A Social Dimension Study of Post-Occupancy Evaluation for Old Residential Communities: A Case Study of Baoshengli North Community in Beijing

Abstract

Against the background of high-quality development and urban renewal in China, old residential communities have become key areas for improving spatial quality and quality of life. We used the entrance pavilion of Baoshengli North Community as a case study to explore how spatial design and layout can meet residents’ psychological and social needs. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, combining field observation, behavioral mapping, a questionnaire (Total = 105), in-depth interviews, and statistical analysis, a post-occupancy evaluation (POE) was conducted on spatial effectiveness and social functions. The results show that user-oriented spatial design, safety, esthetic quality, and inclusive functions significantly enhance residents’ spatial perception, willingness to use the space, and social interaction. Differentiated spatial preferences and potential conflicts among diverse resident groups were also identified. Targeted design interventions can effectively strengthen the connection between spatial use and subjective perception, and participatory and equitable strategies help promote social harmony and justice. This study enriches the post-occupancy evaluation system for the renewal of old communities from psychological and social dimensions, and provides practical references for user-centered, inclusive, and sustainable public space design in urban renewal practices. One limitation of this study is that data were collected over a single period, which restricts the analysis of seasonal impacts on spatial usage.

1. Introduction

Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) is a critical research tool in environmental design. It is used to assess whether completed spaces meet design expectations, provide guidance for subsequent upgrades, and enhance occupant participation. POE has been a systematic theoretical foundation of environmental design research in Western countries since the 1960s, expanding from individual buildings to complex urban spaces [1]. POE research was introduced to China in around 2010 and was formally recognized in 2020, and it has centered mainly on urban public spaces with limited application at the neighborhood or planning scale.

Against the backdrop of China’s high-quality urban development and the promotion of neighborhood-scale renewal pilots, POE has become an increasingly important approach to connect design, use, and optimization. However, existing POE studies at the neighborhood scale in China still have limitations. Most focus on functional and physiological dimensions, such as community facility performance, environmental quality, and basic residential satisfaction, while largely overlooking the spiritual and social aspects of residents’ quality of life.

Even though recent studies have begun to emphasize the significance of soft factors in shaping residential satisfaction, there is still a lack of systematic exploration of the intrinsic relationships among physical space, residents’ mental health, and social well-being. This shortage is particularly evident in research focusing on renovated old residential communities. Such a research gap prevents current POE frameworks from fully reflecting the comprehensive effects of spatial renewal, and limits their ability to provide targeted guidance for resolving spatial conflicts among different social groups and promoting effective community integration.

To address these limitations, we carried out a neighborhood-scale post-occupancy evaluation in a renovated old residential community, focusing on two core dimensions: spatial effectiveness and social governance. We aim to clarify how public space quality influences residents’ social well-being, sense of belonging, and spatial perception, and to develop targeted spatial intervention strategies and decision-making mechanisms for mitigating inter-group conflicts and advancing sustainable community development.

This study contributes to the existing literature by incorporating social well-being, sense of belonging, and spatial perception into the POE framework, thereby overcoming the traditional overemphasis on physical and functional indicators. It also offers theoretical and practical implications for the promotion of people-centered, inclusive, and sustainable renewal in old residential communities.

1.1. Core Research Questions

Against this background, this study focuses on the following core research questions:

• How do entrance area design characteristics in renovated old residential communities shape residents’ spatial perception, sense of attachment, experience of safety, and social interaction?
• How can an integrated, systematic POE approach combining behavioral observation and subjective perception analysis be applied to evaluate spatial effectiveness and user well-being in old community renewal?
• What holistic design and management strategies can be proposed to enhance spatial quality, user satisfaction, social harmony, and long-term sustainability in renovated old residential communities?

1.2. Research Hypotheses

Based on the above research background, questions, and objectives, the following hypotheses were proposed:

H1: 

Well-designed and user-oriented public space arrangements in entrance areas enhance residents’ sense of attachment to the space and promote their social interaction.

H2: 

Spatial design elements, including information and identity signage, safety, and visual and non-visual esthetic features, have significant and positive relationships with residents’ spatial perception and usage behavior.

H3: 

Entrance areas designed to satisfy the needs and expectations of diverse demographic groups strengthen residents’ willingness to use the space and improve their social communication.

H4: 

Field observations of spatial use and analyses of residents’ subjective perceptions jointly verify the relationship between spatial usage and perception, and this relationship is further strengthened by targeted design interventions.

H5: 

Social harmony and equity among diverse resident groups can be improved when spatial design and management strategies are based on egalitarian and participatory approaches.

1.3. Research Focus and Objectives

This study addresses the core research questions from two interrelated dimensions. In terms of spatial effectiveness, this study examines how public space quality contributes to residents’ social well-being, and identifies how spatial design can strengthen residents’ quality perception and sense of belonging toward the community, as well as the key environmental features that should be emphasized in design practice. In terms of social harmony, this study focuses on conflicts among resident groups with different socioeconomic backgrounds, and explores how spatial design and management strategies can support community social integration.

Through dual-dimensional analysis, this study reveals the actual performance and sustainable development paths of renovated old communities, providing theoretical and practical implications for human-centered urban renewal. This study integrates social well-being, quality perception, and sense of belonging into the post-occupancy evaluation framework for old residential community renewal, moving beyond the traditional evaluation model that overemphasizes physical facilities. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach that combines environmental behavior and sociological theories, this study uses mixed methods including quantitative analysis and qualitative inquiry to reveal the intrinsic logic between environmental creation and conflict resolution, thus offering an operational theoretical foundation for relevant research and practice.

