that quality in a physical object which gives it a high probability of evoking a strong image in any given observer. It is that shape, color, or arrangement which facilitates the making of vividly identified, powerfully structured, highly useful mental images of the environment.
In my opinion, “Imageability” is more like a concept of psychology. When people talk about a city, some “Images” will come to their minds immediately. These “Images” include streets, squares and landmark buildings, very strong and vivid. These “Images” form the basic impression of people for cities. “Imageability” is a very important city attribute, which is worth being well designed to reinforce the form, physical controls and public image of cities.
The idea of imageability is closely tied to "collective imagery," a concept promoted by Charles Jencks (See the book "The Iconic Building" by Charles Jencks). Do you think imageability is something a city promotes or do you think a city's imageability comes from simply building the city? To what degree is it controlled or reinforced?
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think of "imageability" different from "legibility"? in urban design?
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