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Article

Kano Model for Apartment-Unit Specialized Planning Guidelines to Prevent Infectious Diseases

1
Department of Housing and Interior Design, Chungbuk National University, Cheong-Ju 28644, Republic of Korea
2
Dodam Design & Research, Seoul 04322, Republic of Korea
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Buildings 2024, 14(3), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030606
Submission received: 22 January 2024 / Revised: 13 February 2024 / Accepted: 23 February 2024 / Published: 25 February 2024
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Adaptive, Inclusive, and Responsive Buildings)

Abstract

:
Owing to the continued occurrence of infectious diseases, proactive prevention and management plans are required. This study aimed to develop design guidelines to effectively respond to infectious diseases based on the needs of apartment residents, which focused on a South Korean setting. The research method included a literature review to identify apartment planning concepts for preventing and managing infectious diseases, a survey of 300 participants using the Kano model, and an analysis of the quality attributes (QAs) of the survey results to prioritize design guidelines. After reviewing 20 studies, 65 items related to apartment-unit planning for infectious disease prevention, including 108 keywords, were identified. Using thematic analysis, the keywords converged into three planning concepts: hygiene, convenience, and comfort. Based on the literature review, 27 survey questions were derived, and a Kano model QA analysis was performed. As a result, 17 attractive QAs, two one-dimensional QAs, seven indifferent QAs, and one reverse QA were identified. Among these, 13 items that had a significant impact on residents’ satisfaction were classified as essential requirements, and the remaining 14 items were classified as recommended design guidelines. The results of this study provide insights into an evidence-based framework for complex building design guidelines to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

1. Introduction

Since the Black Death that occurred in the 14th century, humanity has experienced the emergence and response to numerous infectious disease disasters [1]. The COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused unprecedented deaths and infections worldwide, has become endemic; however, infectious diseases are expected to re-emerge periodically and diversify [2]. Therefore, proactive prevention and management are required to quickly respond to disasters stemming from infectious diseases.
Apartment complexes are vulnerable to infection because many people live in groups, and complex resident activities that require various functions occur within the residential space [3]. Therefore, systematic design guidelines are required for apartment units to prevent infectious diseases and respond in a timely manner.
Several studies have been conducted in various countries and organizations investigating resident satisfaction and preferences during the pandemic [4,5,6].
Specific systematic guidelines have been introduced to prevent and manage COVID-19 [7,8,9]. However, in South Korea, studies have yet to be conducted. These include suggesting planning directions for complex housing in response to infectious diseases [10], presenting architectural approach strategies [11,12,13,14,15] or research guidelines for public buildings [16], analyzing changes in residential function in the post-corona era, and space preferences of the eco-boomer generation [17].
Therefore, it is necessary to understand residents’ needs based on user experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic for the derivation of apartment-unit design guidelines, which will enable systematic infectious disease prevention and management based on valid and clear evidence derived from user needs.
For residential spaces, where people live for an extended period, it is necessary to apply valid design techniques based on residents’ opinions (users) before proposing a technology-centered perspective and a strategic concept for product differentiation.
The Kano model [18] was designed for product and service development as well as customer satisfaction. It primarily presents segmented and diversified products, service management, and utilization strategies. Based on Herzberg’s two-factor theory [19], this model considers customer satisfaction (satisfied/dissatisfied) and the degree of functional performance achievement (fully/unachieved). The model systematically classifies attributes into direct, primary influencing, indirect, and secondary factors. The customer satisfaction coefficient (CSC) used in the Kano model determines priorities by identifying user satisfaction, dissatisfaction, and relative influence. This helps to derive adequate evidence and guidelines for prioritizing user needs. In addition, this model has been widely used in various academic study fields, including architecture, due to its reliability and flexibility when interpreting results [20,21].
Therefore, this study aimed to (1) identify in-depth resident needs and their degree of influence based on resident experiences during the pandemic by using the Kano model and (2) develop design guidelines for preventing and managing infectious diseases in apartment units.
This study targeted apartments among the complex housing types under South Korea’s housing law. It was limited to an exclusive area of 85 m2 or less per unit, which is based on the size of the general housing in which most residents live. The design guidelines for apartment units include space planning, facilities, and advanced system planning. Referring to the results of the literature, spatial planning elements and hygienic facility/advanced system planning elements such as sterilization, disinfection, and ventilation are necessary in apartment-unit planning for infectious disease prevention and management [22].
This study was divided into three stages. In the first stage, an apartment-unit planning concept for infectious disease prevention and management was derived through a literature review, and survey questions were developed based on this concept. In the second stage, residents’ needs were identified through an online survey, and priorities were analyzed using the Kano model. In the third stage, specialized design guidelines for infectious disease prevention in apartment units were developed based on the residents’ opinions.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Kano Model

The Kano model identifies two or more perceptions or evaluations of respondents by presenting a pair of positive and negative questions about the same item and six types of QAs (Table 1 and Figure 1).
Kano et al. (1984) [18] proposed a survey method to measure the QAs of specific products/services. All questions in the questionnaire comprised opposing functional (positive) and dysfunctional (negative) questions to collect dual answers from users. Table 2 presents an example of binary survey items and answers.
According to the respondents’ answers, the results were tallied by matching them to the QA binary evaluation table (Table 3), and the final QAs were determined based on the mode for each question.
The group comparison method, CSC, and average satisfaction coefficient (ASC) were used to analyze the Kano model. The group comparison method compared the values of the leading QAs (A + O + M) and other QAs (I + Q + R) to select the QA with the mode value (Table 4).
The CSC determines the extent to which a user’s satisfaction level can increase when products and services are satisfied as well as how much it can fall when they are not satisfied. By calculating the frequency and average of each of the six QAs classified through the Kano model, the degree of influence of satisfaction and dissatisfaction was calculated, and a better index (satisfaction index, SI) and worse index (dissatisfaction index, DI) were presented [22,23].
The ASC was calculated by adding the absolute values of Timko’s better and worse indices [23] (Figure 2 and Figure 3) to identify the overall degree of influence. This coefficient is between 0 and 1, and a large ASC indicates that user satisfaction and dissatisfaction have significantly increased and decreased, respectively.

2.2. Methods

2.2.1. Stage 1: Literature Review

The researchers reviewed guidelines and previous studies on apartment residential space planning to prevent and manage infectious diseases. Google Scholar was selected as the electronic literature search database, using the search keywords “COVID-19”, “housing design”, and “apartment housing”. The screening literature specifically mentions guidelines for apartment living space planning in response to infectious disease. A total of 35 documents were selected, including 20 papers, 14 reports, guidelines, and manuals. Twenty documents that mentioned specific spatial planning guidelines were selected for this review.
Keywords and related spaces were derived through content analysis of previous research. Keywords with similar meanings were categorized, and three representative planning concepts—hygiene, convenience, and comfort—were suggested.

