Identifying University Students’ Housing Perception and Spatial Behavior Changes after the COVID-19 Pandemic

As COVID-19 continued for a long time, containment and closure policies were implemented at the national level. The changes have tremendously impacted residential space. This study aims to analyze the changes in spatial behavior through daily activities in the New Normal era focusing on the physical and psychological aspects. The study targeted university students who took offline classes on housing concepts and theories. A survey was conducted firstly, and as a follow-up study, in-depth interviews were conducted. For the interview, students living with their parents were excluded. The results are as follows; first, even with smaller family sizes due to demographic changes and restrictions on space use and movement due to unpredictable events, more private spaces where people can interact with others should be planned near a residence. Second, because the existing structure of the residential environment has limitations in containing changed lifestyles and their experiences, more flexible plans must be considered to provide more adaptable spaces for various users.