Understanding user evaluation structures for wooden frames in open-plan offices: a quantitative and qualitative study

Abstract This study aimed to explore the psychological effects of wooden frames and interiors in open-plan offices (OPO) and to understand the evaluation structure associated with wooden materials. A combination of quantitative subjective evaluations and qualitative interviews was conducted, utilizing the Evaluation Grid Method (EGM) to understand participants’ evaluation structure and criteria for wooden OPO. The study involved 20 Japanese participants who evaluated 16 computer-generated images of OPO, designed with varying factors related to wood placement, material, and spatial elements. Findings revealed that OPO utilizing wooden columns and beams significantly enhances users’ willingness to use the office compared to those without. Notably, the combination of wood’s placement and other spatial elements is critical rather than the mere quantity of wood. Furthermore, the study reveals that factors such as age and gender affect the willingness to use OPO suggesting that different user attributes may lead to varying perceptions of comfort and privacy. The results indicated that while the evaluation criteria for assessing spaces were generally shared across participants, the relative importance of specific items varied depending on user attributes. This study offers valuable insights into the complex evaluation structures related to wooden office spaces, contributing to the growing field of research on wooden interiors.