Irregular lighting patterns can trigger heightened curiosity and sustained attention by creating subtle unpredictability in the environment. Experiments indicate that participants respond more attentively to non-uniform lighting, and some reported that the experience reminded them of slot interfaces in a casino Vigor Spin, where unexpected visual cues maintain interest.

At the Cognitive Perception Lab in Berlin, 128 participants were exposed to lighting patterns with varying levels of irregularity. Those experiencing irregular lighting displayed longer focus periods and higher subjective curiosity scores compared to participants in uniform lighting conditions. Social media discussions, especially on Reddit, often highlight that spaces with irregular lighting feel “dynamic” and “stimulating,” reflecting the experimental findings.

Experts explain that irregular lighting activates both attentional and reward-related brain circuits, including the prefrontal cortex and striatum, sustaining cognitive engagement. These findings suggest that intentional manipulation of light patterns can enhance curiosity, attention, and emotional involvement in both digital and physical environments.