Quantifying inner corridor space design elements for embedded retirement facilities based on eye-tracking

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Environmental Psychology
• Architectural Design

Background:

• Embedded retirement facilities (ERFs) integrate resources and services within communities.
• Inner corridors in ERFs are primary circulation spaces but often lack stimulating design.
• Monotonous and enclosed corridor designs can negatively impact older adults' social interaction and psychological well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze spatial tension and behavioral accommodation in ERF inner corridor nodes.
• To identify design elements influencing older adults' spatial experience and environmental perception.
• To develop a workflow for extracting and prioritizing spatial design elements using eye-tracking technology.

Main Methods:

• Systematic identification and analysis of typical inner corridor spatial configurations in ERFs.
• Integration of eye-tracking technology with subjective assessment methods.
• Quantitative examination of correlations between eye movement indices and subjective satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Key spatial design elements influencing visual attention and satisfaction were extracted across spatial interface, atmosphere, and facilities.
• Correlations between older adults' eye movement patterns and their subjective satisfaction were quantitatively analyzed.
• Prioritization of critical spatial design elements for enhancing corridor environments was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The study provides an evidence-based foundation for improving the spatial experience in ERF inner corridors.
• A generalized workflow for extracting spatial design elements using eye-tracking technology was proposed.
• Practical guidance is offered for architects and designers to create more engaging and comfortable circulation spaces for older adults.