Correlations between color attributes and children's color preferences

This study examined the role of color attributes (lightness and saturation) on children's color preferences for interior room colors. It also investigated children's most preferred colors among each of the five major hue families in the Munsell color system using scale‐models. Previous color preference studies have typically been done with small color chips or papers, which are very different from seeing a color applied on wall surfaces. A simulation method allowed for investigating the value of color in real contexts and controlling confounding variables. Forty‐five color samples were displayed on scale‐models to 63 children ages 7–11 years old. This study identified children's most preferred colors among each of the five major hue families in Munsell color system. It also demonstrated that saturation was positively correlated with children's preferences in the red, green, blue, and purple hue families. In the yellow hue family, interestingly, lightness has a positive correlation with preferences. Children's gender differences were found in that girls prefer red and purple more than boys. These findings lead to color application guidelines for designers to understand better color and eventually to create improved environments for children and their families. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 39, 452–462, 2014     

Influence of lighting conditions on the appearance of typical interior materials

Two studies investigated how lighting influences perception of various materials. Experiment 1 focused on preferences of cold or warm light. Participants' task was to indicate preference for either coolish or warmish light for 20 different materials. The selection included materials typically used for wall or floor of interior spaces. Different hues and surface characteristics were present. Specifically two materials of blue color (cold hue) were preferred in a cold light while red carpet (warm hue) and synthetic turf materials were preferred in warm light. This latter choice was explained by automatic reference of synthetic turf to the appearance of natural grass. There were no clear light source preferences for other materials. Experiment 2 explored how the same 20 materials are evaluated under LED lighting in comparison to three other lighting situations (halogen lamp, high‐intensity discharge lamp, and compact fluorescent lamp). The results of this explorative study were not conclusive. The materials chosen for this experiment differed greatly in their structure and optical properties. In conclusion, light influence on the evaluation of materials needs systematic investigation in future research. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 40, 50–61, 2015     

Color preference affected by mode of color appearance

Most color preference research focuses on colors in an object color mode. In our daily life, however, colors are perceived not only as an object color mode but also as other modes, such as unnatural object color and light source color modes. To explore the effect of the color appearance mode on color preference, we examined the relationship between color preference and the mode of color appearance. Thirty‐three color chips were chosen from the Munsell notation varying in hues and chromas. The color chips were presented in different color appearance modes by changing the subject's room illuminance and the color chip room illuminance. The experimental results showed that the brightest and most saturated colors were preferred. It was found that the subject preferred color in a light source color mode and unnatural object color mode to color in an object color mode. Moreover, we found that hue had a small effect on color preference in the light source color mode. We also investigated the relationship between color preference and the perceived color attributes (perceived chromaticness, whiteness, and blackness). In a supplementary experiment, elementary color naming was conducted. The results showed that the perceived chromaticness, perceived whiteness, and perceived blackness play a role for the determination of color preference for different color appearance modes. We, consequently, suggest that color preference is dominated not only by color attributes but also by the mode of color appearance. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2010     

Study on the preference of city color image selection based on the logistic model: A case study of Shanghai

With the continuous progress of urbanization, China's urban color planning has begun to receive attention, but there are still many problems in the quality of color environment. In order to clarify further the urban color positioning of our country, the detailed urban color planning objectives are set up, and the opinions of residents with different attributes are included in the consideration scope of urban color planning objectives, so as to guide the future urban color planning scientifically. From the perspective of urban residents' preference, this article takes Shanghai as an example to analyze the difference of residents' preference for urban color selection with different attributes. In this article, the logistic regression model was used to analyze the results of residents' choice, so as to conclude that the significant factors influencing residents' preference for city color image include age, monthly income, current city of residence, frequency of coming to Shanghai and whether they have been to other countries. Therefore, paying attention to the above significant attributes of residents and carrying out in-depth research can provide reference value for the status of the city's future color image.     

Colored apparel and its potential influence on heterosexual attraction

The objective of this study is to determine if men would follow the “red effect” when choosing colors for women to wear on a date, and also to determine if the colors that men would wear when going on a date would be the same as the colors that females (their date) would wish them to wear. A set of psychophysical data was generated from this experiment, where participants were asked to rank a set of 10 colored samples based on preference for each question asked. There were three different sets of colored samples. The set of colored samples given to the participant depended on the question. A total of five questions were asked. Scaling analysis was done on the data to organize a set of items according to preferences providing values, an interval scale (Z values), that correspond to the relative perceptual differences among the stimuli. The Z values were graphed to show the general preference of colors for women to wear, and the preference of colors for men to wear. A Spearman's rank-order correlation coefficient (SRCC) was calculated comparing each individual's rank order with the mean rank order for that specific question. An average Spearman's rank order was calculated for each question and each gender in order to determine the variability in answers. Scaling results indicate that men follow the “red effect,” but women preferred to wear other colors such as turquoise, blue, or yellow depending on the outfit. Males and females agreed that no matter the colored bottoms (denim or black), blue was the preferred color top for men to wear. SRCC results showed a lot of variability between individual answers and the mean answer indicating that participants' rankings did not necessarily agree with general color preferences presented in the scaling analysis. While scaling analysis might suggest certain color preferences such as men following the “red effect” and women preferring to wear blue, the poor correlation found using SRCC between the individual answers and the mean rank orders suggests that color preferences for each individual are inherently unique.     

