Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Assisstant professor of architecture, dept of civil engineering and architecture, malayer university, hamadan, iran
2 Bachelor's degree graduate, Dept. of Civil Engineering and Architecture, faculty of architecture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran
3 Assistant professor. Dept. of Civil Engineering and Architecture, faculty of architecture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran.
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to identify and compare types of openings and determine the most desirable mesh and vegetation patterns to improve the quality of life and increase student satisfaction in student dormitories.
Research Method: This field and quantitative research was conducted with the participation of 40 students (32 girls and 8 boys, 18 to 26 years old), and data were collected through online questionnaires.In this study, the dimensions of the dormitory room under study were 4 x 4 meters and 3 meters high with a main opening of 1.8 x 1.5 meters. Finally, in order to measure the effect of the openings, 8 opening models with equal areas (except for one whose area was doubled) were modeled in SketchUp software.Each opening model was evaluated by incorporating 3 types of lattices and different plant positions (hanging and potted), which produced a total of 72 simulated images and was evaluated by 40 students living in the dormitory.The dependent variables of the present study were quality of life indicators including lighting, view and landscape, connection with nature, supervision, and satisfaction. In order to compare the means of the variables under study, the Kruskal-Wallis test and statistical graphs were used.
Results and Discussion: The results of the mean comparison tests (Kruskal-Wallis) indicated a significant difference in quality of life (its sub-indices) when changing the type of opening, the allocation of mesh, and vegetation on the openings, indicating that the independent variables manipulated and simulated in the present study are among the influential variables in the design of openings in student residences.
Conclusion: The results generally indicated that the dimensions of the opening and its enlargement were considered the most effective component in terms of satisfaction from the students' point of view. It is recommended that designers prioritize larger openings—while accounting for climatic factors, privacy (overlooking issues), and safety—to create natural frames and optimal views from within the space. Furthermore, regarding the design of openings in student dormitory, the study offers recommendations to designers—such as utilizing convex lintels and incorporating latticed walls featuring small square or plus-shaped perforations. These screens should extend from the bottom of the window to its midpoint—rather than covering the entire opening—and integrate hanging plants or flowerpots into the lattice pattern. This approach fosters a connection with nature, ensures adequate natural light, and controls visibility from the outside while avoiding excessive obstruction of the view from within.
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