2. Background

2.1. Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE): Definition and International Development

As urban built environments continue to expand and evolve, the quality of space and user experience have become central concerns in environmental design research [2]. Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) has emerged as a critical methodology that provides ideas and guidance for the subsequent improvement and upgrading of the built environments [3] and significantly enhances the level of participation of building occupiers [4]. At its core, it examines whether the actual performance of completed buildings meets the original design expectations, thereby providing a scientific reference for future design iterations [5].

With the continuous development of architectural theory and practice, POE has gradually become an indispensable part of design evaluation and decision-making [6]. The field formally emerged in 1968 with the founding of a professional association for environmental design research [1], which shifted the focus of architecture from mere construction to the actual use of buildings and their surrounding environments, as well as the diverse needs and suggestions of end-users [7].

Against the trend of disciplinary separation, POE is increasingly integrated with theories from environmental psychology, sociology, and behavioral science, forming a more comprehensive evaluation paradigm [8]. From the 1970s to the 1990s, POE gradually evolved into an independent discipline. Its scope expanded significantly from individual buildings to more complex and diverse urban spaces [9], including offices [10], military facilities, hospitals [11], and various other public buildings [12]. Concurrently, the integration of computer technology [13] provided robust technical support for POE, enabling more comprehensive assessments of building performance, energy consumption, and multi-dimensional user experiences [14].

2.2. Development of POE in China and Its Integration with Urban Renewal

POE was introduced in China around 2010, and has since developed rapidly within the specific context of China’s urbanization. It gained official recognition when it was included in the second edition of the Terminology of Architecture in 2020. According to this official definition, the POE method encompasses three core dimensions: building performance monitoring, user behavior observation, and satisfaction surveys. This forms a comprehensive evaluation system that covers the entire lifecycle of architectural design, construction, and maintenance [15].

In its initial stage in China, POE research flourished primarily in the academic fields of environmental psychology and environmental behavior [16]. Early applications were predominantly focused on large-scale urban public spaces [17], such as city squares [18] and urban gardens [19]. For instance, researchers combined POE with environmental psychology methodologies to establish an environmental evaluation model for residents in Shanghai through empirical case studies [20]. However, despite these advances, rigorous post-occupancy evaluations conducted at the finer scale of urban planning or residential neighborhoods remained relatively scarce.

Against the backdrop of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025), which prioritizes the comprehensive improvement of urban quality, various regional governments have launched urban renewal pilots, such as “future communities” and “neighborhood pilot zones”. This national strategy has driven POE research into the broader field of urban studies. Currently, neighborhood-scale POE is widely regarded as a vital feedback mechanism for urban design, forming a positive and iterative feedback loop between evaluation results and planning practices [21].

2.3. Current Status and Research Gaps of Neighborhood-Scale POE

As China transitions from a phase of rapid urbanization to high-quality development, POE has become an essential tool in urban planning and design practices [22,23]. Contemporary assessments typically include multi-faceted indicators such as user satisfaction, behavioral patterns, and environmental factors [24]. At the neighborhood scale, the relationship between public space quality and residential satisfaction has emerged as a key focus of evaluation [25].

Studies have explored various aspects of this relationship, such as the impact of optimized community parks on residents’ quality of life [19], the influence of public space environmental quality on the health of the elderly [26], and the role of community complexes in promoting residents’ daily convenience and community management efficiency [27]. However, these studies tend to address relatively straightforward, surface-level interactions between the physical environment and human behavior. They primarily focus on physiological and functional needs, while largely neglecting the deeper spiritual and social dimensions of quality of life and well-being. Consequently, a critical research gap remains in how to systematically evaluate the intricate relationship between physical space, residents’ mental health, and social well-being.

This gap is further highlighted by emerging scholarship. Chen et al. demonstrated that factors influencing residential satisfaction extend beyond tangible hardware conditions (e.g., community facilities and spatial layout) to include intangible soft factors such as community activities, cultural atmosphere, and resident autonomy [28]. Recent studies have even emphasized the importance of incorporating resident satisfaction from a spiritual perspective into post-renewal evaluations, employing sophisticated methods like the IPA–Kano model for empirical analysis [29]. Other research has explored housing value demands in the context of ethnic minority poverty alleviation and relocation [30], and used Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify key factors influencing resident satisfaction after the improvement of outdoor spaces [31]. Despite these advances, there is still little research on how to systematically evaluate the relationship between physical space, residents’ mental health, and social well-being, especially in old residential community contexts.

2.4. Key Term Definitions

To ensure clarity and consistency throughout this study, the following key terms are defined:

Renewal: Refers specifically to the physical and spatial transformation of residential communities. This includes environmental upgrading, public space improvement, and the optimization of infrastructure and facilities.

Improvement/Optimization: These terms are used interchangeably to describe the enhancement of environmental quality, spatial functionality, and overall resident experience.

All three terms (renewal, improvement, optimization) are employed consistently to describe the comprehensive upgrading of the community’s physical space and living environment.

3. Methodology

Data collection was conducted from 5–10 September 2024, due to the representative behavioral patterns and suitable environmental conditions. In September, residents, commuters, and students follow regular daily routines with the start of the academic semester, leading to more stable and diverse behaviors that better reflect year-round patterns compared to those during holiday or vacation periods. Beijing’s average temperature in September (18–26 °C) lies between the extreme summer heat and cold during winter, allowing for flexible and consistent use of public space throughout the day. This ensures comprehensive and representative data for analyzing the functional performance of entrance spaces.

This study follows a three-stage phased research framework (Figure 1). The first stage (5–6 September 2024) includes field observation, trial measuring, and pilot interviews. It aims to understand the community context, resident demographics, activity types, and spatial characteristics, and to establish a structured research design and methodological system.

