Investigating the Impact of Perceived Physical Dimensions of Open Spaces on Social Interactions with the Mediating Role of Nature and Furniture Quality (Case Study: Somayeh (S) Girls' High School, Tehran)
Subject Areas :
Nastaran Nasiri
1
,
Ali Mashhadhi
2
1 - M.Sc. Student in Architecture Engineering, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
2 - Assistant Professor of Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
Keywords: Physical dimensions of open spaces, Social interactions, Furniture quality, Nature, Educational environment design.,
Abstract :
This study examines the impact of perceived physical dimensions of open spaces on the social interactions of students in girls' high schools, with a focus on the mediating role of nature and furniture quality. Open spaces in schools play a vital role in the holistic development of students, yet the precise impact of the physical dimensions of these spaces on social interactions, especially in girls' high schools, has been underexplored. The main objective of this research is to understand how the physical dimensions of open spaces influence students' social interactions and to examine the mediating role of natural elements and furniture quality in this relationship. A case study approach was adopted, focusing on Somayeh (S) Girls' High School in Tehran. Data were collected through questionnaires, field observations, and semi-structured interviews with students and staff, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results indicate that a proper understanding of the physical dimensions of open spaces has a positive and significant effect on students' social interactions. Moreover, the presence of natural elements and high-quality furniture enhances this effect as mediating factors. The findings suggest that intelligent design of open spaces, considering physical dimensions along with the inclusion of natural elements and quality furniture, can significantly improve students' social interactions and learning experiences. This study provides practical recommendations for designers, school administrators, and educational policymakers to create more favorable learning environments for female students by leveraging these findings. Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of addressing the specific needs of female students in the design of educational spaces and paves the way for further studies in this field.