Dynamic perception of transparency in architecture: mechanisms of the proper recognition of light permeable surfaces1

Abstract This paper examines the issue of transparency recognition in architecture from a dynamically changing point of view. A simple and intuitive pictorial model of the transparent surface appearance is presented, followed by a discussion of the transparency processing (mid- or high-level). Two zones of perception that determine the proper perception of light-permeable surfaces are distinguished, each with their own phenomena responsible for the formation of transparency perception cues (transmittance/absorbance or reflectance). The main visual processing mechanisms are discussed, and some parallels to machine vision are found. Finally, a short checklist is presented to provide practical advice for architects dealing with large surfaces of glass in their projects.