Soundscape Evaluation of Urban Interiors by Perceived Restorativeness Soundscape Scale-Prss

Abstract

Enhanced spatial experience should support well-being, decrease users' stress, and foster a healthy connection with their surroundings. This study aims to explore the mental restoration properties and soundscape quality of urban interior spaces by assessing the interaction between auditory and visual perception. A case study was conducted in two selected urban interior spaces, and on-site surveys were administered to 92 randomly selected participants. The findings indicate that individuals in the green-dominant environment rated both the soundscape and visual scenery more favorably than those in the gray-dominant setting. In contrast, participants in the gray-dominant space found the soundscape and visual scenery more disruptive. The study also revealed a strong correlation between audio-visual elements and spatial experience, with participants' perceptions of sound and visuals aligning closely. Additionally, based on the Perceived Restorativeness Soundscape Scale (PRSS), the green-dominant space exhibited higher perceived restorativeness soundscape quality scores than the gray-dominant space.