The appearance of your journal as "squared and ominous" may be influenced by factors such as architectural design and urban environment, particularly in urban settings like Jersey City where structures like the Journal Squared towers create a certain skyline aesthetic.
Architectural projects are often assessed based on their "biophilic design," which aims to incorporate nature and organic shapes into the built environment to counteract feelings of rigidity or ominousness associated with geometric forms.
The human brain has an innate preference for symmetry and organic shapes, known as the "gestalt principles." When confronted with stark, angular forms, people may experience discomfort or a sense of threat, often associating it with the unfamiliar.
"Urban canyon" effects occur in cities with tall buildings, where light, air, and sounds are trapped between skyscrapers, contributing to a feeling of confinement and sometimes ominous surrounding, especially at dusk when shadows elongate.
The phenomenon of “architectural fear” can arise from certain design choices that evoke feelings of intimidation or unease, such as the use of dark materials or sharp angles, as seen in some high-rise buildings.
Color psychology plays a role in the perception of buildings as well.
Ominous buildings often use darker colors, which can subconsciously produce feelings of anxiety or discomfort in observers.
The height and mass of buildings, especially residential skyscrapers, can influence wind patterns—thus affecting how people perceive safety and comfort in their surroundings, intensifying feelings of unease.
The concept of "place attachment" indicates that urban environments greatly affect individual feelings of safety and comfort; new, large structures might not yet evoke positive associations compared to older, familiar buildings.
Light pollution is a critical factor in urban designs; brighter lights can mask the moon and stars, creating a more foreboding atmosphere at night and impacting how residents perceive their surroundings.
The concept of the "broken window theory" suggests that neglected or intimidating environments can breed crime and violence, evoking both fear and unease among residents and visitors alike.
In urban planning, the “15-minute city” concept advocates for accessible living areas but can contrast with high-density housing projects, potentially leading to feelings of isolation within large, looming skyscrapers.
Research in environmental psychology shows that the way spaces are designed—especially in high-rise buildings—can significantly affect mental health, making the interplay of space, light, and color critical in combatting feelings of dread.
Designing with "defensible" space principles in mind can help relieve ominous feelings.
This includes creating areas where people feel they can assert control and belong, even within high-rise, urban settings.
The idea of "urban resilience" addresses how city designs can accommodate and adapt to societal needs, altering perceptions of spaces that may first appear daunting or foreboding.
Noise pollution, which is often exacerbated in dense urban areas, can heighten stress and feelings of discomfort in residents living near large structures, further contributing to the perception of unease.
Advances in architectural acoustics are being utilized to mitigate these effects, indicating that soundscapes greatly influence how people perceive their environment—transforming ominous spaces into more inviting ones.
Biomimetic architecture looks to nature for solutions, suggesting that building designs reflecting natural forms can enhance comfort and positively alter perceptions of their surroundings.
Studies in social neuroscience reveal that perceived social isolation in urban settings can arise from intimidating architecture, indicating the critical importance of creating inviting public spaces to counteract feelings of disconnection.
The evolution of urban landscape and architecture reflects societal values; current preferences for transparency and connectivity in design contrast sharply with the oppressive, solid facades of earlier decades, aiming to enhance community ties.