Spatial factors affecting wayfinding and orientation in a shopping mall

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to study the main factors which affect the wayfinding and orientation of individuals in a shopping mall and explain how their behaviors are influenced by these factors. The spatial and individual factors and their properties are defined. Among the spatiaf factors, shape and dimensions, light and color, building configuration, visual accessibility, circulation systems, and signage are considered. Age, gender, occupation, disability, individual psychology and purpose(s) are analyzed as individual factors. Also, the relation between the shopping activity and wayfinding are discussed. The profile of a sample from the Turkish society is tried to be clarified through their wayfinding behaviors during shopping. Properties of a shopping mall is defined from the point of wayfinding, and a case study is conducted in Karum Shopping Center, Ankara.