Preference for Chinese Vernacular Windows: Combined Effects of Shape and View

Abstract

This study presents a psychological survey of the preferences for Chinese vernacular windows among young adults. The experiment participants were young Chinese students who were studying the programmes of architecture, urban planning, interior design and engineering in a public university in Beijing. Eighteen window shapes combined with three types of view were investigated using a subjective questionnaire. Several statistical models were applied to expose some design implications based on the feedback: (1) There are differences of preference between various window shapes. (2) The view will significantly affect the preference; while the natural view can reduce the differences of preference between various windows. (3) Male and female participants have few differences of preference for most of the window types.