Using Visual Preference Surveys to Inform Planting Design in Stormwater Planters
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Date
2018-08-25
Authors
Murphy, Brittany
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Abstract
Urban green stormwater infrastructure facilities come in many forms, which include
variation in the number and types of plant species. How plant diversity in stormwater
facilities is perceived and valued by the public, stormwater professionals, and designers
remains in question.
This project investigates whether plant diversity in small scale urban sites (curbside
stormwater planters) is preferred by local residents and designers, how this preference
might be related to overall attitudes about water management issues, and how the
preferences of current and future designers differ from local residents. This study consists
of two survey tests: a visual preference test, and an awareness and attitudes test. There are
three participant groups from Eugene, OR: residents living close to a stormwater planter,
stormwater professionals, and landscape architecture students at the University of Oregon.
The results reveal the respondents’ visual preference for plant diversity, understanding of
stormwater planter function, and their awareness of watershed issues.
Survey results were then used to inform proposed planting designs for a stormwater planter
in Eugene. I explore how designers can approach stormwater facility planting design in
ways that are responsive to both professional and public preferences.
Description
Examining committee chair: Dave Hulse
Keywords
Stormwater design, Visual preference, Survey, Planting design, Stormwater planters