Building performances in open and enclosed spaces: a method for balancing operational costs and space utilization with a focus on user needs and satisfaction

The goal of this study is to demonstrate a 'proof of concept' for a comprehensive methodological tool that helps architects and building operators distinguish building functions according to their initial investment costs for interiors, utilization rates, and use qualities. For a given building, the method examines the ratio between enclosed and open spaces, i.e. mono-purpose spaces versus open, flexible, multi-purpose spaces. From here, the method systematically collected and synthesized normalized features to compare and balance operational costs and utilization with user needs and satisfaction. To demonstrate the method, we apply it to a newly constructed university building in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. For this case example, initial investment and operation costs for interior and technical equipment are drawn from space inventories and are then supplemented with space-utilization rates from sensors and booking reference systems. User feedback from the distinct spaces are then integrated into the assessment metrics, forming the baseline for improving the ratio between open and enclosed spaces within higher education facilities. Our findings suggest that increasing the proportion of open spaces would lead to both economic benefits and improved experience for buildings users. This can enhance the design, maintenance and refine interior spaces so that they are more dynamic and able to meet the increasing trend for more flexible and self-directed space use.