weather where a cooler environment is desirable.

“When a place looks unique or well kept, it automatically feels better to be in. It’s hard to feel connected to buildings that all look the same or seem neglected. Spots like the SAP Center or Santana Row stand out because you can tell someone actually cared about how they make people feel,” Junior Aamir Lokhandwala said.

In addition, having open and green spaces nearby promotes outdoor activity and improves mental health, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the Trust for Public Land, green spaces can increase the economic activity of a city through driving traffic to businesses as well as generating entry fees. For example, in Baton Rouge, the park system provides nearly $280 million in recreational use value to the city; similarly, the New York City Park system provides $9 billion in recreational value each year.

“We hang out in a building in downtown Santa Clara which has big glass windows, shade and water. My friend has a skin condition, and shade makes spending time outside easier. I'm sure it helps many others as well,” Freshman Jose Santiago said.

San José has a mix of both hostile and welcoming architecture. Areas such as the Plaza de César Chávez are welcoming with wide green areas and heavy shade. Built in 1797, the plaza was created as a public open space, later renamed after Cesar Chavez to celebrate California’s agricultural history. These intentionally made public areas encourage social interactions per the EPA. On the other hand, the Alameda & Hanchett Ave VTA bus stop features a bench with a railing dividing the seat in the middle to prevent the homeless from sleeping there—making it an example of hostile architecture in San José. 

However, some buildings featuring intimidating designs, such as the brutalist Bank of California building at 170 Park Avenue, are beloved by citizens of San José. After it was cleared for demolition, the nonprofit Preservation Action Council of San Jose created a petition in an attempt to save the structure from its demise. Though the petition failed to preserve the building, it demonstrates the nuanced effect of brutalist architecture: though it is intended to be imposing and unwelcoming, it is also often iconic and revered by locals.

Architectural design can profoundly influence people's moods and behavior. When spaces are designed with comfort and access in mind, they can enhance the social life atmosphere and be used as a place to meet and interact with new people. As cities continue to grow, architects must consider not just how buildings and spaces look, but how they affect people.

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About the Contributors

Ayush Deshpande

staff writer

Ayush Deshpande is a junior at Leland High School, he is a staff writer for the charger account. He is very interested in Formula One, Legos, Star Wars, and when not at school or playing video games he is often found at K1 Speed or his freinds houses.

Helen Ruan

artist

Helen Ruan is a junior at Leland High School. She contributes to journalism as an artist. In her free time, she focuses on painting and developing new artistic skills. Beyond art, she enjoys reading manga and playing video games.