Perceptions and Preferences in Architectural Façades: Insights from Tehran’s Designers and Users

Evaluating Tehran’s architectural façades for aesthetics means comprehending the minute distinctions in how consumers and designers see the same thing. Studies show that a variety of elements, including education, have an impact on how architects and non-architects perceive beauty. Recognizing and comprehending these distinctions is crucial to creating designs that work for both groups. In this study, we conducted a quantitative analysis of the aesthetic preferences of one hundred non-architects and one hundred holders of advanced degrees while examining twelve façades in Tehran. Our results demonstrate significant variances, particularly with regard to the traditional architectural style. Different perspectives emerged, despite the fact that architects and non-architects collaborate frequently to choose a façade, with non-architects favoring conventional aesthetics, particularly when it came to the exterior of their buildings. Conversely, architects expressed worries, particularly regarding Tehran’s residential structures. With a mean score of 3.3 for architects and 3.2 for non-architects, it was the ugliest façade according to both groups. Non-architects chose photographs 3 (M=5.2), 4 (M=5.2), 6 (M=5.1), 8 (M=6.2), 9 (M=5.5), 10 (M=6.03), and 11 (M=5.6) as the top façades; picture 8 was thought to be the most beautiful. These findings demonstrate how important it is to bridge the gap between professional expertise and user preferences in architectural design. Through understanding and incorporating the many perspectives of architects and users, we can encourage the development of aesthetically pleasing and inclusive urban environments.