Spatial User Experience: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Assessing Physical Settings

Abstract

In the fields of Product Design and Human–Computer Interaction, the term User Experience has been used to describe the interaction with products and systems. The largest product that humans interact with is the built environment. We use the built environment constantly for various functions. Based on a thorough review of the literature from multiple disciplinary sources, we introduce a model of Spatial User Experience (SUE), in which we define six dimensions as the main influential factors of the User Experience. These dimensions are categorized into two groups: (1) Ergonomic‐Instrumental, including Spatial Cognition, Physical Compatibility, and Environmental Compatibility; and (2) Affective, comprising Emotional Reaction, Spatial Appreciation, and Proxemics. Furthermore, the User Experience influences behavioral responses, which will depend on the context and the activity performed. The model aims to be flexible enough to be applied in different physical settings. Its purpose is to contribute to the theory building in User Experience and Interior Design and to provide a foundation for empirical research. Future studies will be able to further validate the relationships defined in the model in diverse physical settings, identifying the dimensions that have greater impact on the User Experience. Ultimately, it is our objective to orient practitioners in the design of places that foster positive experiences and well‐being.

Guest Editorial: Investigating the effect of the physical context on customer experience

“…Indeed, there is evidence of researchers drawing on multiple disciplines in theory-building e.g. (Nehme et al ’s (2020) spatial user experience framework) to bring insights into this area. Examples of nonmarketing fields upon which researchers might draw in future studies of the effect of the physical context on customer experience include environmental psychology, design, neuroscience, behavioral science, urban ecology and health and well-being.…”

“…The design literature recognizes that a physical setting can be designed to facilitate a positive experience for different types of users: the customer, resident, employee or tourist, depending on the context (Nehme et al, 2020). Design can favor certain demographics, and researchers have highlighted the contrasting experiences of different groups in physical settings; physical spaces can be gendered (Adams, 2004;Kern, 2020) and racialized (Tuttle, 2022).…”

Recognition Memory for Interior Spaces with Biomorphic or Non–Biomorphic Interior Architectural Elements

“…While spatial memory, and the closely related process of spatial cognition, would seem to be central to discourse within interior design research, only three articles in the Journal of Interior Design operationalized these concepts in relation to interior space (Cho & Suh, 2021; Juliá Nehme et al, 2020, 2021). Our study solidly brings the rich tradition of research on spatial memory from psychology into the interior design milieu.…”

Waiting Room Physical Environment and Outpatient Experience: The Spatial User Experience Model as Analytical Tool

“…Following this principle, the PC dimension refers to the fit between the setting's physical demands and user characteristics. Whereas furniture design is frequently the most relevant factor for PC, accessibility conditions to interact with all elements in the space should also be considered (Juli a Nehme et al, 2020).…”

“…These dimensions are the main factors that influence the UX. Moreover, the UX affects behavioral responses (BR) (Juli a Nehme et al, 2020). Because most healthcare services are delivered in physical settings, the SUE can be understood as a component of the overall patient experience.…”