The Purpose of Aesthetics in Architecture

This paper explores the multiple connotations of the term “Aesthetics in Architecture” to professionals and laymen/users, to facilitate more informed decision-making. One of the research methods used was a survey for aesthetic evaluation of design parameters and photographs. Across categories, people felt that aesthetics should certainly be pleasing while integrating overall performance. Safety was considered priority. Heritage buildings were appreciated for their timelessness and durability. Non-professionals rated iconism lower and cost-consciousness much higher. Users felt that climatic comfort, cost and maintenance were important. Aesthetics also impact construction labour productivity and stress, environmental conditions of communities around, and climatic comfort integration.