Evaluating the linkage between visual complexity and aesthetics of street-elevations using the fractal dimension assessment method

Abstract

This paper explores the correlation between street morphological complexity and aesthetic judgement perceived at street view level through the eyes of architectural and urban design experts. A literature review identified seven criteria commonly used to articulate the concept of aesthetics in street elevations, namely: rhythm, proportion, visual balance, colour coherence, material coherence, street edge continuity and street landmark. Panoramic views of 10 street elevations worldwide representing these criteria were selected to assess the correlation between visual aesthetics and complexity exposed by their urban forms. The panoramic street images were then visually manipulated through the ‘add’ and ‘remove’ technique and categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of the aesthetic criteria. The disparity between these groups concerning changes in their visual complexity was calculated mathematically by employing ImageJ software. A t-test revealed a significant relationship between the presence of aesthetic criteria and their respective morphological complexity in street landscapes. Moreover, a quantitative association between landscape beauty and visual complexity was identified. The research revealed the strong correlation between street elevation aesthetics and morphological complexity. It adds a quantitative tool in the toolbox of architects and urban designers, assisting them to assess their novel design solutions for enhancing street elevation visual quality.