2.2.2. Stage 2: Kano Survey

The survey targeted households living in apartments in an exclusive area of 85 m2 or less in the metropolitan area. A preliminary survey was conducted in ten households on 4 September 2023. All subjects gave their informed consent for inclusion before they participated in the study. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Chungbuk National University (CBNU-202309-HR-0223). As a result, the concentration of participants may decrease if the number of survey questions is significant: (1) the survey questions were revised to exclude service spaces (study, alpha room, and dressing room) and classify indoor environmental elements, facilities, and high-tech system planning elements as common items; and (2) terms that were difficult for participants to understand were supplemented by attaching pictures and explanations for reference such that participants could complete the survey after sufficient understanding.
The primary survey was conducted online from 10 October to 18 October 2023. It consisted of 62 questions, including 4 on sociodemographic characteristics, 4 on architectural characteristics of residential apartments, and 54 on apartment-unit planning elements (27 positive questions, 27 negative questions). Descriptive statistics and frequency analyses were conducted for sociodemographic and architectural characteristics, and a Kano model analysis was conducted for apartment-unit planning elements using SPSS 25.0 statistical program and Excel.

2.2.3. Stage 3: Design Guideline Development

The Kano model analysis identified the final QAs for each of the 27 questions based on the better, worse, and ASC indices. Considering the influence of QAs on resident satisfaction, the final apartment-unit specialized planning guidelines were divided into required and recommended items.

3. Results

3.1. Stage 1: Identifying Apartment-Unit Planning Concepts and Constructing Survey Questions

3.1.1. Apartment-Unit Planning Concepts Analysis

After reviewing 20 studies, 65 items related to apartment-unit planning for infectious disease prevention and management were identified. Core keywords and related spaces were identified for each item and similar items were initially categorized. In this phase, all the keywords for each item were included if multiple concepts were identified. The keywords included multifunctionality (n = 21), hygiene (n = 20), openness (n = 14), comfort (n = 9), variability (n = 8), territoriality (n = 8), independence (n = 8), nature-friendliness (n = 8), flexibility (n = 7), sociability (n = 4), and convenience (n = 1). Related spaces included overall space (n = 28), balcony (n = 16), entrance (n = 9), kitchen/dining (n = 5), bedroom (n = 3), living room (n = 2), and others (n = 2) (Table 5).
The initially derived concepts were further categorized and presented in terms of hygiene, convenience, and comfort (Table 6). Hygiene and territoriality were integrated into hygiene, which corresponds to the concept of a hygienic and safe space, such as securing physical distance, materials, and technology to prevent contact infection; blocking the inflow of viruses; removing contaminants; and securing sterilization/disinfection spaces. Multifunctionality, variability, independence, flexibility, sociability, and convenience are related to conveniently and efficiently changing lifestyles and activity patterns within residential spaces for various activities, and they are also related to functional support by changing the use of space, integrating and separating space, and flexible adaptation according to the user’s age and requirements. Therefore, these concepts have been integrated for convenience.
Openness, comfort, and nature-friendliness correspond to the concepts of planning to help residents who spend a long time in their residential spaces live comfortably, including improving the indoor environment quality through sufficient lighting and ventilation, connection with nature, biophilic design, and the expansion and connection of indoor spaces with external spaces. Thus, these concepts were finalized as comfort.

3.1.2. Constructing Survey Questions

According to the three planning concepts derived in the previous step, survey questions were constructed based on the results of the literature review, as shown in Table 7.
Nine hygiene items were considered: five for the entrance, one for the kitchen/dining area, one for the bedroom, and two for the overall space. Most of these items should be addressed at the entrance, such as handling contaminated items, storing sanitary products, sterilizing and washing coats and hands, and creating sterilizing and disinfecting spaces to prevent entry of external viruses. Therefore, the entrance is an important area of focus for hygiene. Overall, it is recommended to use natural antibacterial and nonporous materials to eliminate bacteria and viruses and reduce the risk of contact infections between residents.
Ten items were identified for convenience during unit planning: one for the entrance, two for the kitchen/dining room, one for the living room, one for the bedroom, three for the balcony, and two for the entire space. Convenience has been identified as an essential concept for all unit spaces, including kitchens/dining rooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. Additionally, the items were chosen to allow for the flexible integration and separation of spaces through partitions or sliding doors, enabling various activities, such as working from home and remote learning.
The review included eight items related to comfort level. One item corresponded to the entrance, one to the kitchen/dining room, one to the living room, two to the balcony, and three to the overall space. Most comfort-related items were related to balconies, which should be considered as a significant space for comfort. It was also found that the space needs to be planned as an open area that provides external views. In addition, the space generally requires a window plan that provides adequate lighting and external views.

3.2. Stage 2: Kano Survey Results

3.2.1. Sociodemographic Characteristics

Regarding the sociodemographic characteristics of the 300 survey participants (Figure 4), most were in their 40s (40.3%), which was followed by those in their 50s (30.3%, n = 91), and 30s (18.0%, n = 54). Regarding residential area, Gyeonggi-do had the highest rate at 56.7% (n = 170), which was followed by Seoul at 33.3% (n = 100), and Incheon at 10.0% (n = 30). In terms of occupancy type, self-ownership was the highest at 82.0% (n = 246), which was followed by long-term rental at 15.0% (n = 45), and monthly rental at 2.3% (n = 7). The majority lived in households with four people 42.3%, which was followed by three people (34.7%), and two people (15.3%).
In terms of the year of construction, 46.3% (n = 139) of the buildings were constructed after 2010, with the second and third most common decades of construction being the 2000s and 1990s, accounting for 28.3% (n = 85) and 19.0% (n = 57), respectively. Regarding the number of households, 37.7% (n = 113) of the buildings had between 500 and 1000 households, 26.7% (n = 80) had between 1000 and 2000 households, and 18.0% (n = 54) had more than 2000 households. Most residents (40.7%, n = 122) had lived in their homes for 1–5 years, while 23.3% (n = 70) had lived there for 5–10 years.

