Designing New Residence Halls Based on the University Student's Preferences in the Fields of Architecture And Environmental Psychology

This study investigates the preferences of university students regarding different types of residence halls and their environmental levels from both architecture and environmental psychology perspectives. The study uses data collected from students living in eight different fraternities and sororities of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. A cross sectional survey research method is been used in this research. A total of 201 students attending different majors and academic levels filled out a questioner. The questions were related to their architectural preferences and their residential satisfaction on the subject of residence halls. Results indicate that most students prefer to live in the suite type of residence halls, since they provide an appropriate living environment and enhance more private spaces. Currently, life ability and sense of community in the corridor type of residence halls are in higher level than the other types. Also regarding to the difference between different ages and university levels of students, two different design models are suggested for their dormitories. This study recommends solutions for further improvement of architectural and environmental psychology of residence halls to the highest standard levels.