Did you know that personality can influence design and aesthetic preferences?
Several researchers have investigated how personality may influence the architecture and interior design of one’s space. A study, in particular, has investigated such a concept by considering the Big Five Personality Traits.
The Big Five Personality Model is a taxonomy of personality traits developed in the 1980s that allows the understanding of which personality traits are stronger or less pronounced in each individual. The traits included are extraversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness and neuroticism. The extent to which one is stronger or lower in each trait impacts every aspect of life from the way we socialise with others, the way we purchase, the type of experiential consumption we are likely to engage in but also how we decide to style our homes, offices and so on…
This interesting study has shown exactly that. It showed that each personality type has certain preferences when it comes to design but also to the type of art they prefer.
For instance, more extroverted individuals tend to prefer open interior spaces, bold colours and furniture that offer warmth and texture. This might be due to their social nature which makes them identify the home also as a social space to share with several people. On the other hand, introverts prefer softer colours like pastels or neutrals and might prefer a more minimalistic décor. This preference could be because the home feels like a safe space, a refuge from the outer world. However, a preference for more classical and representational art is more likely to be found in highly agreeable individuals who generally show a tendency to choose warm colours. This category generally prefers to create interior spaces in which everyone can feel comfortable.
A similar aspiration, even if achieved differently, is also desired by highly conscientious people who, yes prefer more traditional styles but avoid warm colours and are more likely drawn to minimalism Their counterparts, less conscientious individuals, who have a more creative side, instead prefer a less organised design, more colourful and unusual combinations.
A preference for abstract styles is also seen in people who are generally more open to experiences in everyday life. These people are the ones who like to try new foods, travel to different places and are less interested in setting a routine. This category generally prefers modern and abstract styles and also airy and colourful interior designs.
Think of all the applications that these few findings could generate. Knowing the personality of the people who would experience the space in the future could be the key to creating truly effective and engaging environments, environments that speak to people. When designing a space, thinking of the people you want to attract within it could be truly beneficial and finding the right combination to satisfy them all is even more crucial.