Research on color optimization of tricolor product considering color harmony and users' emotion

There are few studies on the tricolor design optimization, and the influence of color-area ratio on users' emotion has been ignored. This article aims to achieve multiobjective optimization of tricolor product color design. Two modes of color-area ratio are put forward. Using the proposed method of generating tricolor schemes, 368 tricolor schemes of the representative baby carriage are designed. Through questionnaire survey, color images are screened, and combined with correlation analysis and factor analysis, five perceptual features of color design are determined as “Order,” “Excitement,” “Temperature,” “Color harmony,” and “Users' emotional preference.” From two perspectives of color information processing, radial basis function neural networks are used to construct two emotional evaluation models. By integrating the radial basis function neural networks and a genetic algorithm, this study achieves multiobjective optimization of tricolor product color design for two optimization objectives of color harmony and users' emotional preference. Verification results show that the optimization schemes are significantly better than other schemes. Due to similar product characteristics, children's electric car is utilized to verify the generalization capability of the optimization method proposed in this article. It has been demonstrated that the optimization schemes achieve higher scores than randomly selected color schemes and the actual subjective scores match with the predicted scores computed by the color optimization method.     

Preference for accent and background colors in interior architecture in terms of similarity/contrast of natural color system attributes

Color combination criteria are said to entail an affective response in interior design. We investigated the color combination criteria that orient the preference of current observers, after Le Corbusier's 1931 Salubra keyboards. We explored the similarity/contrast in Natural Color System (NCS) hue, blackness, and chromaticness in 312 combinations with four colors, two backgrounds and two accent colors, coming from 43 individual colors, on the walls of a simulated interior of a bedroom from the Swiss Pavilion (Le Corbusier, 1930-1931). Participants were 644 students of architecture and interior design in Western Europe and Near East, who evaluated with a Likert scale their preference for virtual images via an online survey. Results indicate that the most preferred color combinations are those with hues closer in the color wheel, being the similarity between hues in the backgrounds more important than in the accent colors, and with NCS B30G to G as the most preferred hues. Observers preferred color compositions with blackness under 10% and similar blackness between the two background colors, together with a certain blackness contrast between these background colors and the two color accents. Similarly, observers liked color compositions with low chromaticness and low chromaticness difference among the four colors of the composition.     

Review and evaluation of color spaces for image/video compression

A color space plays an important role in color image processing and color vision applications. While compressing images/videos, properties of the human visual system are used to remove image details unperceivable by the human eye, appropriately called psychovisual redundancies. This is where the effect of the color spaces' properties on compression efficiency is introduced. In this work, we study the suitability of various color spaces for compression of images and videos. This review work is undertaken in two stages. Initially, a comprehensive review of the published color spaces is done. These color spaces are classified and their advantages, limitations, and applications are also highlighted. Next, the color spaces are quantitatively analyzed and benchmarked in the perspective of image and video compression algorithms, to identify and evaluate crucial color space parameters for image and video compression algorithms.     

Omega‐3 and sleep: New insights from the DHA Oxford Learning and Behaviour (DOLAB) study

Does dietary intake of omega‐3 DHA influence children's sleep? Sleep problems affecting 40% of UK schoolchildren aged 7–9 years were reported in a recent University of Oxford study and lower blood concentrations of omega‐3 DHA predicted more serious sleep problems in these otherwise healthy, normal children. In a randomised controlled trial, dietary supplementation with omega‐3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) for 16 weeks improved parent‐rated sleep in children with such problems. Furthermore, objectively measured sleep duration was increased by almost one hour by DHA vs placebo.     

A User‐Oriented Method for Preferential Color Scheme Generation

Harmony and preference are two important factors in constructing color combination for the purpose of color design. We presented a method for generating harmonious color scheme in a previous project. As an extension to the project, we propose here a method for generating color schemes that are based on user's preference. We considered color combinations as a set of color relations rather than a summation of specific color components (color elements); and we derived a model of six‐variable color relations, representative value of hue, representative value of saturation, representative value of lightness, span of hue, span of saturation, and span of lightness. With this model, color combinations can be expressed as specific parameters of the six‐variable model. Individual preferences are represented as certain parameters, from which new color schemes can be reconstructed to meet individual requirements. An interactive system for generating preferential color schemes is built with all these principles integrated. As a color design toolkit for user study, the system accesses user's preference features for color combinations, and provides new color schemes that fit the user's need. User study shows that both professionals and novices can generally acquire preferential color schemes of their own. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 40, 147–156, 2015     

