Visually Induced Multisensory Perception in Modern vs. Traditional Architecture: A Comparative Virtual simulation study

Abstract

Architecture stimulates all senses to reach comprehensive sensory experience within Immaterial Architecture, the problem emerges from the insufficiency of relying on a single sense to comprehend architecture. Assuming that Visually perceived materials characteristics function as a stimuli for the remaining senses, and based on the hypothesis; a statistically significant variance in cognitive perception levels (ranging from sensory response to behavioral outcomes) resulting from the differences in characteristics of finishing materials and their applications between modern and traditional environments, these characteristics manifest through contrasting values (material, pattern, color, texture, detail, area of appliance) within the two environments, to investigate the impact of changing finishing material characteristics (within interior design) on the user’s perceptual system. The methodology depends on many steps to reach the objective; applying characteristics to the lobby of the Architecture Engineering Department at the University of Mosul, within virtual simulation to produce two environments, using (Autodesk Revit 2021) software for modeling and (Lumin 12) software for rendering, and collecting perception data by a structured questionnaire alongside virtual tour, with exposure time tracking. The findings demonstrate that the modern environment possesses a higher degree of spatial intelligibility and a greater capacity to encourage prolonged stay (to some extent) compared to the traditional environment. In contrast, the traditional environment is (to some extent) more effective at evoking spatial memory than its in modern counterpart, confirming that altering characteristics of finishing materials in the environment generally leaves a distinct impact on the level of perception. The architects' background and training in modern environment explain their perception of higher spatial intelligibility and inclination for prolonged stays in the modern environment. The sensory differences between the two environments did not translate into a significant variance in actual behavior. Future suggestions may deal with other environments related to different architectural styles or trends to be analyzed and tested, scientifically and practically.