The second stage (7–10 September 2024) covers formal multi-source data collection using a mixed-methods approach, including questionnaires (n = 105), face-to-face interviews (n = 60), behavior mapping (BM), and on-site observation. Data collected include both objective behavioral trajectories and subjective perceptions covering information recognition, safety and security, visual quality, and non-visual esthetics.

The third stage (20 September–1 December 2024) focuses on data analysis and model construction using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Quantitative questionnaire data are used to identify residents’ behavioral preferences and the relationships between entrance design elements, usage willingness, social interaction, and microclimate conditions. All data were collected in public spaces with fully anonymized personal information; therefore, ethical approval was not required.

3.1. Stage 1: Pilot Study

A pilot study was conducted to validate the research approach and refine the methods for the formal investigation. Field observation, experimental measurement, and interviews were applied to explore and optimize the research design. The detailed implementation process is described below.

3.1.1. Field Observation

Systematic observation was used to understand the spatial usage characteristics at the research site by capturing detailed behavior patterns across time and space. We documented gathering locations and activity types, which typically include resting, socializing and passing through. Related information was recorded at different times of day and different days of the week, and activity duration was also measured.

Data were classified by weekdays and weekends as well as daytime and nighttime. The classification helped the research team map traffic flow trends, and peak usage times and frequently used areas were identified accordingly. We also conducted a non-intrusive population structure survey, collecting key demographic features including age, gender and accompanying status. This provided clear insights into the social dynamics of space users.

Observation data provided a solid basis for questionnaire design and measurement planning. The final research framework is thus more focused and reliable.

The observation procedure followed a standardized and fixed protocol to ensure consistency and replicability across all survey periods.

3.1.2. Trial Measuring

A hybrid questionnaire was designed based on conclusions from the on-site observations, including both closed and open-ended questions. The sample size for data collection was determined by the average daily flow of people in the entrance space. The questionnaire covers key dimensions such as the frequency of space use, functional satisfaction, and behavioral preferences to ensure that the questions are closely related to the research hypotheses.

The subjective perception survey indicators primarily focus on individuals’ psychological cognition and emotional experiences related to space, the environment, or other aspects. Preliminary research identified several potential factors influencing user behavior, including information recognition, security, visual quality, and non-visual esthetics. The subjective questionnaire employed a stratified sampling method to systematically examine the entrance space across these four core dimensions, as summarized in

Table 1. Core dimensions of the subjective perception measurement for the entrance space.

Dimension	Description	Key Evaluation Contents
Information and Recognition	Functionality	Spatial signage and guidance
	Cultural meaning	Spatial structure and landscape coordination
	Orientation
	Sense of belonging	Community culture and belonging
Safety and Security	Safety and security	Reduction in accidental risks
	Risk prevention	Nighttime environment safety
	Security experience	Reduction in crime and antisocial behavior
Visual State	Visual quality	Esthetic satisfaction
	Esthetic effect	View quality
	Spatial openness	Visibility and obstruction level
Non-Visual State	Multi-sensory	Olfactory comfort
		Acoustic environment
	Atmospheric experience	Air quality and humidity
		Spatial tranquility

Four perceptual dimensions were adapted from the BEAT questionnaire and POE literature. All items were measured using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = almost none, 5 = very strong).

:

The questionnaire uses a five-point Likert scale, ranging from “almost none” to “very strong”. The original questionnaire can be found in Supplementary Materials S14. Data collection occurred from 7–10 September 2024, during which a total of 129 interviews were completed. After strict screening and review, 105 valid samples were included in the analysis after eliminating any invalid responses.

These four perceptual dimensions were identified based on a review of POE literature in community renewal and industrial heritage projects, the validated BEAT questionnaire for blue space environments [32], and the findings of our pilot study. From a macro perspective, existing research typically categorizes POE indicators into physical and non-physical dimensions. Physical dimensions commonly include accessibility, esthetics, indoor/outdoor spatial quality, public facilities, architectural features, and functionality; non-physical dimensions encompass historical and cultural values, as well as social impacts [31,33,34,35,36,37,38]. By drawing on the multi-sensory and perceptual structure of the BEAT questionnaire, we further adapted and refined the system to fit the entrance space context of residential communities. Building on this framework, our pilot study further refined these categories to ensure the dimensions are contextually appropriate and tailored to the specific characteristics of the case study. No additional weighting was applied; each dimension was treated equally in the analysis. All items and dimensions were clearly defined and pilot-tested to ensure reliability and ease of replication in future studies.

3.1.3. Pilot Interview

Sixty potential research subjects of varying ages, occupations, and lengths of residence were selected for semi-structured pilot interviews. All interviewees were assigned unique identifiers according to a pre-designed coding system. The code consists of three parts:

Time: T1 for the first survey day, T2 for the second survey day. Group: A represents local original residents, B represents new immigrants or migrants. Sequence: Two-digit numbers (01, 02, 03…) indicate the individual interview order. For example, code T1A01 denotes the first interviewee on day 1, who is a local resident. This coding system ensures traceability and anonymity in qualitative data analysis.

The interview content is divided into two parts. The first part is a socio-demographic survey, which includes questions such as “What is your registered residence?” “What is your daily travel time distribution?” and “What is your age range?” This section systematically collects basic information about the respondents and helps analyze how population diversity affects spatial usage. The second part consists of a questionnaire test, where respondents fill out a draft questionnaire on-site. During this process, researchers record their answering time, any barriers to understanding they encounter, and their feedback suggestions. Based on the test results, the semantically ambiguous questions (such as the definition of “spatial comfort”) were detailed, and redundant questions were deleted to control the questionnaire completion time within 15 min in order to ensure the validity and feasibility of the questionnaire for the formal survey.

