Effects of Form and Size of a Raised Floor Area on Spatial Impressions and Subject Behavior

This study considers the effect that form and size of a raised floor area have on spatial impressions and behavior. In two experiments, subjects were free to move about spaces in which the shape (3 variations) and size (25-75%) of a raised floor area were altered between experiences. In experiment 1, subjects were then asked their impressions on 6 topics (i.e. how many spaces were perceived, sense of confinement, concern for floor level differences, tendency to sit on edge of raised area, comfort level, which part is considered as the main space). In experiment 2, subject behavior (whether sitting or standing, and position) was recorded only by observation. The results show that for all three shapes, spatial impressions and behavior were different when the raised area was up to about 40-45% of total, than when it was larger.