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Spatial Design I / Task 2 Site analysis and User research for UX-Focused Campus Spatial Design

Campus Resting Area and Observation Deck Design: Enhancing User Experience and Protecting Ecosystems

    This document outlines a project aimed at creating a multifunctional resting area and observation deck that combines user-centric design, ecological protection, and cultural integration. Below is a comprehensive summary and analysis of the content.

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Project Overview

Goal:

  • Design a multifunctional space that caters to rest and observation while emphasizing the Yellow Duck Festival.

Location:

  • Open area behind the campus lake, currently occupied by cement steps near the student center.

Key Features:

  • Resting area.
  • Observation deck.
  • Cultural displays integrated with the natural environment.

Site Analysis

Current State:

  • Located behind the campus lake near the student center, currently a cement step area.

Issues:

  1. Lack of designated areas for study, relaxation, and social activities.
  2. Insufficient seating, shading, and interaction opportunities with the lake.
  3. Poor pathway design, causing congestion during peak hours.

Potential:

  • The site's proximity to the lake's ecological core offers an opportunity for multifunctional design.
  • The natural beauty and cultural significance (e.g., the Yellow Duck Festival) make it a potential attraction for users and visitors.

Environmental Analysis

Natural Elements:

  • Surrounded by lake views and wildlife, making it an ideal spot for photography and leisure walks.
  • The area serves as a habitat for ducks and other species, requiring an eco-sensitive design.

Environmental Challenges:

  1. Weather Sensitivity: Lack of shade on sunny days and no shelter during rain.
  2. Noise Pollution: High foot traffic reduces the space’s tranquility.
  3. Heat Retention: Cement flooring absorbs heat, making the area uncomfortable in warmer weather.

Cultural and Ecological Features

Yellow Duck Festival:

  • A key annual event featuring a giant inflatable yellow duck on the lake, drawing visitors and attention.

Lake Ecology:

  • The lake is a habitat for ducks and wildlife, emphasizing the need for environmentally conscious design.

User Behavior Patterns

  • Peak Hours:

    • 12:00–14:00: Students and staff use the area for breaks and socializing.
    • Evenings: Visitors increase, especially during festivals, for sightseeing and photography.

  • User Activities:

    • Sightseeing and Photography (67.7%): The lake's scenery is a major attraction.
    • Resting (64.5%): Commonly used for short breaks.
    • Studying and Working (48.4%): Users require quiet and equipped spaces.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths:

  • Proximity to the lake and natural scenery.
  • Cultural significance via the Yellow Duck Festival.
  • Existing user interest in the area for various activities.

Weaknesses:

  • Poor pathway designs and insufficient facilities (e.g., shading, seating).
  • Noise and heat issues impacting comfort.

Opportunities:

  • Enhance the user experience by redesigning the space with multifunctional features.
  • Integrate ecological awareness and cultural elements (e.g., Yellow Duck Festival exhibits).

Threats:

  • Risk of disrupting the lake’s ecosystem if not designed carefully.
  • Weather and environmental challenges reducing usability.

Survey Insights

Target Users:

  1. Students (51.6%):
    • Need study-friendly spaces, comfortable resting areas, and social zones.
  2. Visitors (25.8%):
    • Require attractive and functional features for relaxation and sightseeing.
  3. Faculty/Staff (22.6%):
    • Seek spaces for short breaks and informal outdoor meetings.

Gender Distribution:

  • Male (41.9%) and Female (45.2%) respondents were evenly represented.
  • Other (12.9%) respondents highlight the need for inclusive, gender-neutral facilities.

Age Groups:

  • 18–25 years (38.7%): Favor group-friendly areas, study zones, and tech-enhanced features.
  • 26–40 years (29%): Prefer versatile spaces balancing professional and casual needs.
  • 41 years and above (32.3%): Value comfort, accessibility, and tranquility.

Usage Frequency:

  • 48.4% visit the area several times a week.
  • 29% visit only occasionally.
  • 22.6% visit daily, relying on the space for regular activities.

Top Design Priorities:

  1. Aesthetics and Ecological Protection (32.3%): Equal emphasis on beauty and sustainability.
  2. Comfort (25.8%): Secondary focus on resting area design.
  3. Cultural Displays (9.7%): Least prioritized but still valuable for enhancing cultural identity.

Key Concerns:

  1. Poor Walkway Design (67.7%): A major issue for respondents.
  2. No Shading Facilities (54.8%).
  3. Noise and Environmental Problems (51.6%).
  4. Lack of Observation Deck or Lake Interaction (45.2%).
  5. Limited Comfortable Seating (25.8%).

Design Personas

  1. Active Student (Jacky):

    • Combines nature with technology for projects like coding and drone activities.
    • Prefers collaborative areas with tech-enabled features.

  2. Reflective Faculty/Staff (Susan):

    • Uses the space for relaxation, photography, and wellness initiatives.
    • Values peace and creativity.

  3. Occasional Visitor (Linda):

    • Focuses on wildlife photography and cultural storytelling.
    • Seeks eco-friendly improvements and cultural enrichment.

Design Recommendations

  1. Relaxation Hub:

    • Include shaded seating, resting zones, and social areas for students and staff.

  2. Observation Deck:

    • Enhance views of the lake and integrate eco-friendly materials to preserve the habitat.

  3. Cultural Displays:

    • Add elements like Yellow Duck Festival exhibits for cultural engagement.

  4. Eco-Sensitive Design:

    • Prioritize environmental sustainability with greenery, natural shading, and minimal disruption to wildlife.

  5. Night Lighting and Accessibility:

    • Install lighting for evening use and ensure pathways are safe, clear, and accessible for all users.

Conclusion and Value

The proposed Campus Resting Area and Observation Deck design aims to:

  1. Promote Relaxation and Social Interaction:

    • Create a welcoming space for students, staff, and visitors to unwind and connect.

  2. Highlight Campus Culture:

    • Celebrate events like the Yellow Duck Festival, turning the space into a cultural landmark.

  3. Foster Ecological Awareness:

    • Advance conservation efforts and educate users about the importance of preserving the lake’s ecosystem.

With its focus on multifunctionality, sustainability, and inclusivity, this project has the potential to become a cornerstone of campus life, blending functionality with cultural and ecological harmony.

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