Effect of visual elements on Indoor soundscape perception in open-plan office

Abstract

This study examined the effect of changes in visual elements on spatial comfort and work productivity in the aspect of indoor soundscape perception in the open-plan office (OPO) sound environment. Various OPO visual stimuli were simulated using computer software (Unity 3D engine) to change the visual environment by varying variables such as worker density, window ratio, green ratio, and ceiling height. An interactive virtual reality environment was implemented to perform a specific task while experiencing the audio-visual stimuli combining the general OPO noise stimulus and the simulated OPO visual stimulus. Subjective evaluation was performed on a total of 30 subjects to evaluate indoor soundscape quality and work performance for each stimulus. Based on the results of this study, a pleasant OPO design guideline was proposed. Keywords: Open-plan office, indoor soundscape, interactive VR test, spatial comfort