3.2. Stage2 Data Collection

3.2.1. Behavior Mapping

To accurately capture the temporal and spatial distribution of human activities, we employed the behavior mapping (BM) method for systematic observations. The data collection period spanned from 7–10 September 2024, encompassing both weekdays and weekends. By implementing high-frequency image recording—six images per hour, or one image every ten minutes—we can fully track the dynamics of spatial use. All photo data collected was imported into a GIS database. The observation period was determined based on the results of the pilot study. Three core time windows were defined to capture weekend activity characteristics: 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. This timeframe includes the peak periods of high-frequency activities throughout the day, ensuring that the collected data effectively represents real characteristics regarding the number of people, types of activities, and their spatial distribution. Using the behavior mapping data, we developed a standardized classification framework, categorizing observed human activities into 15 typical modes based on the functional attributes and behavioral characteristics of these activities. The modes include appreciating scenery from a car, cycling, e-bike delivery riding, informal games, playing with children, sitting, socializing, standing, stopping and staying, walking, walking fast, looking at plants, seeking shelter from the rain, waiting for a car, engaging in quiet activities, and walking a dog. This classification system provides structured data support for the subsequent quantitative analysis of the interactions between spatial behavior and the environment.

All behaviors were coded according to a predefined classification system to ensure consistency. To minimize subjective bias, behavioral coding was performed independently by two researchers. Before formal coding, a unified coding protocol was developed, and a preliminary coding exercise was conducted to ensure consistency. The behavioral classification framework was developed with reference to the Social Domain Aspect 1, use of the site, which is part of Step 3, the site survey in the BlueHealth Environmental Assessment Tool (BEAT) [38]. Based on pilot observations, the original items were adapted and optimized to form a context-appropriate version for Chinese urban public spaces. Inter-rater reliability was examined using Cohen’s kappa coefficient across all 16 behavioral categories, with an overall value of κ = 0.85, suggesting excellent reliability. Any discrepancies or ambiguous observations were discussed thoroughly between the two coders until a consensus was achieved; cases that could not be resolved were excluded to guarantee data accuracy and robustness. Detailed behavior definitions, inclusion and exclusion criteria, and decision rules are provided in Appendix A.

3.2.2. On-Site Observation

The study took place from 5–10 September 2024. Observations were conducted at various times throughout the day, including morning, afternoon, and evening, and over several days, covering both weekdays and weekends. The study design accounted for three common weather conditions—sunny, rainy, and cloudy—to gain a comprehensive understanding of the area’s actual usage patterns. Each observation session was divided into time segments of 7 min. Within a one-hour observation cycle, this allows for 6 time segments (7 min × 6 segments = 42 min), with approximately 3 min reserved for rest between each segment. The observation procedure adheres strictly to principles of standardization and systematization. During the designated observation period, a structured observation method was employed to continuously monitor the target area. By quantitatively analyzing the flow of people, the characteristics of the crowd, and the distribution of various activities, we aimed to create a precise description of space usage. The scanning observation method was used with a timed and fixed-point strategy. At predetermined time points within each segment, we followed a systematic visual scanning path, moving from left to right. This approach ensured a thorough and detailed capture of the dynamic behavior in the target area, thereby enhancing the integrity and accuracy of the observation data.

Observations were conducted at fixed time intervals and fixed locations, following a consistent protocol across all survey days to avoid bias and ensure replicability.

3.2.3. Questionnaire

We used stratified random sampling to select the samples for the questionnaire survey. Data were collected from 7–10 September 2024, including both weekdays and weekends. The survey was conducted during peak and regular hours identified in the pilot study. These periods covered morning and evening peaks on weekdays and daytime periods on weekends. This design helps capture typical space-use scenarios and improve sample representativeness.

Six trained researchers conducted on-site interception surveys at the community entrance and nearby passages. Eligible participants were at least 18 years old and had used the space within the previous month. Researchers invited one to two participants every 10 min to ensure randomness and voluntary participation.

The daily distribution volume was adjusted dynamically according to pedestrian flow and pilot results. A total of 129 questionnaires were collected. Invalid responses were excluded based on missing data, straight-lining, and insufficient completion time. A second round of screening was further implemented to ensure data reliability. Finally, 105 valid samples were retained, with an effective recovery rate of 89%.

Strict data screening and cleaning procedures were applied throughout the process. All steps were clearly documented to support replicability.

3.2.4. Face-to-Face Interview

To systematically explore the public’s perception and experience of the entrance space, we collected data using a semi-structured face-to-face interview. From 5–10 September 2024, professionally trained research assistants used a random sampling strategy at the entrance of Baoshengli North Community, inviting both residents and visitors to participate in interviews on a voluntary basis. Each interview was approximately five minutes long, with data collection standardized and made consistent using a guided script and follow-up questioning techniques. The interview content focused on two main dimensions: space use behavior and subjective perception. Behavioral characteristics were documented through questions such as, “Are you a community owner?”, “Do you typically use the space alone or in groups?”, “How long do you usually stay?”, and “What activities do you mainly engage in?” These questions helped capture the identity attributes, usage patterns, and activity types of the respondents. To explore the role of the entrance space in promoting social interaction, participants were also asked “Do you chat with others here (including acquaintances and strangers)?” All interviews were recorded on-site, and data collation and coding were completed the same day to ensure the integrity of the information. This process provided qualitative support for analyzing the adaptability of spatial functions and user needs.

3.3. Stage 3: Data Analysis

We employed a mixed research method to create a multi-source data fusion analysis framework. It systematically examines residents’ usage characteristics and subjective perceptions of the community entrance space through GIS analysis of spatial behavior data, field observations, face-to-face interviews, and correlation analysis of subjective questionnaire survey data. The face-to-face interviews focused on the individual characteristics and behavior patterns of residents, while the subjective questionnaires assess spatial perception. The spatial behavior database provides objective records that highlight access characteristics and behavioral patterns related to the entrance space. Together, these methods form a comprehensive understanding of residents’ subjective experiences.

