Use of biometric data and EEG to assess architectural quality of two office spaces: a pilot experiment

Architecture's reach into neuroscience has demonstrated the value of biometric data, particularly neurophysiological data captured through the use of portable electroencephalography (EEG) technology, in understanding users’ physiologic responses to spaces. While methods employing portable EEG technology are increasingly being used to study a variety of everyday settings, office environments have not yet been the subject of such studies. To address this gap, we used portable EEG sensors and heart rate monitors to conduct a pilot-scale, quasi-experiment of office occupants in their space and then again when that group relocated to new space several months later. Our findings revealed that users experienced the new office, particularly its café space, in a more relaxed way compared to the old office, suggesting that neurophysiologic data can be used in describing the effects of design features and affordances. When conducted before and after an office space redesign, biometric studies of office users broaden the methodological diversity of post-occupancy evaluations. We reflect on the significance of our findings, given our pilot approach and limited sample size, with respect to biometric data's role in the design of mixed methods post-occupancy evaluations. We also reflect on directions for future research of office environments.