Spatial Characteristics, Activity Composition, and Dwell Time in Campus Semi-Outdoor Spaces: A Case Study of Tokai University Shonan Campus

Semi-outdoor spaces on university campuses support circulation, temporary stays, and a range of everyday activities. This study presents an exploratory case study of four semi-outdoor study sites at Tokai University Shonan Campus in Japan, examining differences in activity composition and self-reported intended dwell time in relation to their spatial characteristics. The sites were documented using a common framework covering spatial dimensions and form, overhead and vertical configuration, lateral boundary conditions, access conditions, furniture and seating configuration, and surrounding functional conditions. Four survey rounds were conducted from November 2024 to July 2025 using the same survey procedure at all sites, yielding 189 valid responses. Activity composition differed among the four sites (Fisher–Freeman–Halton exact test, Monte Carlo p = 0.039; Cramér’s V = 0.184), as did the distribution of self-reported intended dwell time (p < 0.001; V = 0.234). Activity type was also associated with intended dwell time (p = 0.005; V = 0.274). Eating was the most common activity overall, while the proportions of studying, resting, conversation, and waiting varied among sites. However, these differences did not show a consistent relationship with any single spatial characteristic, including area, W/D ratio, spatial height, boundary configuration, or seating capacity. The findings suggest that campus semi-outdoor spaces should be interpreted through multiple spatial characteristics and surrounding functional conditions rather than a single spatial parameter. As an exploratory single-campus case study, this study provides a basis for broader comparative research.