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PurposeThis study aims to develop a photo-based methodology to identify occupants' collaborative image of the energy-efficient small-size housing.Design/methodology/approachEmploying qualitative and quantitative approaches, 24 photos were randomly selected from different urban areas of Brisbane (Australia) city for an online survey. A total of 36 participants evaluated the photos 159 times.FindingsConducted content analysis resulted in the identification of 5 attribute-based factors, generated from 16 semantic categories and 74 attributes. Using a non-parametric Chi-square test, the factors were categorised in two levels, i.e. (1) envelope elements (primary and secondary) and passive climatic principles; and (2) architectural composition principles and neighbourhood quality.Social implicationsThe discussion on the results via the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) suggests that regarding the external aspects, the people's image of energy-efficient housing could be influenced by their perceived control over changeable and adjustable attributes.Originality/valueThe photo-based methodology developed by this paper has the potential to quantify occupants' collaborative image of small-size housing energy efficiency, which would be essential in assisting them to adjust their dwelling units regarding the congruity of the energy efficiency attributes with their preferences.

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