Examination of the experience of biomorphic form materialized in urban design model

Abstract

This research provides initial examination of the impact that biomorphic forms, implemented in public space as urban design model, has on its potential users. The methods, which were included in this research, was modeling process of biomorphic form of species Bell flower (Campanula persicifolia L.) into urban design model of bench and a visual questionnaire for examination of the visual perception from two target groups. The visual research was based on a validation of a frequently used urban element—bench, on the original photo material which was taken at the city of Belgrade, and a photo-realistic material. At the photo-realistic material, the original urban element was removed by the conceptual model of bench constructed from the biomorphic form. Evaluation of two photos in the visual questionnaire included five criteria that rely on visual capabilities of user’s free assessment and user’s ability for visualization: (1) harmony, unity of space; (2) the legibility of the form of the elements; (3) comfort, amenity; (4) design of the element and (5) innovativeness, attractiveness. Categorical scale was used for assessing quality of criteria by subjects: EXCELLENT, GOOD and BAD. Results of the visual questionnaire indicate that the biomorphic urban design model was generally considered to be excellent and of innovative design, compared to the standard urban model. This innovative urban design model of the public space could be the part of a new approach that has been trying to find a new ways for connecting people with nature and its hidden patterns and forms.