Combined Effects of Physical Environment Elements on the Perception and Comfort of Urban Public Open Space Users: A University Campus Case

Abstract

Aim: This study examines the effects of urban public spaces, which have physical environmental elements (heat, light, sound, etc.) that vary according to seasons and time of day, on the environmental assessments and quality of life of city residents. Objectively and subjectively investigating the combined effects of such multiple physical environmental elements on people's environmental perception and thermal, auditory, visual and general comfort can make significant contributions to the design and application fields. Method: The study is based on a field study conducted in two open areas with different physical environmental elements on a university campus in Eskişehir. In this context, the difference between objective parameters of various physical environmental elements on the campus (temperature, humidity, sound pressure level, brightness level, etc.) and subjective evaluations obtained from surveys about users' perception and comfort of the physical environment (thermal, auditory, visual and general comfort evaluations). The relationship was examined with statistical analysis. Results: Research results show that horizontal-vertical brightness level, temperature, relative humidity and sky visibility have a significant effect on general comfort. However, the effect and type of effect of sound pressure level and wind speed on general comfort have not been determined. Conclusion: As design input, overhead cover elements and mobile seating units are recommended as improvement strategies that can be developed to increase the general comfort level of campus open spaces. This study can provide valuable guidance in the design and management of urban public spaces.