Architecture and aesthetic perception : an introduction to architectural aesthetics

Abstract

Aesthetic perception is the appreciation of beauty and like perception, it is a learned capability. The psychology of perception is used as a means of understanding the human aesthetic response. It is apparent that the brain has two opposing tendencies, one promoting analysis and order, and the other continually seeking stimulation. Aesthetic pleasure is experienced whenever the need for these opposing characteristics of visual stimuli is satisfied through the actions of the arousal boost and arousal reduction mechanisms. These tendencies are manifested in a need for both order and complexity, and the most preferred objects seem to be those with a high degree of complexity and a high degree of order. In the context of architecture we may consider the form (or formal aesthetics) and the meaning of the form (or symbolic aesthetics). Formal aesthetics is concerned with the necessity for and means of attaining order by means of systems of proportion, consideration of scale, rhythm and balance. The role of ambiguity as a desirable means of attaining complexity, the golden section and symmetry in architecture are all discussed. Meaning is seen to be an unavoidable attribute of architecture. It appears that buildings which express their function are satisfactory, but those with character or which carry an expression of emotion, have the highest aesthetic value.