The main analysis techniques include descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and linear regression analysis. During data analysis, 105 valid subjective questionnaire responses were imported into SPSS 26.0 software. Specific questions (15, 16, 20, and 24) were scored in reverse and recoded, and new independent variables were constructed based on the theoretical framework to complete data standardization preprocessing.

Descriptive statistics were used to characterize residents’ overall subjective perceptions of the entrance space. Pearson correlation analysis was then conducted to examine the strength and direction of relationships between independent variables and the two dependent variables: space use willingness and social interaction promotion. Multiple linear regression models were then built to quantify the effects of independent variables on these dependent variables.

Supplementary analyses were conducted to test for group differences. Independent sample t-tests were used to assess gender-based variations and one-way ANOVA was used to examine differences related to resident identity. Pearson correlations were also used to explore relationships between age, length of residence, and the dependent variables while controlling for confounding factors.

Spatial behavior (BM) data were integrated into GIS and analyzed alongside temporal dimensions including weekdays, weekends, and daytime periods. During this step, we visualized activity distribution patterns and cross-validated objective behavioral data against subjective perception results.

3.3.1. GIS Spatial Analysis of Multi-Source Data

We used a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform to effectively integrate behavioral trajectories and various activity types, allowing for a clear visualization of the spatial distribution of these activities and their associated intensities. We annotated the behavioral sample data collected through the behavioral mapping (BM) method, which encompasses detailed data points, including behavioral trajectory coordinates, activity type labels, and timestamps. Different types of activity—such as passage, rest, and social interaction—are differentiated using distinct symbols. We organized the activity trajectory points across various time periods and demographic groups, thereby identifying high-frequency areas of activity and zones of low utilization. This methodology provides a comprehensive understanding of the spatial usage characteristics and behavioral distribution patterns exhibited by residents in the entrance area. Furthermore, by analyzing the spatial distribution of activity types, we could investigate the adaptive relationship between behavioral patterns and spatial functions. This visual–spatial annotation serves as a foundational basis for examining the usage patterns of the entrance area, evaluating the appropriateness of its spatial functions, and ultimately providing critical data to inform subsequent optimization designs.

3.3.2. Correlation Analysis of Spatial Functional Elements

We used Pearson correlation analysis to investigate the intrinsic relationships among various spatial functional elements, as indicated in the questionnaire data. These elements encompass information and education, safety and security, non-visual esthetic aspects, and visual conditions. By calculating the correlation coefficients alongside their respective significance levels (p-values) for the variables within each dimension, it is possible to identify statistically significant relationships. Subsequently, a correlation coefficient matrix was constructed to effectively illustrate both synergistic and conflicting relationships among the elements. This analysis elucidates the interaction between spatial functional elements, thereby offering a theoretical framework for the optimization of design strategies.

3.3.3. Analysis of Factors Influencing Space Use Intention

In this section, we examine the quantitative relationship between entrance design elements and residents’ space use intention. Space use intention serves as the dependent variable, and independent variables include information and recognition, safety and security, non-visual esthetics, and visual state.

Pearson correlation analysis was first applied to test linear relationships between each dimension and space use intention. Variables with significant correlations were retained for regression modeling. A multiple linear regression model was then constructed using the least squares method. Standardized regression coefficients were used to quantify the weight of each independent variable.

The objective of this analysis is to elucidate the intrinsic connection between entrance design and space use intention, identify critical factors that influence residents’ behavioral decisions, and furnish a scientific basis for optimizing the entrance space design of older communities, ultimately enhancing environmental attractiveness.

3.3.4. Investigation of the Mechanism Influencing Community Social Interaction Frequency

We examined the effects of entrance space design elements on community social interaction frequency. The dependent variable is social interaction promotion, with in-dependent variables including information and recognition, safety and security, non-visual esthetics, and visual state.

As with the previous analysis, Pearson’s correlation analysis was first used to identify design dimensions significantly associated with social interaction. A multiple linear regression model was then established, and standardized regression coefficients were applied to compare the relative importance of each independent variable.

This analysis quantifies the direct impact of entrance design elements on social interaction frequency, clarifies differences in their influence weights, and highlights the dominant role of core dimensions such as visual environment and safety perception. Empirical findings provide targeted recommendations for optimizing public spaces in old communities and enhancing community cohesion.

Prior to the formal analysis, relevant statistical assumptions were examined, including normality, linearity, and homoscedasticity. VIF and tolerance values were calculated to detect multicollinearity among independent variables, and no significant collinearity was observed.

Correlation analysis was conducted to explore the bivariate relationships between variables. Multiple linear regression was adopted to examine the predictive effects of the four perception dimensions on the dependent variables (i.e., usage willingness and communication improvement), which is suitable for identifying key influencing factors in environmental behavior studies. ANOVA was used to compare differences among groups with different demographic characteristics.

The coefficient of determination R² was reported as the measure of effect size and explanatory power of the regression model. The model selection and variable configuration were based on theoretical foundations and existing literature.

All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 26.0, including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression.

To enhance methodological transparency and reproducibility, all procedures, including field observation, behavior mapping, questionnaire distribution, and face-to-face interviews, were conducted under a standardized and consistent protocol. The sampling strategy, data screening criteria, variable definitions, and activity classification framework were clearly documented throughout the research process to ensure that the entire workflow is traceable and replicable in future studies.

