An Investigation on University Perception of Spatial Element Functionality of Irbid, Jordan

Designers have held varying views on the significance of corridors with curved ceilings, walls without a split-level design, a view of the outside makes people feel safe, and corridors in buildings concerning their functionality, and visual appeal [1, 2]. Designing corridors within the built environment, particularly focusing on functionality and visual appeal, has become more complex. A deep understanding of facility corridors is key to creating a quality design that shapes vital perceptions of the built environment. Designing public corridors solely as transportation spaces can result in several issues, such as limited functionality, dull spatial forms, and low utilization rates. This design process demands a creative blend of technology informed by both aesthetic and scientific considerations, ensuring successful functionality and aesthetics of corridors [3, 4]. Interior architects play a pivotal role in shaping the experiences of individuals within built environments. The most commonly associated with negatively perceived well-being effects are ‘in-between’ spaces, including stairwells, which can significantly impact users' perceptions of and interactions with their surroundings [5, 6]. In institutional settings such as educational facilities, these considerations are especially important, as the functionality and aesthetics of corridors can influence the overall atmosphere of the space and the well-being of its occupants [7, 8]. Previous studies have examined corridor spaces such as entrance halls, foyers, hallways, staircases corridor, and interstitial areas between functional spaces in relation to interior design and well-being, functions have appeared indirectly in the corridor. Although earlier research has examined corridor spaces generally, it frequently concentrates on either aesthetics or functional efficiency separately, without incorporating their effects on user experience and well-being holistically [9]. In order to evaluate well-being criteria in corridor design, this study introduces an empirical methodology that blends theoretical approaches with survey-based evaluations, going beyond traditional analyses. JUST research specifically looks at how changes to spatial elements, like lighting, furniture placement, and corridor width, improve usability and aesthetic appeal, which in turn increases user satisfaction and productivity [6].

Additionally, the study systematically assesses corridor space design using a novel well-being-centered framework. This study uses user perception surveys and post-occupancy evaluations to quantify design impacts, in contrast to previous research that frequently lacks a structured assessment model. In doing so, it contributes to architectural theory and real-world applications by providing helpful recommendations for enhancing corridor areas in educational institutions. By bridging the gap between well-being and spatial design, the study's methodological approach and analytical framework fill a clear research gap and significantly advance the field of interior architecture. Students’ social behaviors in such spaces, their social interactions, and their gathering areas are among the important issues of architectural programming and architectural design performance [10, 11]. This thing can indirectly affect human personal space, especially those that use the corridor for its main function; therefore, an efficient, practical layout for aesthetics is essential [12, 13]. An examination of all spaces has a symbolic and material component which together will decide the possibilities of creating space. Therefore, in order to understand space, cooperation with sociologists is important in the transformation of in‐between areas spaces from an interior architecture standpoint reveals a notable gap in the existing literature and calls for further research. Additionally, the role of well-being in shaping perceptions of essential corridor spaces within art and interior architecture faculties, as well as its impact on boosting user productivity, has been overlooked in the literature [14, 15]. This gap provided the impetus to focus on this area of research. Further, research into the relationship between functional needs, high environmental performance of interior corridors, formal design concepts, and key perception techniques reveals that technical solutions are crucial for achieving "aesthetic functionalism" in interior corridors. Consequently, a key issue in interior architecture is the lack of a clear and comprehensive understanding of how corridor space design influences users' productivity and well-being, as well as enhances their overall experience. There are no established standards for designing corridors that promote well-being. To address this, the paper will employ theoretical frameworks and survey questionnaires to analyze findings from JUST in Jordan. This approach will identify essential design features that should be considered and refined to cater to the requirements of corridor spaces in the faculties, using well-being criteria. The paper explores the performance of interior corridor components at (JUST), focusing on their functional use and efficiency, which is evaluated using a well-being-centered scale. This assessment can guide future research to improve the design of interior corridor spaces to better meet user needs. The primary objective is to investigate the connection between the creative integration of corridor space design and its impact on users' productivity and well-being, as evidenced through the planning and design of interior spaces. This research result can also use to consider the corridor space inside the department so that human interaction in a corridor space can be in accordance with human needs and aesthetic aspects in subsequent research.

