A Cross–Cultural Comparison of Preference for Visual Attributes in Interior Environments: America and China

The visual attribute preferences of Chinese subjects in interior environments were compared to those of American subjects to identify the similarities and differences between two cultures. The comparison utilized a theoretical framework of environmental preference. Findings showed that preference for complexity, coherence, vertical scenes, scenes with darkness at the focal point, and functional settings vary between American and Chinese subjects. These findings are useful to practitioners designing for diverse cultures.