Spatial Factors Related to Occupants’ Behavioral Beliefs About Window and Blind Use in Multifamily Residential Buildings

Abstract

Occupant behavior is one of the factors that impact the buildings’ energy consumption. Occupants interact with building systems to adjust their indoor environmental conditions to meet their comfort levels. Occupants’ behavior to control those multiple conditions have been studied in isolation. Previous research highlighted the impact that contextual factors, such as interior design, have on occupants’ energy-related behaviors. This study focused on psychological, contextual, and environmental reasons leading to energy-related occupants’ behavior. It investigated the impact of spatial factors: orientation, floor level, space type, and furniture layout on occupants’ behavioral beliefs about operating windows and adjusting blinds. Results revealed a significant relationship between the spatial factors and occupants’ behavioral beliefs about operating windows and adjusting blinds. It is recommended to consider occupants’ behavioral beliefs related to the spatial factors in the preliminary stages of the design process to contribute to efficient space planning and thus enhance the building’s energy performance.