Mental image has been studied in the context of urban spaces for decades and contributes to citizen satisfaction. Residential complexes, as smaller entities within cities, are also influenced by mental image factors that can enhance residents' satisfaction. Both physical and psychological factors play a significant role in shaping mental images. This study aims to identify the psychological factors that create mental images in residents of residential buildings and to provide corresponding architectural solutions. The research is fundamental in purpose and quantitative in approach. Data collection methods include a combination of library studies, field research, and a survey-based questionnaire. The research is based on the Hchenner and Ritchie model, and the questionnaire was designed according to the two dimensions of this model: general psychological and specific psychological factors. The target population includes architects working in consulting engineering firms in Urmia, experts on mental image, and residents of residential complexes. The results revealed that general psychological factors such as security, comfort, beauty, vitality, simplicity for internal spaces, and complexity for public spaces, significantly affect the residents' mental image. Specific psychological factors, including social interactions and indigenous and religious beliefs, were also found to be important. Accordingly, architectural solutions addressing these factors—such as improving security and comfort through eliminating defenseless spaces, increasing spatial transparency, creating communal spaces, using diverse forms, natural elements, and cultural and indigenous features—are suggested for residential complex designs. Attention to these factors and appropriate architectural solutions can enhance residential environments and improve residents' mental images.