Evaluating Multisensory Virtual Reality for Human–Built Environment Interaction in Architectural Research
Understanding how users perceive and experience architectural spaces is a central concern in architectural research. With the advancement of immersive technologies, virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a powerful tool for simulating designed environments. This study focuses on evaluating a multisensory VR system that integrates visual, olfactory, and auditory stimuli to investigate human–built environment interactions under multimodal conditions.
Multisensory VR and Sensory Architecture
The research is grounded in the emerging field of sensory architecture, which seeks to move beyond vision-dominated representations of space. By incorporating smell and sound alongside visual cues, the multisensory VR system aims to simulate a more holistic and embodied spatial experience. This approach enables architects and researchers to better understand how multiple sensory inputs collectively shape perception and meaning in built environments.
System Design and Prototype Development
The study evaluates a purpose-built multisensory VR prototype designed to support architectural research. Key features of the system include synchronized visual environments, controlled olfactory delivery, and spatialized audio. Together, these components create an immersive platform capable of representing architectural spaces with greater experiential fidelity than conventional VR setups.
Research Methodology and User Studies
A mixed-method research approach was adopted to assess the effectiveness of the multisensory VR system. In-depth user studies were conducted, combining quantitative measures with qualitative feedback to capture both measurable outcomes and subjective experiences. This methodological framework allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of presence, engagement, and user perception within immersive environments.
Results: Presence, Engagement, and Spatial Perception
The findings indicate that multisensory integration significantly enhances participants’ sense of presence and engagement. In particular, the inclusion of olfactory stimuli enriched spatial perception and contributed to a more convincing and memorable experience of architectural space. These results demonstrate how sensory feedback can inform more responsive and human-centered design strategies.
Implications, Limitations, and Future Research
The study contributes valuable insights into the use of multisensory VR as a research tool in architecture. While limitations related to system complexity and scalability are acknowledged, the proposed approach opens new opportunities for immersive research methodologies across architecture and related fields. Future studies are encouraged to expand sensory modalities, refine evaluation metrics, and explore long-term experiential effects.
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