This study examines the application of Visual Attention Software (VAS) to enhance understanding of the Gestalt principle of proximity, specifically concerning verticality and symmetry. We hypothesize that VAS can refine our perception of proximity by providing objective measures of visual attention. Using curated images, VAS generated gaze sequences, hotspots, and heatmaps. The method was applied to architectural façades as a pilot study to explore its potential in real-world contexts. Findings reveal that vertical elements and symmetrical axes are prioritized during preattentive processing, followed by grouping nearby shapes. This study demonstrates that VAS can precisely quantify Gestalt principles, offering new insights into perception and potential applications for creating more visually compelling architectural designs. Further research is needed to explore these implications fully.
