Assessing effects of facade characteristics and visual elements on perceived oppressiveness in high-rise window views via virtual reality

In urban environments, high-rise buildings efficiently use vertical space in densely populated areas; however, they may also negatively affect mental health. Despite this, the existing literature lacks sufficient research on how high-rise buildings' exterior features promote citizens' well-being, particularly concerning building facade characteristics like window-to-wall ratio (WWR) and height-to-width ratio (HWR). Therefore, this study employed virtual reality (VR) technology to simulate 27 visual scenes of high-rise window views, presented to 40 participants to assess their subjective impressions of perceived oppressiveness. This research revealed an inverse bivariate correlation between perceived oppressiveness and environmental preference. Facade characteristics of high-rise office buildings emerged as crucial influencers of citizens' mental well-being. Specifically, increasing the window-to-wall ratio tended to diminish oppressiveness while elevating the height-to-width ratio exacerbated feelings of oppressiveness. The variable of floor level exhibited a nonlinear relationship with the perception of oppressiveness. The nonlinear regression model predicts the values of oppressiveness associated with various facade characteristics and observation floors. Quantitative analysis indicated that increasing the ratio of the sky while decreasing the ratio of buildings within window views reduced perceived oppressiveness. This study underscores the significance of facade characteristics and visual elements in urban design for improving mental health, offering valuable insights for designers and policymakers. • The facade characteristics of high-rise office buildings are critical factors influencing the mental well-being of citizens. • Augmenting the window-to-wall ratio decreases perceived oppressiveness, whereas increasing the height-to-width ratio intensifies perceived oppressiveness. • Viewing floor level shows a non-linear relationship with perceived oppressiveness. • Quantitative analysis indicates that increasing the ratio of the sky while decreasing the ratio of buildings within window views reduces perceived oppressiveness.