3.2.2. The Results of the QAs

Our survey results indicated various distinctions regarding the QAs (Table 8). (1) First, in terms of hygiene, in the kitchen/dining room, having a “hygienic household waste disposal space and system” was found to be a one-dimensional QA. (2) In contrast, respondents were indifferent to the following QAs in the entrance: “unit-separated floor plan to secure social distancing and self-isolation space”, “separation of circulation between entrance and living room to create sterilization and disinfection space”, and “individual bathroom for removal of contaminants and hygiene of self-quarantined people”.
There were four major categories of results regarding convenience. (1) First, in the bedroom, “space that can be used as a home office through partitions and sliding panels” was found to be a one-dimensional QA. (2) Regarding the overall space, “sliding doors and furniture that can be folded and stored when needed” was found to be an indifferent QA. (3) On the balcony, “social space to communicate with neighbors” was found to be a reverse QA, and (4) the remaining items were attractive QAs.
There were four major distinctions in the findings regarding comfort. (1) In the overall space, “mechanical ventilation system for comfortable indoor air quality” was found to be a one-dimensional QA. (2) Residents were indifferent to having a “personal garden capable of self-sufficiency in food” on the balcony and (3) “windows with smooth airflow and good ventilation efficiency” in the overall space. (4) The remaining items appeared to be attractive QAs.
Looking at the better and worse indices of attractive QAs, in terms of hygiene, the (1) (kitchen/dining room) “hygienic storage space for handling household waste” and (2) (entrance) “storage space for handling contaminated external items and sanitary products” items were both highly ranked. These items were identified as crucial for increasing resident satisfaction and decreasing dissatisfaction.
In terms of convenience, (1) (balcony) “a space that can respond to the external environment through a folding door and be integrated and separated from the living room” was the highest. This item was identified as significant because it had the greatest impact on reducing resident dissatisfaction. The following three items also had relatively high rankings: (2) (entrance) “circulation for convenient transportation of deliveries and parcels”, (3) (balcony) “space that can be used for various purposes such as home cafe and home camping”, and (4) (overall space) “sliding doors and furniture that can be folded and stored when needed”.
In terms of comfort, (1) in the kitchen/dining room, having a “balcony with easy ventilation and lighting” and (2) having a “mechanical ventilation system for comfortable indoor air quality” in the overall space were both ranked highly. (3) In the entrance area, having a “balcony with easy ventilation and lighting” was identified as an essential element for improving resident satisfaction and reducing dissatisfaction. In particular, the “balcony with easy ventilation and light” item in the kitchen/dining room shows the greatest increase in resident satisfaction when planning, and the (overall space) “mechanical ventilation system for comfortable indoor air quality” item showed the most significant decrease in resident dissatisfaction during planning.

3.3. Stage 3: Development of Specialized Design Guidelines

The researchers conducted a survey and used the Kano model to develop specialized design guidelines that reflect the opinions of apartment residents in preventing infectious diseases in apartment units. Consequently, 13 items with relatively high rankings were presented as essential items and 14 as recommended items, resulting in a final set of 27 guidelines.
The three essential items for the overall space were mechanical ventilation for indoor air quality, equipment, advanced systems to prevent contact infection, and flexible and adjustable furniture plans. The application of noncontact systems to faucets and home appliances ranked relatively high but was classified as a recommended item. This is because although the noncontact system has been commercialized in main building plans, such as the main building entrance doors and elevators commonly used by residents, its application within apartment units is limited to electronic products rather than space planning.
Five items were recommended for the overall space: planning to apply a noncontact system, maximizing lighting and ventilation, introducing natural elements, and planning flexible furniture that could be stored inside the wall.
Five essential items were presented at the entrance: hygienic storage and laundry spaces, facilities and advanced systems for hand washing, maximization of ventilation and lighting, and an efficient circulation plan linking the entrance to adjacent spaces. There were two recommended items: a separate sterilization and disinfection space, and a plan with a separate entrance and bathroom to facilitate social distancing.
The two essential items in the kitchen/dining room are household waste disposal spaces and plans to maximize ventilation and lighting. The two recommended items included plans supporting various activities through flexible walls and securing the independence of the space by separating it from the living room for multipurpose use.
There are three essential items for a balcony: a plan to enjoy the view and engage in various activities through a flexible wall or an open space. Two recommended items were derived: a system allowing food self-sufficiency while enjoying natural elements and a space plan that allows communication with neighbors.
The 27 guidelines prioritized 12 essential items that significantly affected residents when planning apartment units. The remaining 15 recommended items were presented for selective application, depending on resident characteristics or preferences (Table 9).

4. Discussion

4.1. Planning Aspects of Apartment Units

Based on the results of this study, the planning aspects required for applying specialized design guidelines to prevent infectious diseases in apartment units can be presented as follows.
Considering the 27 guidelines derived from this study, hygiene was found to be the most important, and the importance of planning entrance areas was identified. As the hygiene function of entrances to block viruses from the outside has become more critical during the pandemic, various specialized plans have been introduced. In particular, items related to storage space planning for contaminated items brought in from the outside and sanitary products, space planning for sterilizing and washing contaminated coats, and dry sink planning for hand washing immediately after returning home are high priorities.
The required items included securing space for sanitary waste disposal, sterilization, and sanitary items storage. A noncontact system, anti-bacterial material use, separation between entrance and living room, and separate bathroom plan were presented as recommended items. This shows the same results as previous studies that emphasized disinfection and sterilization and prevention of contact infection [10,14,17,26,27,28,29,30,31,34]. However, South Korean apartment residents considered it important to secure storage space for waste disposal and sanitary items rather than antibacterial material use and easy to clean management for disinfection and sterilization in relation to hygiene. In addition, it showed a different perspective that it was necessary to plan the entrance in a separate form from the living room as a key place for removal of contaminants. Therefore, when planning an entrance with enhanced hygiene, the above items should be applied first to increase residents’ satisfaction. Additionally, it is necessary to consider increasing the entrance area. In addition to the living flow from the entrance to the living room, a space plan is needed to consider sanitary circulation and separate sterilization and disinfection spaces at the entrance before entering the living room. In addition, it is necessary to plan spaces for various entry points connecting the entrance to the kitchen’s multipurpose rooms, shared bathrooms, or alpha rooms. Additionally, when noncontact equipment and advanced systems, such as clothes care machines, dry sinks, and motion and voice recognition, are applied together at the entrance, they can effectively respond to various hazardous factors, such as infectious diseases, fine dust, and pests. Second, regarding convenience, four required items were presented, such as circulation/interaction between the spaces, flexible furniture plan, and balcony for multipurpose use. Storage, privacy between the bedrooms, dining room, and home office, flexible structure/space plan for diverse activities, and having a balcony as a social space were introduced as recommended items. This shows that South Korea residents prefer flexible space use but value privacy in each space. This view is the same as the majority of previous studies that emphasized various space use; it is worth noting that privacy, which requires that the original function of the space should not be disturbed by the integration of other activities, was emphasized.
Among these, especially the importance of balcony planning is identified in terms of convenience. It has been shown that space planning that allows balconies to be used for multiple purposes can increase resident satisfaction the most. Therefore, the priority application of plans related to this is necessary.
One noteworthy point is that in terms of balcony planning as a social space for communicating with neighbors, resident satisfaction decreased, and dissatisfaction increased. This point shows results that are contradictory to many previous Western studies [6,36,37,38] that mentioned the need for balcony planning that allows social distancing while also allowing interaction with neighbors. In South Korea, resident satisfaction has increased with balconies functioning as private spaces. Therefore, cultural preferences must be considered when planning balconies. During the pandemic, several attempts were made in South Korea, such as holding concerts where people could communicate with neighbors and watch performances through apartment balconies [37,38]. However, considering the results of this study, in-depth planning that reflects cultural differences by country is necessary when planning balconies as social spaces.
Third, in terms of comfort, items related to mechanical ventilation were found to reduce resident dissatisfaction the most. Planning facilities and advanced systems to maintain consistent indoor air quality are high priorities; therefore, a priority application of items for air quality management is necessary. While the need for a mechanical ventilation system was presented as a required item, the need for natural ventilation, lighting, and securing a view through a window was classified as a recommended item. This shows that South Korean residents consider efficiency through artificial systems to be more important than natural conditions in managing indoor qualities such as light and air quality. In addition, the balcony’s function was given greater emphasis for the purpose of ventilation rather than socializing, taking care of plants, or securing a view. These insights show a slightly different perspective from previous studies which focused on the purposes of balconies such as garden planning [5,26], biophilic design [5,28], natural light/ventilation through windows [5,28,29,34], enabling a pleasant view [5,26], and providing space for a food production system [28].
The guidelines presented from the above three perspectives have the same insights as previous studies in terms of disinfection and sterilization for removing contaminants, flexible space use for multiple purposes, and ventilation and connection between indoor and outdoor through balcony. On the other hand, the needs of South Korean residents identified through the Kano model emphasized the following unique perspectives: space for storage, connection between the entrance and other spaces, but maintaining a separate structure, privacy of each space, and preference for artificial ventilation system.
Fourth, because applying all 27 guidelines from this study to apartment-unit plans is hard to achieve in the actual residential settings, flexible application, depending on the type of resident, is necessary.
Fifth, the guidelines developed in this study require different applications, depending on the case of new construction and remodeling. In the case of newly built apartments, to prevent and respond to infectious diseases, separate floor plans with separate entrances, bathrooms, and kitchens, and individual bathroom plans for each bedroom for those in self-quarantine can be actively considered. These items are new specialized plan elements presented during the pandemic, and the study results show that these items do not directly affect resident satisfaction. To actively respond to infectious diseases that may occur in the future, priority must be given to separating unit floor plans and individual bathrooms.
However, in the case of apartment remodeling, there are significant limitations in the application of the items derived from this study, which are owing to the expansion method, load-bearing walls, and location of existing facilities. Therefore, balcony extensions using modular construction can be considered as a possible alternative. Currently, most apartment balconies in South Korea have been expanded and occupied as indoor spaces, according to the legalization of balcony expansion. A private balcony connected to a living room or dining room can be planned to provide access to nature and a view of the outside, or various types of external projections or open plans can be applied. In addition, the plan for the entrance area must be intensively considered to ensure hygiene, and the application of equipment and advanced systems, such as mechanical ventilation and noncontact systems, to prevent contact infection must be considered.