The average of the data in this study survey response rate is 44% (a mean of 3.11), in accordance with the applied quality standards. The five dimensions' mean scores varied from 1.93 to 3.52, with the degree of satisfaction sorted in ascending order and stratification by levels according to dimension: visual appearance which indicates low levels of satisfaction with only 21.74 percent, size and shape of space with 28.7 percent which indicates good levels of satisfaction, space zoning with only 58.7 percent which indicates very good levels, ergonomics, air quality, temperature, and its well-being which shows very low levels of satisfaction with 19.3 percent, vital corridor spaces, and spatial configuration which indicates good levels with 33.3 percent. Table 3 and Figure 3 present the mean values of the opinions regarding the reality of the corridor space design with regard to the needs for well-being.

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Figure 3. Mean of the study

ANOVA shows significant satisfaction differences among various aspect (p < 0.05). The space zoning scored the highest in its mean satisfaction level (M = 3.52, SD = 0.56), whereas the lowest scores were those of ergonomics and air quality (M = 1.93, SD = 0.68), Post-hoc analysis shows that ergonomics differs notably from space zoning and visual appearances, suggesting that the areas of the design that are connected to people's comfort, so they are crucial for improvement.

Table 3. Descriptive statistics

The visual aspect of architectural studies underscores the importance of contextual integration, emphasizing how design elements distinguish buildings by their alignment with surroundings. Important considerations include orientation, openings, entrances, surrounding structures, and natural features. According to a survey, this dimension has a 21.74% satisfaction rate.

Architectural planning's spatial dimensions cover the functional, ergonomic, and psychological requirements in order to maximise human activity. For example, flexible layouts are necessary in multifunctional spaces in order to efficiently accommodate a variety of activities. 28.7% of respondents expressed satisfaction with these requirements (see Table 3).

With 58.7% of participants expressing satisfaction, space zoning stood out as an effective design for corridors that facilitate easy movement of users, especially for those with disabilities who need assistance navigating between classrooms and other faculty areas.

The ergonomics of interior design investigates the ways in which environmental elements impact both physical and mental health. Ensuring optimal task performance, while protecting health and safety is made possible by attending to ergonomic needs. However, Table 3 and Figure 3 show that this dimension had the lowest satisfaction rating, indicating the need for better-equipped corridor spaces to promote study-related interactions and collaboration.

Thermal comfort significantly impacts productivity and mood, with temperatures outside the comfort range posing health risks. Participants generally expressed dissatisfaction in this dimension.

Natural and artificial lighting profoundly affect emotional and physiological well-being, influencing circadian rhythms and task performance. Lighting patterns tailored to specific needs such as relaxation or activity can enhance user experience. Flexible, user-controlled electric lighting is essential for accommodating diverse preferences and activities.

Managing noise levels is crucial in corridor design to support activities, communication, relaxation, and concentration. An optimal acoustic environment positively contributes to overall well-being, though satisfaction levels varied, with 33.3% indicating positive responses (see Table 3 and Figure 3).

The variable “visual appearance” was assessed by subjective rating scales based on participant aesthetics, lighting quality, material finishes, and spatial coherence. The enumerators were required to quantify the participants’ mind about the issues of the corridor by rating their agreement using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree). This kind of approach may be straightforward and plausible since the personal aspects of spatial aesthetics are always considered in such environment psychology or architectural design studies referencing previous literature that assesses users' satisfaction with spatial aesthetics [3].