4. Case Study Region

Beijing’s urban development exhibits a layered expansion pattern framed by ring roads. This pattern originates from a combination of the city’s historical evolution and modern planning. The ring roads not only serve as the backbone of transportation but also reflect changes in land use, economic activities, and housing prices. The main ring roads in Beijing are the Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Ring Road. Each area surrounding these roads has different functional characteristics. The Second Ring Road surrounds the core area of Beijing’s old city, where historical and cultural heritages such as the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are located. It is the core area for politics, culture, and high-end service industries. The Third Ring Road connects important functional areas such as Financial Street and Zhongguancun (Technology Center), serving as a hub for commerce, finance, and transportation, and is a dense belt of urban economic activity. The Forth Ring Road is a product of the city’s outward expansion, with large residential areas and commercial complexes distributed along it, and encompasses the main area for urban residential and consumption functions. The Fifth Ring Road is a highway that connects suburbs and satellite cities, and its main function is alleviating traffic pressure and promoting regional integrated development. The Sixth Ring Road is the outermost ring road, focusing on freight transportation, logistics, and ecological isolation, and it plays a key role in protecting the city’s periphery. This spatial structure is illustrated in Figure 2.

This circular development model has formed a distinct layered structure, including economic gradients, transportation and expansion, and differentiation in real estate. For example, housing prices decrease as one moves outward from the city center. The area within the Second Ring Road has the highest prices due to land scarcity and location advantages, while the peripheral areas place more emphasis on residential functionality and cost-effectiveness. Even though housing prices in peripheral areas are significantly lower than those within the Second Ring Road, issues such as land use disputes and social inequities still arise due to urban expansion.

The community selected for this case study is Baoshengli North Community, located in the North Fifth Ring area. Before urban expansion, this area was farmland owned by local farmers. After development, it became a residential area, with dozens of six-story panel buildings. The famers were forced to move into these buildings instead of living in their own houses. With the expansion of the city, some emerging technology companies have chosen to establish their headquarters in the North Fifth Ring area, and as a result, communities like Baoshengli North have become the preferred residential areas for technology company employees. Technology companies have driven the rapid rise in real estate prices, with housing prices in this community increasing tenfold. Meanwhile, the influx of immigrants brought by technology companies has changed the demographic structure of residents in this region. Therefore, urban expansion has changed the land ownership and rearranged the population structure, giving rise to a series of social issues.

The resident structure in Baoshengli North is a ratio of three newcomers to one local farmer. The differentiation in population structure has given rise to series of social issues, such as conflicts over the use of public spaces in neighborhoods, differences in residents’ identity, and obstacles to social interaction in neighborhoods, which are deep-rooted social problems. Therefore, in the new round of urban renewal, more attention should be paid to how to resolve and eliminate these neighborhood generation gaps through the improvement of public spaces, creating more harmonious neighborhood social well-being, rather than just focusing on repairing and painting physical environments and facilities such as corridors and streetlamps.

When we were conducting a POE study on the renovation and transformation of Baoshengli North, a newly built entrance pavilion caught our attention. This pavilion employed the method of urban acupuncture, using minimal intervention measures to simultaneously address multiple issues such as traffic diversion at the entrance, community image shaping, and promoting neighborhood social well-being (see Figure 3). The POE study of this entrance pavilion is more in line with our expected renewal strategy for old communities like Baoshengli North with complex social backgrounds and diverse population structures and has great reference value for future community renewal. This article introduces the results of the POE survey on this pavilion and the specific study methods developed for it. The surrounding environment of the community is depicted in Figure 4.

5. Results

5.1. The Entrance Pavilion Provides a Space to Promote Short-Term Social Well-Being

In the initial design, the designer hoped to provide residents and visitors with a leisure place where they could stay and communicate, to promote in-depth social interaction among neighborhood residents. However, crowd activity data (Figure 5) showed that walking, cycling, playing with children and informal games were the top four activity trajectories of 66 people on weekdays, while socializing, standing, and brisk walking in the pavilion ranked last. Further analysis found that, other than children and the elderly who care for them, people generally lack the desire to stay here for a long time, and the pavilion serves more as a transportation passage.

This contradiction was verified through interviews with the long-stay group. Interviewee T1A06 pointed out that although he expected to have a suitable social space, the noisy traffic and human voices at the entrance and the lack of safety forced him to turn to the seats near the parking lot to rest (Figure 6). This phenomenon essentially stems from the conflict between the pavilion’s location and functional positioning. As a transportation hub at the entrance and exit of the community, there is a structural contradiction between the high-density flow of people and vehicles and the quiet and safe attributes required for social interaction, which causes residents to actively avoid staying for a long time. Some areas with poor environmental conditions but far away from traffic have even become gathering points for the elderly.

Despite the limited social functions in the long term, field research and interviews revealed the unique value of pavilions in short-term stay scenarios. A large number of temporary activities took place here within 10–30 min. T1A15 used it as a fixed place to meet with neighbors; T1A20 chose to wait for online ride-hailing cars here when traveling; T2A31 was used to letting visiting friends stay for a rest; and T2A33 even regarded it as an emergency shelter space during sudden rain. These fragmented behavior patterns show that pavilions are deeply embedded in the daily travel and interactions of residents. By meeting functional needs such as waiting for a car, meeting, and taking shelter from the rain, informal social interactions such as nodding and daily greetings are naturally triggered. Further deconstruction of the pavilion’s spatial function found that it not only functions as a traffic connection point and an emergency shelter, but also evolves into a public extension interface of family life. Residents complete private affairs such as temporary handover of items and telephone communication here, projecting some functions of the family space into the public space. This “temporary, multifunctional, and high frequency” usage feature verifies the indispensability of short-term public spaces in high-density urban communities. Its value is not reflected in the carrying capacity of deep social interaction, but in building a micro-social network for residents’ daily lives through convenience and accessibility.

