Which architectural style makes an attractive street scape? Aesthetic preferences among city centre managers

Abstract

Rational design based on aesthetic principles from the 1930s dominates contemporary architecture and property development, contributing to a homogenous urban landscape. The aim of this paper is to examine how professionals involved in city centre development value different architectural styles. Based on a sample of 109 respondents, measuring the architectural preferences of city centre managers, this study indicates that city centre managers view classical architecture in terms of being better for city centres than modernist. The paper suggests that city centre managers can successfully be involved in the design process of attractive streetscapes.