Balancing aesthetic diversity and functional efficiency to enhance building performance and user satisfaction

Abstract

This paper investigates on the aesthetic values that were employed during residential, commercial and administrative building by comparing statistical data. Findings show that diversity is always one of the most significant aesthetical values, but its comparative significance depends on the type of building. Diversity has a mean score of 4,15 with an importance rating of 83 % in residential buildings, and then rhythm (4,05), harmony (4,01) and contrast (3,98). Complexity gets a lowest score (3,12), and unity, balance, and proportionality are in a moderate range (3,45-3,65). Diversity is once more the most valued in commercial buildings having a mean score of 4,42 and an importance rating of 88,40 %. Balance is also high (4,10), and the values of unity (3,65), rhythm and contrast (3,80) are medium. Complexity is the least desirable element (3,20), and this is in line with a tendency to adopt simple design. In case of administrative buildings, the most stressed values are proportionality (4,15; 83,00 %), and diversity, as well as ratio (3,44; 68,80 %). Balance (3,88) is also appreciated whereas complexity (3,35), harmony, (3,40), and rhythm (3,38) are viewed as mediocre. These results can help architects to be practical in the integration of aesthetic strategies to the intended purpose of a building.