By comparing the behavior maps of weekdays and weekends (Figure 7 and Figure 8), it can be seen that the attractiveness of the pavilion is significantly improved after the daily morning rush hour (9–16 o’clock) when the traffic is reduced. Elderly people and people with children become the main user groups. Despite the existence of professional leisure spaces such as Xisanqi Park in the surrounding area, they still tend to choose pavilions as sites of daily activity, reflecting their dual needs for “convenience” and “safety”. It is worth noting that most of these elderly people are parents of “new Beijingers” who come to Beijing to help raise their grandchildren. The entrance pavilion provides them with a low-threshold, highly accessible daily activity space, accurately matching the space usage preferences in the intergenerational family support scenario, further highlighting its practical significance as a community micro-social hub.

5.2. The Impact of Safety and Security on Residents’ Psychology

We constructed an evaluation system of four dimensions, namely, information and identification, safety and security, visual conditions, and non-visual esthetics, through a systematic quantitative analysis of the questionnaire data of residents’ subjective feelings at the entrance pavilion of the community. As shown in Figure 9, the average scores of the three dimensions of information and identification, safety and security, and visual conditions all exceeded 3.70, indicating that residents were highly satisfied and had strong consistency in evaluation; while in the dimension of non-visual esthetics, the average score of 2.83 was significantly lower than that of other dimensions, revealing that the space had obvious deficiencies in non-visual sensory experience such as odor control and sound environment optimization.

Quantitative correlation analysis (

Table 2. Pearson correlation analysis between independent variables.

	Information and Identification	Safety and Security	Visual Condition	Non-Visual Esthetics
Information and Identification
Safety and Security	0.361 **
Visual Condition	0.230 *	0.294 **
Non-Visual Esthetics	0.193 *	0.182	0.067

* p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01. n = 105 valid samples. All items were measured using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = almost none, 5 = very strong).

) further revealed that the dimension of safety and security was significantly positively correlated with the dimensions of information identification and visual conditions (r = 0.361, 0.294, p < 0.01), confirming the positive role of the completeness of the community sign system, lighting safety design, and scientific visual layout in promoting residents’ sense of security. This conclusion not only echoes the high satisfaction with the sense of security in the residents’ questionnaire but also reveals the synergistic relationship between environmental elements.

Further analysis from the perspective of group differences found that the “new Beijingers”, who are mainly employed in the Internet industry, have particularly outstanding evaluations of the safety and security dimensions. Their frequent need to return home late from work means that the bright lighting facilities at the entrance and the oblique upward and highly visible architectural design are key factors in enhancing the sense of security. This design strategy, which combines the functions of directional signs and visual transparency, effectively alleviates the environmental anxiety of late-returning residents by strengthening spatial recognition and psychological suggestion. At the same time, the identification system composed of design elements such as the shape of the entrance space and the configuration of green plants is in line with the recognizability of “landmarks” in Lynch’s urban image theory, breaking through the material limitations of traditional landmarks and forming a “spatial landmark” that integrates positioning, memory carrying, and social interaction functions. This landmark is not a single physical sign, but through the integration of spatial positioning, community memory carrying and social interaction promotion and other multi-dimensional functions, it has achieved a value leap from physical space to spiritual landmark. This design practice of transforming functional space into an iconic structure fully demonstrates the designer’s balance between morphological esthetics and functional requirements and confirms its innovation and effectiveness in entrance space design.

After deconstruction and analysis, the sense of security dimension was subdivided into four sub-dimensions: traffic, lighting, facility maintenance, and behavioral environment. According to field research, the current situation combining a mixed traffic of people and vehicles, the lack of unified standard lighting management, aging and damaged facilities, and uncivilized behavior (Figure 10) all have a negative impact on residents’ sense of security. This shows that although the community has gained psychological recognition in building a sense of security, there is still significant room for improvement in spatial design optimization and operation and maintenance management.

5.3. The Impact of Information and Recognition on the Psychology of Residents

We systematically analyzed the interactive mechanism by which multiple factors influence residents’ spatial perception through the combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. Pearson correlation analysis was first used to reveal the internal correlation between independent variables. The results (Table 2) revealed that the information recognition dimension was significantly correlated with the visual condition and non-visual esthetic dimension (p < 0.05), confirming the subtle influence of visual design elements (color, layout, visibility) and non-visual experience (atmosphere, comfort) on spatial cognition and environmental identity. In order to further explore the influencing factors of visual esthetics, the research team conducted in-depth interviews with residents, focusing on issues such as “the overall visual experience brought by the entrance pavilion”. Qualitative analysis based on in-depth interviews shows that residents give multi-dimensional recognition to the aesthetic value of the entrance space. In terms of material technology, respondent T1B23 praised the detailed structure for its ingenuity; in terms of morphological design, T1B28 highly praised the artistry and coordination of the overall shape; in terms of landscape configuration, T2B08 said that the natural atmosphere created by the green plants significantly enhanced the aesthetic value of the space; and from the perspective of community quality image, T2B14 respondents said that the iconic portal shape strengthened community image recognition and effectively enhanced the residents’ sense of identity and psychological belonging. Through humanized design strategies, the entrance pavilion transforms aesthetic value, functional attributes and safety characteristics into building elements of community belonging and positive psychological state, showing the highly correlated influence of information recognition dimension factors in public space design on all levels, and their deep influence on the psychological level of residents.

However, the low score (mean 2.83) of the non-visual perception dimension exposes a contradiction with reality. Noise pollution and exhaust emissions from traffic arteries seriously interfere with residents’ sensory experience, while the optimization suggestions for aromatic plants proposed by residents are difficult to implement due to them attracting mosquitos, highlighting the complexity of balancing ecological beautification, sensory experience, and health needs in the renovation of public spaces in old communities. Although the entrance pavilion received high satisfaction ratings in the dimensions of information recognition, security, and visual experience, it can be seen that the actual utilization rate of the pavilion is low. This contradictory phenomenon confirms the of emotional identification by physical space and highlights the importance of humanized design in the psychological construction of public space.

