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3. INFORMATION RICHNESS

GOALS

"This space offers levels of interest"

 

THE BASICS

Information richness happens through ordered complexity 

 

In the natural world, variety offers information richness and complexity. We value complexity and information richness, stemming from a biological need for information (1, 2, 3).  Ornament and detail are necessary components in the built world. In the natural world, variety offers information richness and complexity.

 

It has been suggested that modern architecture’s minimalist approach affects our physiology, and creates a reaction similar to sensory deprivation and neurophysiologic breakdown (3).    

(1) Alexander, 2004; Friedman et al., 2008; Heerwagen, 2011; Heerwagen & Gregory, 2008; (2) Kellert, 2015; Salingaros, 2012; (3) Salingaros & Masden II, 2008

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

Too much information, too little information,
and disorganized information feels unnatural and can increases stress.

(Both minimalist and high-dimensional abstract artwork/architecture have been shown to increase stress (5)). 

DETAIL
CONTRAST
SYMMETRIES
COLOR

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

(5) Taylor, 2006;
Break Down

 

Photo Credits: Studio Sweers Photography

WE GATHER INFORMATION THROUGH:

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

Photo Credit: Nicole Craanen

All Photo Credits: Nicole Craanen

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