Analyzing the Impact of Deconstructivist and Biophilic Design on Spatial Risk Perception, Place Attachment, and Investment Behavior in Iranian Urban Cultural Spaces: A Human-Centered Approach Based on Environmental Psychology and Behavioral Economics

Abstract

This applied, descriptive–analytical study examines how two contrasting architectural paradigms—deconstructivist and biophilic design—affect spatial risk perception, place attachment, and investment behavior in Iranian urban cultural spaces. Grounded in environmental psychology and behavioral economics, the research adopts a human-centered, interdisciplinary framework to explore the psychological and economic implications of architectural form.

Data were collected via a structured questionnaire from 312 participants—including citizens, architects, and cultural investors—across five major Iranian cities. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (v26) and AMOS (v24), incorporating Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results revealed that deconstructivist design significantly increased perceived spatial risk (β = –0.28, p < 0.001) and weakened place attachment, thereby reducing investment intent. In contrast, biophilic design enhanced emotional bonding and positively predicted investment behavior (β = +0.31, p < 0.001). The model demonstrated good fit indices (CFI = 0.94, RMSEA = 0.048, χ²/df = 2.14).

These findings underscore the performative role of architectural form in shaping psychological security and economic trust, offering actionable insights for culturally responsive design in urban development.