Evaluation of healthy indoor acoustic environments in residential buildings by the occupants: A mixed-method approach

With the well-established importance of healthy indoor acoustic environments, this study aims to investigate how occupants evaluate, understand, and characterise healthy indoor acoustic environments in residential buildings. A mixed-method approach with both qualitative and quantitative study designs was used. For the qualitative study, interview transcripts from 35 respondents were coded using a grounded theory approach. In the subsequent quantitative study, a questionnaire was developed based on the interview data, and the answers of 720 participants were analysed using structural equation modelling. The results presented the elements, conceptual framework, and evaluation model of a healthy indoor acoustic environment in residential buildings from the occupant's perspective. Among all elements, Attachment, Privacy, Autonomy, and Controllability were identified as the four characteristics of a healthy indoor acoustic environment at home. Controllability, which is the most significant factor (total effect size = 0.475), had a positive influence on the evaluation of healthy indoor acoustic environments in residential buildings by reducing negative emotions, physical discomfort, and behavioural disturbances caused by noise. Attachment also contributed favourably to the evaluation, particularly in individuals aged 18 to 29. The evaluation model varied according to gender and age. Women exhibited more complex evaluation mechanisms and diverse understandings than men, both of which tended to become simpler with age. The results of this study provide a theoretical reference for designing acoustic environments for healthy housing.