Exploring Sustainable Urban Environments: A Comparative Study of Wayfinding Signage Design and Visual Preferences between Designers and Non-Designers

In increasingly complex urban environments, as the costs and challenges of infrastructure upgrades rise, wayfinding signage has become an effective solution due to its low cost and high flexibility. However, the significant differences in design perception between professional designers and non-designers are overlooked, which may result in signage failing to meet the diverse needs of users, ultimately diminishing the overall functionality and experience of urban spaces. This study compares the visual preferences of both groups regarding text, shapes, color coding, and patterns,. The results show that designers prioritize functionality and clarity to ensure the effective use of signage in complex urban environments, while non-designers place more emphasis on reflect local cultural symbols and characteristics. These differences not only reveal varying expectations of urban environments but also influence the sustainable integration of signage into the urban landscape. These differences is crucial for developing design strategies that balance functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability.