VIRTUAL: Livable Cities – New York

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the behavioral responses of healthcare facility users to various biophilic design implications in a hospital lobby. A covert participant observation was conducted at three locations in a hospital lobby in Seoul, South Korea. All three locations were indoor resting areas that featured different biophilic design elements. The first site provided a window view to an outdoor green space, the second site had an indoor green wall and nature-themed artworks, and the third site was an indoor garden with a water feature. The observation was carried out for six days, including four weekdays and two weekend days, four hours a day. The observations found that participants showed different behavioral patterns to different biophilic designs. Specifically, participants at Site 1 focused more on personal matters, such as using electronic devices; participants at Site 2 showed a few interactive behaviors with the surrounding such as taking pictures of the biophilic features; participants at Site 3 engaged in more interactive behaviors with both the surrounding and other participants. In particular, they were more likely to have conversations with others, walked around, and showed a special interest in the water features. In summary, participants’ behaviors differed depending on biophilic design features. this study provided insights into how biophilic design can influence occupant behavior in a hospital lobby space that is frequently used by many patients and caregivers. The result suggested the way to provide positive distractions and relaxing environment by implementing various biophilic design features with multisensory experiences.