Perceptions prediction model in architectural library spaces

Abstract

Determining as “Good design” architectural products is an extensively studied topic. Moreover is a constant discussion between technical colleagues. Most of the currents investigations analyses these factors from the empirical point of view attending established parameters from different associations or lobbies, such as functionality, adaptability and accessibility among others. However there are quite subjective components inherent to every new architectural creation, such as perception of good design, versatility and sense of comfort, what makes completely necessary to incorporate techniques which allow analyzing these perceptions in a quantitative way. Kansei engineering is a designing technique which allows picking up emotional users needs and establishes prediction models in order to connect product characteristics with those emotional needs. This technique could allow to limit to the point till which certain sensations are based on objective characteristics or which of those are just subjective perceptions, no less predictable because of this. This research aims to analyze, throughout the Kansei Engineering, perceptions users have from the Universitat Politècnica de València campus libraries. Results may be interesting for engineers and architects, planning their architectonic and designing solutions in order to maximize human wellness. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2014.