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A computational framework for aesthetic preferences in architecture using computer vision and artificial neural networks

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Authors

External Research Organisations

  • Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)174 - 192
JournalInternational Journal of Architectural Computing
Volume23
Issue number1
Early online date10 Sept 2024
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2025

Abstract

This paper introduces a computational aesthetics framework utilizing computer vision (CV) and artificial neural networks (ANN) to predict the aesthetic preferences of groups of people for architecture. It relies on part-to-whole theories from aesthetics and cognitive psychology. A survey of a group of people on preferences of images is held to record an average hedonic response (AHR). CV algorithms MSER and SAM recognize parts in images. Birkhoff’s aesthetic measure formula is adapted by employing the number of parts and their connections. These quantities are used as input layers of an ANN, and the AHR is the target output. The ANN evaluates images to output a predicted hedonic response (PHR), which is tested as a criterion in parametric design space navigation and in mapping the latent space of GANs. We conclude that such a framework is a heuristic method for better understanding the design and latent spaces and exploring designs.

Keywords

    Artificial neural networks, computational aesthetics, computer vision, design space navigation, empirical aesthetics, hedonic response, heuristics, latent space map, quantitative aesthetics

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Cite this

A computational framework for aesthetic preferences in architecture using computer vision and artificial neural networks. / Sardenberg, Victor; Guatelli, Igor; Becker, Mirco.
In: International Journal of Architectural Computing, Vol. 23, No. 1, 03.2025, p. 174 - 192.

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer review

Sardenberg, V, Guatelli, I & Becker, M 2025, 'A computational framework for aesthetic preferences in architecture using computer vision and artificial neural networks', International Journal of Architectural Computing, vol. 23, no. 1, pp. 174 - 192. https://doi.org/10.1177/14780771241279350
Sardenberg V, Guatelli I, Becker M. A computational framework for aesthetic preferences in architecture using computer vision and artificial neural networks. International Journal of Architectural Computing. 2025 Mar;23(1):174 - 192. Epub 2024 Sept 10. doi: 10.1177/14780771241279350
Sardenberg, Victor ; Guatelli, Igor ; Becker, Mirco. / A computational framework for aesthetic preferences in architecture using computer vision and artificial neural networks. In: International Journal of Architectural Computing. 2025 ; Vol. 23, No. 1. pp. 174 - 192.
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