Occupant Satisfaction with LEED
This was a year-long, undergraduate research project completed under Ball State professor Dr. Mohsen Goodarzi. At the end of the research, there was a student symposium where the gathered research was showcased. The project poster broke down the methodology, results, and future goals.
Date | April 2023 |
Tools Used | Research Based, InDesign, Photoshop, Excel |
Professor | Mohsen Goodarzi |
Student Research
During the year-long research project, there were a total of ten studies that were analyzed to compare and contrast how LEED buildings affected their occupants. The main focus was on the LEED buildings being college residents' halls and how a green, sustainable hall would benefit college residents and their studies.
The hypothesis was that LEED buildings would outperform conventional buildings. Out of the ten categories (ex. lighting, thermal, storage, air quality, etc.), there was little to no difference between the two buildings. In some categories such as lighting and thermal control, many occupants would choose a conventional building over a LEED-certified building.
Results
The research project was an eye-opener not only in these findings but as well as in each of the studies analyzed. The current conclusion is that LEED buildings outperform in certain categories, the areas they lack are areas that impact occupant satisfaction. To create more of a difference between conventional and LEED buildings, LEED designs should focus more on occupant health and building health rather than risking one over the other. Small tweaks such as allowing occupant control better lighting will make a small but noticeable difference.