4.2. Study Limitations

To develop specialized design guidelines that reflect residents’ opinions on preventing infectious diseases in apartment units, this study conducted a survey of apartment residents. The Kano model was used to determine the influence of each item on resident satisfaction. Based on these results, efficient and practical guidelines that can be applied to apartment units were developed.
Two questions (positive and negative) were presented in pairs to measure the QA of the Kano model. Hence, the number of survey questions had to be limited considering the participants’ concentration. Therefore, there is a limitation in that the facility and advanced system planning elements identified in previous studies were not sufficiently reflected in the survey questions.
In addition, the scope of this study was limited to apartment-unit plans designed to prevent and respond to infectious diseases. To present comprehensive research results in response to infectious diseases in future, the research scope must be expanded to include apartment unit, main building, and complex and community facility plans.

5. Conclusions

Through a literature review, this study derived concepts that should be considered when planning apartment units to prevent and respond to infectious diseases. The priority and relative influence of apartment-resident requirements were identified using the Kano model. The significance of this study is that by combining these two results, we developed a specialized design guideline for infectious disease prevention in apartment units, filling the gap in the literature where information specific to South Korea does not exist.
In addition, this study is valuable because it systematically and objectively elicited residents’ opinions on guideline items by using the Kano model. We proposed required guidelines and recommended items for the planning of apartment units specializing in response to infectious diseases in South Korea. Setting standards for apartment-unit planning should be approached very carefully and through evidence-based validation. Additionally, it is important to understand the user needs in the local community and apply guidelines flexibly based on the practical needs. From this aspect, the use of the Kano model, which flexibly interprets user needs and presents reliable data, will present a critical framework for systematically establishing and changing future application standards for apartment-unit planning worldwide, including in South Korea.
Finally, we hope that the results of this study, which is limited to apartment unit planning, will continue to be applied to other cultural settings, and that the scope of the research will be expanded to complexes or community facilities so that an advanced form of sustainable guideline can be created based on accumulated data.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, M.-K.K.; methodology, S.-J.H.; validation, M.-K.K. and E.-J.K.; formal analysis, S.-J.H.; investigation, S.-J.H.; writing—original draft preparation, S.-J.H. and E.-J.K.; writing—review and editing, M.-K.K.; supervision, M.-K.K.; and project administration, M.-K.K. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by the National Research Foundation of Korea (grant number: NRF-2021R1F1A1062673).

Data Availability Statement

The datasets used and analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Appendix A

