Browsing by Author "Diker, Berk"

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Open Access
Distress, anxiety, boredom, and their relation to the interior spaces under COVID-19 lockdowns
(Emerald Publishing Limited, 2022-08-12) Diker, Berk; Demirkan, Halime
Purpose – This research is based on the idea that interior elements leave a wide variety of impressions on their occupants and that some interiors are likely to have more positive impressions than others. These impressions are especially prevalent when an individual cannot leave their homes for extended periods. The architectural elements of an interior where people are isolated can mitigate the adverse psychological effects. Design/methodology/approach – The study was conducted by surveying individuals under lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 140 participants completed three different scales (GAD-7, K10, FTB Scale) to measure mental health problems often experienced in isolated and confined environments. Their responses were then associated with the interior environments of the participants. Findings – Statistically significant relationships were identified between the reported interiors and the results of the psychological evaluations. The level of psychological distress was associated with Volume and Visual Variety factors. Susceptibility to generalized anxiety disorder was associated with Visual Variety and Airiness factors. Finally, free time boredom was associated with Volume, Visual Variety, and Airiness factors. The Furniture and Clutter factor did not significantly contribute to any of the psychological evaluations. Originality/value –The study was performed in response to the severe lockdown measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It successfully highlighted the need for a rethinking of interior design approaches regarding the design for isolated and confined environments.
Open Access
Evaluation of spaciousness in isolated and confined environments
(2023-12) Diker, Berk
This thesis explores the adverse psychological effects of Isolated, Confined, and Extreme (ICE) environments, aiming to explore the correlation between these effects and interior architectural elements. In addition, several methods are tested to evaluate interior architectural elements that may directly impact the perceived spaciousness of these environments. The initial phase of the thesis examined the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perception of interior spaces. Individuals who found their living spaces visually appealing, engaged in various activities, expressed satisfaction with their connections to outdoor spaces, encountered less boredom, and displayed fewer signs of anxiety and psychological distress. The following phase explored the effects of furniture, lighting, surface texture, and ceiling height on spaciousness perception and surveyed emotional and aesthetic responses to various design factors. The results indicated that interior architectural elements have a relatively minor impact on individuals' spatial perception within a habitat. Design training is a more significant influencer in all spatial evaluations than interior architectural elements. Although furniture, lighting, and texture have statistically significant effects on spaciousness and aesthetic judgments, design training remains a substantial moderator of these effects. This research contributes substantially to comprehending the complex dynamics between interior architectural design and human perception. The findings underscore the profound influence of design choices on practical functionality and emotional experiences within confined spaces. The study's implications extend to architects, designers, and policymakers, providing valuable insights for enhancing psychological well-being in ICE environments.