Simulated CMF as a Credible Representation Method for Experimental Design Studies

Colours, materials and finishes (CMF) is a vital component of many branches of design. Practicing designers and researchers primarily use digital representation tools to explore the material aspects of a new design proposal (e.g. a façade, an interior, a product). Although some still prefer to use physical material samples to convey CMF properties (e.g. colour, texture, reflectance) in as tangible and realistic way possible. it is an expensive and demanding process. A validated digital alternative would be a welcome addition for designers and researchers. In the current research, two different interior CMF representation methods, one physical and one digitally simulated, were evaluated for discrepancies based on data from three semantic scales (‘warm’, ‘energetic’, ‘intimate’). In study 1, 30 participants assessed a red fabric-covered physical model, representing a corner of an ordinary room. In study 2, 30 different participants assessed the same red fabric, projected as a .JPG scan onto the white corner walls of a full-size room. Both methods achieved similar results on the ‘warm’ and ‘intimate’ scales, but differed on the ‘energetic' scale. The work justifies further investigation of digitally simulated CMF as a potentially credible representation method for experimental design studies, so long as precautions are observed.