Table A1. Apartment-unit planning concepts identified from the literature review (full data version).
Table A1. Apartment-unit planning concepts identified from the literature review (full data version).
No.Authors (Year)SpaceKeywordsConcepts
1Kim, M.K.; Park, E.C.; Kim, E.J. (2022) [10]Overall spaceSupports a variety of activities, efficient use of space, versatility, and variabilityMultifunctionality, variability
Overall spaceSupport for various activities, management of indoor environmental quality, comfortComfort
Overall spaceVirus removal, contact infection prevention, antibacterial, touch-freeHygiene
Overall spaceAlleviating psychological depression, visual transition, natural and calm atmosphere, securing diversityComfort
EntranceBlocking sources of infection, disinfection space, storage of goods, adjacent laundry room planHygiene
BalconyExpand to outdoor space, connect indoors and outdoors, communicate with neighborsOpenness, Sociability
BalconyHarmony between artificial living environment and natural environmentNature-friendliness
2Shin, D.S.; Lee, M.S.; Yu, Y.H. (2022) [11]Overall spaceWork and study support, flexible spaceMultifunctionality, variability
Kitchen/Dining roomSupports various activities such as reading, work, and learningMultifunctionality
BedroomSecuring self-isolation space and independent area, Separated space and circulation, individual bathroomHygiene, territoriality
BalconyConnected with outdoor air and nature, supports various uses and functionsMultifunctionality, nature-friendliness
OtherSelf-isolation space, unit-separated floor planHygiene, territoriality
OtherFunctional transition of service spaceMultifunctionality
3Lee, D.Y.; Kwon, O.J.; Kim, J.Y. (2022) [17]Overall spaceSupports a variety of activities, versatility, variable spaceMultifunctionality, variability
EntranceVirus blocking, clean zone, hygiene and sterilization spaceHygiene
Kitchen/Dining roomDelivery and courier product management, convenient circulationConvenience
BalconyOutdoor space with comfortable ventilation and access to outdoor airComfort, openness
4Lim, S.G.; Kim, Y.S.; Song, S.J. (2021) [13]Overall spaceRelieve frustration, connected to the outdoors, open structureOpenness
Overall spaceWork/study support, independent space, separation and integration of space, Versatile useMultifunctionality, independence, variability
5Jeon, K.S.; Lee, M.S.; Choi, K.B. (2022) [14]Overall spacePrevention of contact infection, complete separation of private and public spacesHygiene, territoriality
Kitchen/Dining roomUtilization of community space, separation from living room, independent spaceMultifunctionality, independence, sociability
BalconyIndoor/outdoor connection, multipurpose use including cafe/camping/gardenMultifunctionality, openness
BalconySafe/hygienic food supply, indoor/outdoor connection, private garden providedNature-friendliness
6Choi, J.K.; Lee, J.H.; Lee, H.R. (2022) [15]BalconyConnection to the natural environment, expansion of space to the outside, open to the outside airNature-friendliness, openness
BalconySecuring private outdoor space, connecting to an outdoor balcony, utilizing a large area of outdoor spaceOpenness
7Abed, A. (2021) [24]BalconyIsolation, comfort, stress relief, social communication, outdoor spaceComfort, Sociability, openness
BalconyConnection with nature, outdoor space, various uses, large area, flexible layoutNature-friendliness, multifunctionality, independence, flexibility
8Kleeman, A.; Foster, S. (2023) [5]Overall spaceSocial distancing, privacy, large area, flexible, multifunctionalTerritoriality, independence, flexibility, multifunctionality
BalconyGarden planning, natural view, connected with nature and the outdoors, biophilic designNature-friendliness
BalconyAdequate lighting, pleasant view, easy accessComfort
9Spennemann, D. H. (2022) [25]BedroomSelf-quarantine, access to outside space, laundryTerritoriality, openness
10Grigoriadou, E. T. (2021) [26]Overall spaceRearrangement of space, flexible, lightweight panels, temporary building elementsFlexibility
Overall spaceComfortable light, ventilation, temperature, open spaceOpenness, comfort
Overall spaceEasy integration/separation of space, work/study supportMultifunctionality, flexibility
Overall spaceHygienic, easy to clean, antibacterialHygiene
Overall spaceHygiene management, bright/clean colorHygiene
EntranceBlocking virus inflow, sanitary spaceHygiene
EntrancePrevention of virus infection, disinfection of delivery itemsHygiene
BedroomIsolation space, individual bathroom, outdoor accessible spaceHygiene, territoriality, openness
BalconyHealth improvement, connection with nature, garden planning, landscaping spaceNature-friendliness
11Gür, M. (2022) [27]Overall spaceFlexible space, working from home, remote learning, resident needsMultifunctionality, flexibility
EntranceBlocking the inflow of viruses, washing hands, contaminated coats managementHygiene
12Lekić Glavan, O.; Nikolić, N.; Folić, B.; Vitošević, B.; Mitrović, A.; Kosanović, S. (2022) [28]Overall spaceVisual openness, natural light, indoor/outdoor connectionOpenness
Overall spaceVarious activities support, easy to change use, multipurpose, modularMultifunctionality, flexibility, variability
Overall spaceVirus growth inhibition, disinfection, easy maintenance, nonporous materialHygiene
BalconyMaximizing green space, food production systemNature-friendliness
13Peters, T.; Halleran, A. (2020) [29]Living roomSupports a variety of activities, transformable space, versatile, separable spaceMultifunctionality, flexibility, independence
Overall spaceSpace for quarantined people, health promotion, open spaceOpenness
Overall spacePrevention of virus infection, social distancing, sufficient areaHygiene, territoriality
Overall spaceNatural ventilation, acceptance of natural light, window planningOpenness, comfort
Overall spaceComfort, health promotion, thermal comfort, natural ventilation, window planningComfort
Living roomSupports a variety of activities, adjustable walls and screens, and ensures privacyMultifunctionality, variability, independence
Kitchen/Dining roomHome office support, multifunctional use, semi-closed pocket doorMultifunctionality, independence
14ElZein, Z.; ElSemary, Y. (2022) [30]EntrancePrevention of virus infection, direct access from entrance to bathroomHygiene
BalconySocial distancing, interacting with neighborsTerritoriality, sociability
BalconySupports various activities, furniture arrangement that can be used by two or more people, sufficient areaMultifunctionality
15Briseno, A.; Verabian, G.; Walbuck, B.; Campbell, K. (2020) [31]Overall spaceFlexible, height-adjustable furniture that meets a variety of ages and needsMultifunctionality, variability
EntranceHygienic and easy to clean materialHygiene
EntrancePollutant removal/processing spaceHygiene
16Morgan, B. (2020) [32]Overall spaceRemoves bacteria and viruses, natural antibacterial materialHygiene
17McCausland, C. (2021) [33]Overall spaceSupports a variety of activities, efficient use of space, flexible furniture that can be folded and unfoldedMultifunctionality, variability
18Kimura, D. (2020) [34]Overall spacePrevention of contact infection, hands-free, voice control, motion sensor, noncontact systemHygiene
Overall spaceNatural ventilation, large openings, indoor/outdoor connectionOpenness, comfort
19Massenburg, D. R. (2021) [35]EntranceCare/laundry of contaminated clothesHygiene
20Strobel, E. (2020) [36]Kitchen/Dining roomUsed as a study/play space, visual connection and spatial separation between the kitchen and dining roomMultifunctionality, independence

