Interaction of Graphic Variables in Cognitive Accessibility of Interior Designs

Abstract

The graphic variables figure-ground, color, texture, shadow, and transparency are important attributes of graphic techniques drawn at the ideation phase of creative processes to design both buildings and interior spaces. Drawing them in the initial sketches helps to create spaces that are beautiful and rich in sensory experiences and that are therefore more easily understandable and accessible. Interiors that include balance between figure-ground, harmony of colors, variety of textures, combination of shadow and natural light, and transparency are more welcoming and accessible for anyone, especially for those with cognitive disabilities. In addition, these variables highlight the unique and unrepeatable architectural features of interior spaces such as integration into an existing context or background, typical colors of a region, local materials, and distinctive light from a specific angle.

This paper analyses five graphic variables in architectural sketches from the ideation phase drawn by renowned contemporary architects, comparing drawing and reality with the aim of extracting conclusions for better cognitive accessibility.