Finding the Way Inside: Linking Architectural Design Analysis and Cognitive Processes

A collaboration with the Centre for Cognitive Science Freiburg, and the Max-Planck-Institute for Biological Cybernetics,
Christoph Hölscher (U Freiburg), Tobias Meilinger (MPI), Georg Vrachliotis (ETH), Markus Knauff (MPI)

contact: Georg Vrachliotis

Many people have problems finding their way around public buildings such as airports, hospitals, office buildings, and not least of all university buildings. The problem may partially lie in their spatio-cognitive abilities, but could also be due to an architecture that only rudimentarily accounts for what is known about human spatial cognition. The aim of the case study is to make progress towards linking architectural design and human spatial cognition research.

The study is concerned with human wayfinding in public buildings. Two main aspects of wayfinding difficulties are considered: architectural features of the building and cognitive processes of the agent. We conducted an empirical study in a complex multi-level building, comparing performance measures of experts and novices in different wayfinding tasks. Thinking aloud protocols provide insights into navigation strategies, planning phases, use of landmarks and signage, and measures of survey knowledge. Specific strategies for navigation in multi-level buildings, like the floor strategy, are identified and evaluated. An architectural analysis of the building is provided and possible causes for navigation problems are discussed. Different architectural features of the building are investigated with respect to human spatial cognition and usability issues. Finally potential benefits for the architectural design process were addressed and discussed for further research.

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-- GeorgVrachliotis - 10 May 2005