Grading the color criterion in infill buildings based on similarity-to-contrast approaches

Purpose This study seeks to clarify the range of approaches from similarity to contrast in infill buildings, specifically in relation to the color aspect of the new building compared to that of the historical one. This explanation takes the form of a classification system we’ve named “degrees of change.” We further divided this classification into three sub-criteria: hue, brightness and color saturation. Design/methodology/approach Using a descriptive-analytical research method, we initially conducted a content analysis to extract the pertinent concepts in infill building approaches. Given the wide variation in infill building approaches, we reorganized these into five main categories along a spectrum from similarity to change by affinity diagram technique. Next, we used logical reasoning to describe the five degrees of change in the color criterion of the infill building. Findings We explained each of the similarity-to-contrast approaches of infill buildings for three color sub-criteria. By providing a clear and tangible explanation for each similarity-to-contrast approach based on color, we can facilitate better decision-making by architects when selecting the most suitable approach. Additionally, our utilization of digital color technology opens up opportunities for more precise color analyses of infill buildings. Originality/value Numerous approaches have been suggested for the design of infill buildings, but the clear delineation of these approaches based on specific criteria has been relatively overlooked. A key consideration when designing a new structure adjacent to a historical one is color, an area where prior research has been lacking.