Seasonal Preferences and Interactions of Visual/ Auditory Elements of Streetscape in Namwon City, Korea

Abstract

This study investigated the seasonal preference for visual and auditory elements of streetscape of Korean citizen, and examined the interaction of these elements in different seasons. According to an environmental psychological approach called the caption evaluation method, 45 college students examined the streetscape of Namwon City in North Jeolla Province in different periods of the four seasons. There was interaction between the visual as well as auditory elements of streetscape and with seasons. In spring, summer and autumn, visual preference for natural elements was the highest while visual preference for artificial elements was the highest in winter. Analysis of the order of visual preference of elements found that respecting and enhancing natural/ecological environment and traditional/cultural streetscape of local community was important to improve the visual preference of streetscape. In spring, summer and autumn, auditory preference for natural sounds was the highest while auditory preference for social sounds was the highest in winter. This paper provides an insight for future determination, to decide what attention is required to improve visual preference of the urban elements; to ensure urban landscaping would provide a harmonious ecological environment that would respect culture, tradition and nature.