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Figure 1. Kano model.
Figure 1. Kano model.
Buildings 14 00606 g001
Figure 2. Better index.
Figure 2. Better index.
Buildings 14 00606 g002
Figure 3. Worse index.
Figure 3. Worse index.
Buildings 14 00606 g003
Figure 4. Sociodemographic characteristics of the participants.
Figure 4. Sociodemographic characteristics of the participants.
Buildings 14 00606 g004
Table 1. Six types of quality attributes (QAs) of the Kano model.
Table 1. Six types of quality attributes (QAs) of the Kano model.
QAsDescription
Attractive It provides satisfaction when products and services are present, but dissatisfaction does not occur even when they are absent.
One-dimensionalSatisfaction occurs when products and services are present, and dissatisfaction occurs when they are absent.
Must-beEven if products and services are present, they do not provide satisfaction, but if they are absent, dissatisfaction occurs.
IndifferentWhether products and services are present or absent does not affect satisfaction or dissatisfaction.
ReverseDissatisfaction occurs when products and services are present, and satisfaction occurs when they are absent.
QuestionableIt is an ambiguous and ambivalent response which is caused by a lack of understanding and indifference to the survey.
Table 2. Kano model binary survey format example.
Table 2. Kano model binary survey format example.
Survey ItemAnswers
1-a
(Functional question)
What do you think about planning A?① I like it that way
② It must be that way
③ I am neutral
④ I can live it that way
⑤ I dislike it that way
1-b
(Dysfunctional question)
What do you think about not planning A?① I like it that way
② It must be that way
③ I am neutral
④ I can live it that way
⑤ I dislike it that way
Table 3. Kano model QA binary evaluation table.
Table 3. Kano model QA binary evaluation table.
ClassificationDysfunctional Question
① I Like It That Way② It Must Be That Way③ I Am Neutral④ I Can Live It That Way⑤ I Dislike It That Way
Functional question① I like it that wayQAAAO
② It must be that wayRIIIM
③ I am neutralRIIIM
④ I can live it that wayRIIIM
⑤ I dislike it that wayRRRRQ
A: Attractive Attribute, M: Must-Be Attribute, O: One-Dimensional Attribute, I: Indifferent Attribute. Q: Questionable Attribute, R: Reverse Attribute.
Table 4. Group comparison method for determining the QAs.
Table 4. Group comparison method for determining the QAs.
Method
Evaluation 1If Group 1 (A + M + O) value > Group 2 (I + Q + R) value, the mode among A, M, and O is classified as a final QA.
Evaluation 2If Group 1 (A + M + O) value < Group 2 (I + Q + R) value, the mode among I, Q, and R is classified as a final QA.
A: Attractive Attribute, M: Must-Be Attribute, O: One-Dimensional Attribute, I: Indifferent Attribute. Q: Questionable Attribute, R: Reverse Attribute.
Table 5. Summary of the apartment-unit planning concepts identified from the literature review. (The full data can be found in the Appendix A).
Table 5. Summary of the apartment-unit planning concepts identified from the literature review. (The full data can be found in the Appendix A).
No.Authors (Year)SpaceConcepts
1Kim, M.K.; Park, E.C.; Kim, E.J. (2022) [10]Overall spaceMultifunctionality, Variability, Comfort, Hygiene
EntranceHygiene
BalconyOpenness, Sociability, Nature-friendliness
2Shin, D.S.; Lee, M.S.; Yu, Y.H. (2022) [11]Overall spaceMultifunctionality, Variability
Kitchen/Dining roomMultifunctionality
BedroomHygiene, Territoriality
BalconyMultifunctionality, Nature-friendliness
OtherHygiene, Territoriality, Multifunctionality
3Lee, D.Y.; Kwon, O.J.; Kim, J.Y. (2022) [17]Overall spaceMultifunctionality, Variability
EntranceHygiene
Kitchen/Dining roomConvenience
BalconyComfort, Openness
4Lim, S.G.; Kim, Y.S.; Song, S.J. (2021) [13]Overall spaceOpenness, Multifunctionality, Independence, Variability
5Jeon, K.S.; Lee, M.S.; Choi, K.B. (2022) [14]Overall spaceHygiene, Territoriality
Kitchen/Dining roomMultifunctionality, Independence, Sociability
BalconyMultifunctionality, Openness, Nature-friendliness
6Choi, J.K.; Lee, J.H.; Lee, H.R. (2022) [15]BalconyNature-friendliness, Openness
7Abed, A. (2021) [24]BalconyComfort, Sociability, Openness, Nature-friendliness, Multifunctionality, Independence, Flexibility
8Kleeman, A.; Foster, S. (2023) [5]Overall spaceTerritoriality, Independence, Flexibility, Multifunctionality
BalconyNature-friendliness, Comfort
9Spennemann, D. H. (2022) [25]BedroomTerritoriality, Openness
10Grigoriadou, E. T. (2021) [26]Overall spaceFlexibility, Openness, Comfort, Multifunctionality, Hygiene
EntranceHygiene
BedroomHygiene, Territoriality, Openness
BalconyNature-friendliness
11Gür, M. (2022) [27]Overall spaceMultifunctionality, Flexibility
EntranceHygiene
12Lekić Glavan, O.; Nikolić, N.; Folić, B.; Vitošević, B.; Mitrović, A.; Kosanović, S. (2022) [28]Overall spaceOpenness, Multifunctionality, Flexibility, Variability, Hygiene
BalconyNature-friendliness
13Peters, T.; Halleran, A. (2020) [29]Living roomMultifunctionality, Flexibility, Independence, Variability
Overall spaceOpenness, Hygiene, Territoriality, Comfort
Kitchen/Dining roomMultifunctionality, Independence
14ElZein, Z.; ElSemary, Y. (2022) [30]EntranceHygiene
BalconyTerritoriality, Sociability, Multifunctionality
15Briseno, A.; Verabian, G.; Walbuck, B.; Campbell, K. (2020) [31]Overall spaceMultifunctionality, Variability
EntranceHygiene
16Morgan, B. (2020) [32]Overall spaceHygiene
17McCausland, C. (2021) [33]Overall spaceMultifunctionality, Variability
18Kimura, D. (2020) [34]Overall spaceHygiene, Openness, Comfort
19Massenburg, D. R. (2021) [35]EntranceHygiene
20Strobel, E. (2020) [36]Kitchen/Dining roomMultifunctionality, Independence
Table 6. Synthesized planning concepts for the apartment unit.
Table 6. Synthesized planning concepts for the apartment unit.
Planning ConceptsDescription
HygieneBuildings 14 00606 i001Planning concepts for residents to lead a hygienic and safe life from infectious diseases, such as social distancing, prevention of contact infection, blocking virus inflow, removal of contaminants, disinfection and sterilization, and ease of cleaning.
ConvenienceBuildings 14 00606 i002A planning concept for conveniently and efficiently carrying out activities performed outside or changing lifestyles, such as various space use, conversion of space use, integration and separation of spaces, and various ages and requirements, within the residential space.
ComfortBuildings 14 00606 i003A planning concept for residents to live comfortably in residential spaces, including a pleasant indoor environment, connection with nature, biophilic design, indoor-outdoor connection, and expansion and connection of external space.
