Poster Abstract: Human Wellbeing Responses to Real and Simulated Workplaces: A comparison of in-person, online, and virtual environments

Recent studies have emphasized the role of building design on occupant wellbeing. However, studying the impact of built features on wellbeing is time-consuming and expensive. Our work explores the value of different methods to simulate workplace environments and their impact on wellbeing outcomes. Following a laboratory experiment that highlighted the potential of windows and natural materials to reduce stress, we conducted an immersive online replication to assess the continuity of results on a different platform. Online participants reported lower negative affect with natural materials compared to artificial materials, and higher positive affect in the presence of windows vs no window condition, making the stress results similar to those in the lab. Additionally, windows and diverse representations promoted belonging and creativity, respectively. A virtual reality (VR) replication is currently underway with identical variables to investigate the role of VR in facilitating research in this field. Our work contributes to a better understanding of the value of different workplaces (e.g., office, hybrid, or remote) based on their design characteristics.