Perceptions of compact development: Influence of density, design elements and demographic variables on visual preferenc

Compact development may be expected in transit related corridors of the City of Guelph over the next several decades to meet future housing and employment needs for a growing population in the Greater Golden Horseshoe. Compact development may be foreign to local residents of Guelph and result in public opposition, while undesirable visual characteristics presented by poorly designed compact development in Guelph could result in adverse economic and social impacts. The purpose of this research was to predict how residents of Guelph may react to higher densities. Correlation tests performed on net density and visual preference data revealed an underlying linear relationship between pictures with higher visual preference and lower net density. Common design elements observed from pictures with a high visual preference score and a relatively high net density value included: less front yard setback but relatively greater roof complexity, building complexity and entrance complexity than pictures with a lower visual preference score and a similarly high net density value. Six of nine demographic variables were found to significantly influence visual preference scores of survey respondents. Findings from this research may guide future land use planning and design policies in the City of Guelph. Methods employed by this research may serve as a model for other municipalities that may wish to consider local values in planning and design.