The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Space Pattern Changes in Buildings

Abstract

A COVID-19-pandemic has been spreading since early 2020 throughout the world. It has a serious impact on all aspects of human life and has an influence on changes in the pattern of human activitiesin buildings. This study aims to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the changes of occupant behavior and space pattern in buildings through a literature study, online information from the COVID-19 response team,and government and non-governmental organizations. The study results show that activities in buildings are closely related to the risk of spreading the virus, so a design strategy that responds to a pandemic is needed to reduce the risk of infection. It is necessary to develop an air ventilation system that can inhibit virus transmission, changes in spatial and circulation patterns to reduce the risk of transmission, and the selection of building materials that can inhibit the transmission process. Therefore, the role of architects and building designers is very important in realizing buildings that are responsive to pandemics. The results of this study can serve as inspiration for sustainable building design and response to pandemics in the future.