AbstractsPsychology

This study focuses on the concept of bonus factors in office buildings. Bonus factors are those elements of a building which have positive psychological effects on the building user: the office employee. In a literature review, six bonus factors are found: daylight, outside view, the use of plants inside, a natural climate which is both adaptive towards the user and connected to the outdoor climate, individual control, and an effective alternation of private and common spaces. The literature review also reveals that a design approach which is both user-centered and evidence-based will lead to buildings with higher positive impacts on the occupants. From this literature review, the hypothesis emerged whether water could be employed as a bonus factor in office buildings as well. This is investigated by an extended literature review and the conducting of a survey and interviews. The extended literature review shows that the use of water elements in landscaping are confirmed to be highly restorative and attractive, and that water elements are applied in buildings in order to increase user experience. A survey conducted among more than 70 respondents shows that working environments with water elements are preferred highly for creative work types. Interviews with design experts reveals that under certain conditions, water can be applied effectively as a bonus factor in office buildings.