The Waiting Space Environment: Perception by Design

Abstract

Problem statement: The waiting space is the first point of perception and reality that users would encounter when they visit any health institution. The users’ experience in the waiting area is very crucial in determining their preference. The study explored the physical environment of the waiting area which affects the people’s anxiety and perception. The physical environment which links with the interior semantics and is part of the language of space speaks volume about the users’ needs and preferences. The study discussed the spatial contents within the environment which give comfort to the users. How health care is delivered particular in the first meeting point between the patients and the institution are interpreted. Approach: Combinations of physical observation on sites and in-depth interviews were conducted to find out the real situation of users experience. Results: The physical waiting area characteristics contributed to the comfort or discomfort of the immediate users. The waiting time appears to be the main concern of the users. Conclusion: The findings suggested that the adult patrons are quite happy with the seat design that is the seat affordances the adult users. The seating arrangement could be further enhance for better affordances.