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.