Typography in Urban and Built Environment: Influence on Human Perception

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Civil Engineering and Architecture

Abstract

Typography plays a pivotal role in shaping the visual fabric of a cityscape and its dynamics. This study systematically explores the intricate relationship between environmental typography and its contribution to the human interpretation of public spaces. It addresses a significant gap in the domain of urban science literature and has the potential to contribute to the development of more interactive urban spaces. Therefore, this research employs a twofold methodology, commencing with a comprehensive literature review followed by an experimental phase involving a distinctive approach termed 'perceptual experimentation' to elicit precise psychological responses. The study results demonstrate a significant preference for typographic elements, as revealed by a binomial test analysing 3,150 responses, highlighting a substantial influence of typography on user preferences. Furthermore, a chi-square test confirmed a strong relationship between typographic elements in urban environments and user preference. Regarding the interpretation of the built environment, 74.12% of responses were found to align with correct interpretations. Logistic regression analysis indicated that font style and color significantly influence interpretation, while material and size exert minimal. The study holds important practical implications for urban design, planning and psychology, as it advocates for the integration of typography to enhance the connectivity of public spaces with people.

First Page

2769

Last Page

2782

DOI

10.13189/cea.2025.131341

Publication Date

5-1-2025

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