Table 7. Elements of the survey questions.
Table 7. Elements of the survey questions.
CategoryElements
Sociodemographic Characteristics (n = 4)Gender, age, apartment ownership type, household size
Architectural Characteristics (n = 4)Year of construction, number of households, period of residence, floor of residence and highest floor
Apartment unit planning elements to prevent and respond to infectious diseases (n = 27)Hygiene
(n = 9)
Entrance
(n = 5)
Unit-separated floor plan to secure social distancing and self-quarantine space
Separate circulation between the entrance and living room to create a sterilization and disinfection space
Dry sink where residents can wash their hands immediately after returning home
Storage space for handling contaminated items and storing hygiene products
A space where contaminated coats can be sterilized and washed
Kitchen/Dining room
(n = 1)
Hygienic household waste disposal space
Bedroom
(n = 1)
Individual bathroom for removal of contaminants and hygiene of those in self-quarantine
Overall space
(n = 2)
Natural antibacterial and nonporous materials that eliminate bacteria and viruses
Noncontact system to prevent infection through contact
Convenience
(n = 10)
Entrance
(n = 1)
Convenient route for transporting deliveries and couriers
Kitchen/Dining room
(n = 2)
A space where various activities can be carried out using partitions and sliding doors that make it easy to integrate and separate spaces
An independent space that can be used for various purposes, such as working from home or remote learning
Living room
(n = 1)
A space that can be integrated or separated by function using movable walls or folding doors
Bedroom
(n = 1)
A space that can be used as an independent home office using partitions and sliding doors
Balcony
(n = 3)
Space that can be used for various purposes, such as home cafes and home camping
A space that allows expansion and connection of indoor and outdoor spaces using folding doors
A social space to communicate with neighbors
Overall space
(n = 2)
Height-adjustable furniture to accommodate different ages and needs
Flexible furniture that can be folded and stored in a closet or storage space
Comfort
(n = 8)
Entrance
(n = 1)
Space including balcony considering ventilation and lighting
Kitchen/Dining room
(n = 1)
A space with a balcony emphasizing ventilation and lighting
Living room
(n = 1)
Biophilic design for improving physical and psychological health
Balcony
(n = 2)
A private garden capable of food self-sufficiency
Open space with exterior view
Overall space
(n = 3)
Windows providing sufficient lighting and exterior views
Windows with good air circulation and ventilation efficiency
Mechanical ventilation system to maintain/manage indoor air quality
Table 8. The result of the QAs for each item.
Table 8. The result of the QAs for each item.
PriorityPlanning
Concepts
ItemsQAs n (%) Final QA
AMOIQR
1HygieneKitchen/Dining roomPlan a sanitary waste disposal space.109
(36.0)
16
(5.3)
116 *
(38.7)
48
(16.0)
2
(0.7)
9
(3.0)
O
241 (80.3)59 (19.7)
2ComfortOverall spaceTo manage indoor air quality, apply mechanical ventilation when natural ventilation is not possible.84
(28.0)
25
(8.3)
120 *
(40.0)
58
(19.3)
5
(1.7)
8
(2.7)
O
229 (76.3)71 (23.7)
3ComfortKitchen/Dining roomPlan a balcony that can be connected to the outdoor space to ensure good ventilation and lighting during cooking.120 *
(40.0)
15
(5.0)
99
(33.0)
60
(20.0)
1
(0.3)
5
(1.7)
A
234 (78.0)66 (22.0)
4HygieneEntrancePlan a storage space to handle contaminated items brought in from outside and store hygiene products.146 *
(48.7)
7
(2.3)
79
(26.3)
59
(19.7)
3
(1.0)
6
(2.0)
A
232 (77.3)68 (22.7)
5ComfortEntrancePlan to include a balcony in or adjacent to the entrance to facilitate ventilation and lighting.114 *
(38.0)
11
(3.7)
78
(26.0)
80
(26.7)
1
(0.3)
16
(5.3)
A
203 (67.7)97 (32.3)
6ConvenienceEntrancePlan a circulation that connects the entrance, pantry, and kitchen to conveniently transport deliveries and parcels.129 *
(43.0)
7
(2.3)
70
(23.3)
74
(24.7)
2
(0.7)
18
(6.0)
A
206 (68.7)94 (31.3)
7ConvenienceBalconyPlan a space that can interact with the outside through folding doors and that can be integrated and separated from the living room.141 *
(47.0)
10
(3.3)
59
(19.7)
64
(21.3)
4
(1.3)
22
(7.3)
A
210 (70.0)90 (30.0)
8ConvenienceBalconyPlan a space to be used for various purposes, such as home cafes and home camping.159 *
(53.0)
4
(1.3)
57
(19.0)
67
(22.3)
3
(1.0)
10
(3.3)
A
220 (73.3)80 (26.7)
9HygieneOverall spaceTo prevent contact infection, apply a noncontact system to faucets and home appliances.139 *
(46.3)
12
(4.0)
61
(20.3)
73
(24.3)
2
(0.7)
13
(4.3)
A
212 (70.7)88 (29.3)
10HygieneEntrancePlan a dry sink where the residents can wash their hands immediately after returning home.131 *
(43.7)
3
(1.0)
61
(20.3)
74
(24.7)
3
(1.0)
28
(9.3)
A
195 (65.0)105 (35.0)
11ConvenienceOverall spacePlan flexible furniture to accommodate the different ages and needs of occupants.130 *
(43.3)
9
(3.0)
62
(20.7)
83
(27.7)
2
(0.7)
14
(4.7)
A
201 (67.0)99 (33.0)
12ComfortBalconyPlan an open space that provides outside views.121 *
(40.3)
3
(1.0)
55
(18.3)
74
(24.7)
2
(0.7)
45
(15.0)
A
179 (59.7)121 (40.3)
13HygieneEntrancePlan a space where contaminated coats can be sterilized and washed by installing a clothes care machine, washing machine, and dryer.134 *
(44.7)
3
(1.0)
54
(18.0)
75
(25.0)
2
(0.7)
32
(10.7)
A
191 (63.7)109 (36.3)
14HygieneOverall spaceApply natural antibacterial materials that eliminate bacteria and viruses on their own or nonporous materials that have no gaps or holes through which they can pass.108 *
(36.0)
12
(4.0)
71
(23.7)
96
(32.0)
2
(0.7)
11
(3.7)
A
191 (63.7)109 (36.3)
15ComfortOverall spacePlan multiple windows or large windows to provide sufficient lighting and exterior views.122 *
(40.7)
9
(3.0)
53
(17.7)
97
(32.3)
2
(0.7)
17
(5.7)
A
184 (61.3)116 (38.7)
16ConvenienceKitchen/Dining roomMaximize storage and plan a space that allows for a variety of activities through flexible walls that allow for easy integration and separation of spaces.131 *
(43.7)
2
(0.7)
54
(18.0)
103
(34.3)
2
(0.7)
8
(2.7)
A
187 (62.3)113 (37.7)
17ConvenienceKitchen/Dining roomPlan an independent space to secure privacy in the dining area by separating it from the living room to enable telecommuting and remote learning.132 *
(44.0)
4
(1.3)
48
(16.0)
97
(32.3)
1
(0.3)
18
(6.0)
A
184 (61.3)116 (38.7)
18ConvenienceLiving roomPlan a space that can be easily integrated and separated from other spaces to enable various activities of residents.140 *
(46.7)
3
(1.0)
44
(15.0)
94