硬木家具上蜡装饰表面耐光性研究

为研究不同上蜡工艺装饰后硬木家具表面的耐光性,本文以大果紫檀为基材,分别对其传统烫蜡材、溶剂型漆托蜡材与水性漆托蜡材等3种上蜡工艺装饰的木材进行紫外光加速照射,测定在光照过程中其表面颜色、光泽、纹理等变化,并利用傅里叶红外光谱观察不同上蜡材表面的化学组成及光照中化学成分的变化。结果表明:溶剂型漆托蜡材与水性漆托蜡材的耐光性优于传统烫蜡材;而且,传统烫蜡涂层可在短时间内延缓木材的老化,长时间的光照下蜡层基本失去了保护作用。     

Hue,saturation, lightness,and building exterior preference: An empirical study in Turkey comparing architects' and nonarchitects' evaluative and cognitive judgments

This study investigated architects' and nonarchitects' evaluative and cognitive judgments of color on building exteriors. Thirty architects and 30 high school teachers living in Izmir, Turkey participated in the study. The experiment had two phases. First, participants viewed eight images, in which the color of a building exterior was manipulated with hues selected from HSB (hue, saturation, and brightness) color space. Participants were then asked to rate each image on 7‐point semantic differential scales measuring preference (like–dislike), arousal (arousing–sleepy), naturalness (natural–artificial), and relaxation (relaxing–distressing). Second, participants viewed the same building in nine saturation and lightness levels for each hue and picked the most preferred lightness and saturation level for each hue. Findings showed that for a building exterior: (1) yellow and blue were the most liked colors, (2) some hues were rated as more arousing, more natural, and more relaxing over the others, (3) gender had an effect on color preference and semantic ratings of naturalness and relaxation, (4) architects and nonarchitects differed in their color preference and semantic ratings of arousal and naturalness, and (5) full bright and moderate to low saturated colors and full saturated and moderate to high bright colors were preferred more. The results have practical implications for architects and urban designers. A successful coloration of a building exterior may increase its use frequency and economical value. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 33, 395–405, 2008     

Influences of psychological factors on image color preferences evaluation

To bring substantial benefits of image designing for image designers and image processing professionals, this study focused on the image samples taken by digital cameras and tried to explore the influence of psychological factors on image color preference. First, we collected 310 questionnaires to investigate the types of image that interest the people in Taiwan. The images that Taiwanese prefer were categorized into seven types: People, Scenery, Artificial Environment, Plants, Animals, Still Life, and Food. Then, based on the results of this survey, total 81 images were collected. Next, six psychological factors (Color Memory, Color Comfort, Colorfulness, Color Harmony, Color Image, Concerned Area) on image color preference were identified by the Delphi method and literature review and then developed into another survey. A total of 150 people, as subjects, took this survey and gave their evaluation according to their image color preferences. Finally, using multiple regression statistics, this study discussed the relationship between psychological factors and image color preferences. This study discovered that each psychological factor plays a different role in different image categories. For instance, Color Comfort plays the most influential role in the Scenery image. Color Harmony is influential in the Food and Plants image. Concerned Area, likewise, is important in the image categories of People, Artificial Environment, and Still Life. Based on the results of this research, it is suggested to take psychological factors into consideration when dealing with different image categories in obtaining the best color performance of images. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2010     

Exploring compatible facility colors and associated colors for outdoor recreational spaces

Many studies have demonstrated that people associate customary colors to buildings and facilities, and these colors significantly influence people's evaluations of the environment. However, whether customary colors also exist in the environments where building facilities have been installed is rarely discussed. Using correspondence analysis, this study explored the colors associated with five different outdoor recreational spaces (theme parks, national parks, recreational farms, riverside parks, and historic heritage sites) and fitted facility colors. The study acquired a valid sample of 103 college students and demonstrated that people judge colors in recreational spaces according to past experience and their impressions of the spaces. Hue, value, and saturation are not independent factors for color consideration; a color with a specific value and saturation is particularly suitable for some spaces. In addition, the color associated with an environment and the compatible color for facilities are not exactly the same. The possible factors that influence different environment colors and future research directions were also discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 41, 424–432, 2016     

Exploring color attractiveness and its relevance to fashion

Many studies have been conducted on the phenomenon of color preference, with the aim of identifying the key color preferences. Most of the previous studies have been placing blue in the most preferred position and green-yellow in the least preferred position. This study was conducted online and aims to showcase new color preference trends in the digital age. The colors selected for this study were based on the colors most frequently mentioned in previous color studies. Here, we show an evaluation using 14 Pantone colors as stimuli on the sample of (N = 146) participants based on pairwise adjectives (attractive-unattractive). Principal component analysis and other multivariate statistics were used to examine participants' color attractiveness. In addition, gender and age were examined to determine if they had an impact on color attractiveness ratings. Results show that participants tend to prefer distinctive colors (black, pink, yellow), but there are slight differences in preferences that could be related to the influence of gender and age.     

