Evaluation of resident's indoor green space preferences in residential complexes based on plants' characteristics

Abstract

Nowadays, people spend most of their times indoors; accordingly, plants are increasingly used in these environments, including residential areas, due to their psychological benefits and aesthetic values. However, there is little evidence on how to maximize the inhabitants' indoor greenery (IG) preferences. The present study analysed the preferences of 363 inhabitants of two residential complexes with 38% and 6% green space in Tabriz, Iran through investigating greenery quantity and physical characteristics of the plant by the use of a simulated photo questionnaire from the interior spaces of the home. Results suggest that the preferences are not the same in various parts of the home. In general, high greenery quantity and flowering plants are the most preferred and tall foliage plants with wide leaves are the least preferred. Moreover, the effect of green spaces in residential complexes on inhabitants' IG preferences was studied. Results show that there is a significant difference between inhabitants' preferences of the two complexes, in terms of ‘plant colour', ‘leaf size' and ‘plant type'. The obtained results of the research can be utilized for interior designers and landscape architects in order to increase the application of the green space in residential complexes.