(31.3)
2
(0.7)
17
(5.7)
A
187 (62.3)113 (37.7)
19ComfortLiving roomApply biophilic design to help promote mental and physical health.116 *
(38.7)
3
(1.0)
39
(13.0)
103
(34.3)
1
(0.3)
38
(12.7)
A
158 (52.7)142 (47.3)
20ConvenienceOverall spacePlan flexible furniture that can be folded and unfolded for efficient use of space.109
(36.3)
4
(1.3)
34
(11.3)
96 *
(32.0)
1
(0.3)
56
(18.7)
I
147 (49.0)153 (51.0)
21ComfortOverall spacePlan windows with good airflow and ventilation efficiency.82
(27.3)
2
(0.7)
39
(13.0)
96 *
(32.0)
4
(1.3)
77
(25.7)
I
123 (41.0)177 (59.0)
22ComfortBalconyPlan a space or system to produce food to enable food self-sufficiency.98
(32.7)
1
(0.3)
39
(13.0)
103 *
(34.3)
3
(1.0)
56
(18.7)
I
138 (46.0)162 (54.0)
23ConvenienceBedroomPlan a home office space separated from the sleeping space using flexible walls that can integrate and separate spaces.113
(37.7)
1
(0.3)
33
(11.0)
103 *
(34.3)
3
(1.0)
47
(15.7)
I
147 (49.0)153 (51.0)
24HygieneBedroomPlan a separate bathroom to remove contaminants and maintain hygiene for those in self-quarantine.80
(26.7)
7
(2.3)
40
(13.3)
111 *
(37.0)
1
(0.3)
61
(20.3)
I
127 (42.3)173 (57.7)
25HygieneEntranceIn addition to the route from the entrance to the living room, create a separate space for sterilization and disinfection between the entrance and the living room.106
(35.3)
7
(2.3)
34
(11.3)
117 *
(39.0)
8
(2.7)
28
(9.3)
I
147 (49.0)153 (51.0)
26HygieneEntranceTo ensure social distancing and self-quarantine space, plan a separate unit floor plan with a separate entrance and bathroom.102
(34.0)
12
(4.0)
22
(7.3)
117 *
(39.0)
13
(4.3)
34
(11.3)
I
136 (45.3)164 (54.7)
27ConvenienceBalconyPlan a social space where you can communicate with neighbors.24
(8.0)
1
(0.3)
15
(5.0)
79
(26.3)
8
(2.7)
173 *
(57.7)
R
40 (13.3)260 (86.7)
* Shows Mode Value.
Table 9. The analysis of the QAs results.
Table 9. The analysis of the QAs results.
PriorityPlanning ConceptsItemsQACSCGuidelines
Better IndexWorse IndexASCRequiredRecommended
1HygieneKitchen/Dining roomPlan a sanitary waste disposal space.O0.779−0.4570.618
2ComfortOverall spaceTo manage indoor air quality, apply mechanical ventilation when natural ventilation is not possible.O0.711−0.5050.608
3ComfortKitchen/Dining roomPlan a balcony that can be connected to the outdoor space to ensure good ventilation and lighting during cooking.A0.745−0.3880.566
4HygieneEntrancePlan a storage space to handle contaminated items brought in from outside and store hygiene products.A0.773−0.2960.534
5ComfortEntrancePlan to include a balcony in or adjacent to the entrance to facilitate ventilation and lighting.A0.678−0.3140.496
6ConvenienceEntrancePlan a circulation that connects the entrance, pantry, and kitchen to conveniently transport deliveries and parcels.A0.711−0.2750.493
7ConvenienceBalconyPlan a space that can interact with the outside through folding doors and that can be integrated and separated from the living room.A0.730−0.2520.491
8ConvenienceBalconyIt is planned to be used for various purposes, such as home cafes and home camping.A0.753−0.2130.483
9HygieneOverall spaceTo prevent contact infection, apply a noncontact system to faucets and home appliances.A0.702−0.2560.479
10HygieneEntrancePlan a dry sink where the residents can wash their hands immediately after returning home.A0.714−0.2380.476
11ConvenienceOverall spacePlan flexible furniture to accommodate the different ages and needs of occupants.A0.676−0.2500.463
12ComfortBalconyPlan an open space that provides outside views.A0.696−0.2290.462
13HygieneEntrancePlan a space where contaminated coats can be sterilized and washed by installing a clothes care machine, washing machine, and dryer.A0.707−0.2140.461
14HygieneOverall spaceApply natural antibacterial materials that eliminate bacteria and viruses on their own, or nonporous materials that have no gaps or holes through which they can pass.A0.624−0.2890.456
15ComfortOverall spacePlan multiple windows or large windows to provide sufficient lighting and exterior views.A0.623−0.2210.422
16ConvenienceKitchen/Dining roomMaximize storage and plan a space that allows for a variety of activities through flexible walls that allow for easy integration and separation of spaces.A0.638−0.1930.416
17ConvenienceKitchen/Dining roomPlan an independent space to secure privacy in the dining area by separating it from the living room to enable telecommuting and remote learning.A0.641−0.1850.413
18ConvenienceLiving roomPlan a space that can be easily integrated and separated from other spaces to enable various activities of residents.A0.655−0.1670.411
19ComfortOverall spaceApply biophilic design to help promote mental and physical health.A0.594−0.1610.377
20ConvenienceOverall spacePlan flexible furniture that can be folded and unfolded for efficient use of space.I0.588−0.1560.372
21ComfortOverall spacePlan windows with good airflow and ventilation efficiency.I0.553−0.1870.370
22ComfortBalconyPlan a space or system to produce food to enable food self-sufficiency.I0.568−0.1660.367
23ConvenienceBedroomPlan a home office space separated from the sleeping space using flexible walls that can integrate and separate spaces.I0.584−0.1360.360
24HygieneBedroomPlan a separate bathroom to remove contaminants and maintain hygiene for those in self-quarantine.I0.504−0.1970.351
25HygieneEntranceIn addition to the route from the entrance to the living room, create a separate space for sterilization and disinfection between the entrance and the living room.I0.530−0.1550.343
26HygieneEntranceTo ensure social distancing and self-quarantine space, plan a separate unit floor plan with a separate entrance and bathroom.I0.490−0.1340.312
27ConvenienceBalconyPlan a social space where you can communicate with neighbors.R0.328−0.1340.231
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Han, S.-J.; Kim, E.-J.; Kim, M.-K. Kano Model for Apartment-Unit Specialized Planning Guidelines to Prevent Infectious Diseases. Buildings 2024, 14, 606. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030606

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Han S-J, Kim E-J, Kim M-K. Kano Model for Apartment-Unit Specialized Planning Guidelines to Prevent Infectious Diseases. Buildings. 2024; 14(3):606. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030606

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Han, Seung-Ju, Eun-Jeong Kim, and Mi-Kyung Kim. 2024. "Kano Model for Apartment-Unit Specialized Planning Guidelines to Prevent Infectious Diseases" Buildings 14, no. 3: 606. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030606

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