An evaluation of the impact of exemptions to the children's sleepwear flammability standards on burn injuries to children

In 1996, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) amended the children's sleepwear flammability standards to exempt sleepwear sized for infants aged nine months or younger and tight‐fitting sleepwear for older children. The amendments were developed in response to an apparent preference for untreated cotton garments by many parents and difficulties in enforcing the pre‐amendment standards. However, they were adopted only after CPSC concluded that they would provide consumers a wider selection of children's sleepwear without diminishing the protection provided by the pre‐amendment standards. The amendments became effective in 1997, but remained controversial, with some interested parties believing that the exemptions would substantially reduce the level of safety for children. To address these concerns, and in cooperation with the American Burn Association and Shriners Hospitals for Children, the CPSC initiated a national study of child clothing‐related burn injuries treated in burn center hospitals. From 2003 through 2005, the CPSC collected information on 475 such injuries. This study evaluates the burn center data to help determine the safety effects of the amendments to the sleepwear standards. The results provide no evidence of increased risk of burn injury associated with the exemptions from the sleepwear standards. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Why only blue in the traditional architecture of western Himalaya,India?

The local environment defines the traditional designs and color of buildings in remote wilderness areas. Color, an integral element of the traditional architecture, is related to the culture, experience, perception, and beliefs, which forms a part of the traditional knowledge of the user. Some ethnic groups have been using some specific color patterns in their houses for generations, which have been carried forward in their traditions and customs. Recognizing this, a study to document the color preference and motivations for the preference of specific colors by an ethnic community residing in the interior valleys of western Himalaya was conducted. By group discussions, 13 indicators, which further merged into five motivation categories, were identified. Semistructured interviews (n = 159) were conducted to assess the perception of selected ethnic groups toward color preference. This study reveals that color preference in architecture is influenced by psychological and sociocultural reasons that vary with gender and age classes.     

Solving the soft furnishings fire problem (without incurring collateral damage)

Fires in which soft furnishings (upholstered furniture and beds) were either the first item ignited or were identified as the major item in the fire's growth are the deadliest of residential fires. This Special Issue of Fire and Materials on Furniture Flammability grew from a small session on this subject in Interflam 2019. The issue contains 14 papers that describe the fire problems of soft furnishings, research to better understand their burning behavior, and recent success in and promising approaches to reducing the losses from these fires. This introduction concludes with the author's challenges to the fire safety community for reducing the number and consequences of soft furnishings fires.     

Hue,chroma, and lightness preference in Chinese adults: Age and gender differences

Recent studies have shown cultural differences in color preference. However, the color preference of people in China, which was found to have its own pattern, was yet to be studied in depth. The current study investigated color preference and the associated age and gender differences in an adult national sample (N = 1290) to provide a culture‐specific characteristic of color perception. Participants rated how much they liked each of 31 colors (four chroma‐lightness levels of red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, blue, and purple, plus three achromatic colors). We found a unique saturated color preference pattern characterized by red, cyan, and blue being preferred the most and orange as the least preferred chromatic color. The “red preference” phenomenon was observed in Chinese adults. Light colors were preferred the most in terms of chroma‐lightness level, followed by saturated, muted, and dark colors. The results of a principal component analysis of the 28 chromatic colors showed that blue‐green‐like colors (cool colors) constituted the largest proportion of color preference. The preference for orange and several dark colors increased with age, while that for bluish colors, purple, yellow, white, black, and light colors decreased. In terms of gender, women liked cyan, white, pink, and light colors and disliked red, orange, and dark colors more than men did. Our findings provide new empirical evidence about the color preference of Chinese and may offer some insight into the study of color preference and lay the foundations for future theoretical and practical research.     

An overview and experimental analysis of furniture fire safety regulations in Europe

The regulation requirements for upholstered furniture are nationally defined and lead to very different safety levels across Europe. This paper studies the fire performance of upholstered furniture across Europe and demonstrates the differences in the fire safety of sofas in different countries. Real sofas were purchased over Europe and tested first alone then for several of them in a room scenario. The fire performance of such upholstered furniture is related to their constitution and possibly to the improvement of their performance by physical and/or chemical means. Results are presented from a performance point of view and not focusing on the different technical solutions that can be envisaged, such as fire barriers or flame retardants. The results clearly show the effect of stricter regulations, not necessarily on the maximum heat release but mainly on the time available to escape, which is critical in many fire scenarios. Such regulations may have a positive effect, but they have to be performance-based, evaluated properly, and implemented considering market surveillance.