Conceptualizing the chromatic experience of environment: Two case studies using the Color Walk method

Abstract

Designing the colors of a new neighborhood without a color definition of facades is challenging task. While there is a wealth of research on color perception and architectural color design, tools and methods are needed to understand the chromatic experience of areas. Thus, this case‐study research aims to explore the chromatic experience by introducing a new ethnographic Color Walk method. The participants are professionals in the fields of architecture and color. Two voice‐recorded and transcribed discussions are examined from two perspectives: the suitability of the Color Walk to conceptualize the chromatic experience of neighborhoods and analyzing the main concepts used by professional participants. The analysis shows that the seven main concepts are: (1) material; (2) light; (3) views in/from/into the area; (4) atmosphere; (5) identity; (6) landscape/nature/landscape architecture; and (7) architecture. Architecture includes four subareas: (a) the color scale of the building design, (b) the color scale of the urban design, (c) the history of architecture, and (d) color trends. The results indicate that the Color Walk method allows conceptualizing how environmental colors are experienced. However, several repetitions are needed to confirm all the concepts. Furthermore, complex facade colors are only one element of the chromatic experience. Thus, other aspects should also be emphasized in environmental color design. The results also show that environmental color design is related to urban design and building design. The findings of this study contribute to existing research by expanding the concepts of urban design to environmental color design.