When it comes to the evaluation of the spatial size and shape, we used the physical dimensions of corridors in the study location (JUST). Nonetheless, the users' senses of space were also studied by the research team through questionnaires filled by the participants in which they had to decide if the corridor dimensions felt spacious to walk in, were too concluded, or were adequate enough. This combination of approaches allows for a correlation between the technical output and the user experience given these parameters.

One of the ergonomics of the furniture used was the user of the pieces of furniture. They consist of furniture placement, movement ease, and accessibility as the test criteria. The participants provided their subjective ratings on whether the corridor design also contributed to the functionality of movement, ease of seating and enclosure of the very room. Apart from this, the air condition and the temperature were both checked with the subject of environmental comfort being the point. Here, users rated those three aspects of the environment, the ventilation, and the thermal conditions and the noise based on their experiences, representing the environmental condition.

Given that JUST is situated in a hot climate, it is difficult to maintain a comfortable thermal environment, particularly in enclosed corridors without passive cooling strategies. Previous research indicates that poor air circulation and extreme temperatures significantly impact user well-being, productivity, and comfort [31]. Inadequate ventilation, poor thermal comfort, and limited seating options within corridor spaces are the main causes of the low satisfaction with ergonomics and air quality. Similarly, antiquated corridor designs devoid of natural elements, vivid colour schemes, or captivating aesthetics are probably associated with low satisfaction with visual appearance. Neutral and monotonous colour schemes are frequently linked to lower user engagement and environmental satisfaction, according to studies that demonstrate the significant impact of spatial aesthetics on psychological well-being [3].

Historical and cultural contexts also influence how corridor spaces are perceived. Public and semi-public areas are frequently created with a focus on social interaction and group gatherings in Middle Eastern architectural traditions [9]. However, efficiency is frequently given precedence over sociability in contemporary institutional corridor designs, which lowers user satisfaction and engagement. On the other hand, the region's traditional architectural designs place a strong emphasis on open-air, shaded transitional areas that enhance both aesthetic appeal and thermal comfort.

Additionally, the absence of adaptable seating arrangements or interactive corridor spaces at JUST may be in contrast to modern international campus designs that encourage informal learning zones [2, 5]. Global design trends also impact students' expectations of spatial quality, especially in higher education institutions that prioritise collaborative learning environments.

This comprehensive approach to architectural and interior design underscores the importance of integrating human-centered considerations to enhance user satisfaction and well-being within educational environments.

This study acknowledges that while several empirical findings align with theoretical expectations, certain discrepancies require further analysis. Although architectural ergonomics theories suggest that well-designed corridor spaces should enhance user comfort and well-being, one significant inconsistency is the low satisfaction with ergonomics and air quality (19.3%) [31]. Theoretically, wider corridors, well-placed furniture, and sufficient ventilation should all lead to greater levels of satisfaction. The empirical results, however, suggest otherwise, most likely as a result of contextual factors like Jordan's climate, where high temperatures and little natural ventilation may take precedence over accepted design guidelines. Participants' low ratings for this category may also be explained by institutional limitations like antiquated infrastructure and a lack of funding for corridor upgrades.

The higher-than-expected satisfaction with space zoning (58.7%) is another surprising finding, even though space syntax theories indicate that corridors primarily intended for transit are typically viewed as less functional [4]. The study's initial hypothesis was that lower satisfaction ratings would result from the absence of designated study and social areas in the corridors. Cultural factors, however, might explain why students at JUST might have lower expectations for corridor functionality because classroom spaces are given priority over transitional areas in traditional Middle Eastern educational buildings [9]. In addition, it's possible that participants are comparing corridor zoning to other less desirable university amenities, which could result in comparatively higher satisfaction rather than outright approval.

Future studies should compare with other international educational institutions, use observational methods to examine long-term corridor usage patterns, and integrate qualitative interviews to delve deeper into user perceptions in order to better understand these disparities. The discussion section will be updated to specifically address these discrepancies, offering a context-driven interpretation of the results along with useful suggestions for enhancing corridor design grounded in empirical knowledge.