Occupant experience of soundscapes in university office spaces

Abstract

For indoor soundscaping, identifying the relationship between soundscape perception and spatial experience and contributing factors is crucial. This study focuses on working environments and user interactions with the related soundscape variables, in university office spaces. Initially, a conceptual framework is established in order to evaluate the occupant’s spatial experience and soundscape perception. Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) methodology is adapted for data collection and analysis. A systematical procedure of POE has been conducted to collect the data in three levels; (1) indication, (2) investigation, and (3) diagnosis. The first POE stage on indication is carried out by observations on space characteristics and measurements of the physical environment. The structure of the case study design and POE methodology is explained and the initial findings are presented as part of this ongoing study