We further quantified the interactive effects of various factors on residents’ spatial perception and verified them using a constructed “correlation analysis-linear regression”. Focusing on the correlation between independent variables and dependent variables, the willingness to use the entrance pavilion and the improvement of communication opportunities were selected as the core dependent variables, and the influence of design elements was quantitatively analyzed (

Table 3. Relationship between independent variables and dependent variables (Pearson’s correlation analysis).

	Information and Identification	Safety and Security	Visual Condition	Non-Visual Esthetics
Willingness to use the entrance pavilion	0.364 **	0.181	0.058	0.064
Improvement of communication opportunities	0.598 **	0.242 *	0.088	0.157

* p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01. n = 105 valid samples. All items were measured using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = almost none, 5 = very strong).

). The results of the correlation test show that the information and identification dimension is significantly positively correlated with the willingness to use the entrance pavilion (r = 0.364, p < 0.01) and the improvement of communication opportunities (r = 0.598, p < 0.01); the safety and security dimension is also significantly correlated with the improvement of communication opportunities (r = 0.242, p < 0.05), which preliminarily confirms the potential driving effect of each factor on residents’ behavioral decision-making.

In order to verify the conclusions of the correlation analysis and clarify the weight of factors, we constructed a multiple linear regression model.

Further multiple linear regression analysis corroborated the aforementioned correlations. In a model of willingness to use the entrance pavilion (

Table 4. The predictive effects of four independent variables on willingness to use the entrance pavilion.

	B	Standard	T-Value	p-Value	VIF	Tolerance
Constant	0.599	1.065	0.562	0.575
Information and Identification	0.64	0.185	3.463	0.001	0.836	1.196
Safety and Security	0.161	0.241	0.67	0.505	0.811	1.234
Visual Condition	−0.084	0.194	−0.434	0.665	0.896	1.116
Non-Visual Esthetics	−0.03	0.21	−0.144	0.886	0.948	1.055
R2	0.137
Adjustment R2	0.103
F	F (4100) = 3.978, p = 0.005
D-W	1.884

Dependent variable = Willingness to use the entrance pavilion.

), the standardized regression coefficient for the information and identification dimension was significant (β = 0.352, p < 0.001). While the model’s explanatory power (R² = 0.103) is modest, indicating that other unmeasured factors also contribute to residents’ willingness to use, the significant β coefficient confirms that this dimension exerts a statistically significant positive predictive effect independent of other variables.

In contrast, when the improvement of communication opportunities was the dependent variable (

Table 5. The predictive effects of four independent variables on increased opportunities for social interaction through the entryway.

	B	Standard	T-Value	p-Value	VIF	Tolerance
Constant	−1.057	0.915	−1.155	0.251
Information and Identification	1.072	0.159	6.758	0.000	0.836	1.196
Safety and Security	0.094	0.207	0.454	0.651	0.811	1.234
Visual Condition	−0.124	0.167	−0.741	0.460	0.896	1.116
Non-Visual Esthetics	0.088	0.180	0.490	0.626	0.948	1.055
R2	0.363
Adjustment R2	0.338
F	F (4100) = 14.252, p < 0.001
D-W	1.78

Dependent variable = Increased opportunities for interaction.

), the information and identification dimension exhibited a stronger association (β = 0.590, p < 0.001), with the model explaining 33.8% of the variance, indicating a substantial and meaningful predictive effect. Collectively, these results suggest that the “information and identification” dimension is closely linked to residents’ behavioral decision-making mechanisms, primarily by enhancing spatial cognitive efficiency and wayfinding clarity.

When entrance spaces integrate functional information displays (e.g., item storage, community bulletin boards) with esthetic visual design (e.g., cultural symbols, color systems), residents’ sense of control and place identity are likely to improve, which may subsequently increase their willingness to use the space and engage in social interaction. This finding positions the information and identification dimension as an important practical entry point for public space design interventions. By embedding practical information and cultural symbols, entrance spaces can transcend their traditional role as physical thresholds, serving as composite carriers for both functional utility and emotional connection. This approach offers a contextually relevant and replicable design strategy for activating spatial vitality in high-density urban communities.

5.4. Conflicts in Residents’ Needs Cause Unfair Use of Space

As a typical case of a renewed old residential area in Beijing, there is significant demographic heterogeneity in the West District of Baoshengli North (Figure 11; data derived from the social background survey of questionnaires).

Most of the original residents are “old Beijingers” who were resettled during early rural demolition, with long years of residence (living here before the community was built in 2004), older age structure, and lower income level. The deep sense of regional belonging and historical memory have formed a special spatial cognitive logic. Some residents are resistant to paying property fees based on the idea that this is the land passed down from their ancestors. In contrast, the “new Beijingers” from outside achieve settlement through personal development. They are generally highly educated, mostly work in high-tech and financial industries, have high economic strength and social status, and form an intergenerational cohabitation model after forming a family. Since the current property management fees do not match the high housing prices, this group expects to obtain high-quality community services and pursue a modern quality of life through property fee investment. The differences in the growth background, economic conditions, and lifestyles of the two groups form the basis for a collision of multicultural communities and complex social relations. The quantitative analysis shown in Figure 9 shows that the two indicators of “willingness to use the entrance pavilion” and “degree of improvement in social opportunities” show high dispersion (standard deviation is 1.51), which is rooted in the contradiction of fairness in space use caused by differences in household backgrounds. The contradiction between “old Beijingers” and “new Beijingers” in terms of public space demand is described below.

5.4.1. Differentiation of Usage Patterns

Behavioral observation data show that “old Beijingers” tend to gather in front of the carport for socializing, while “new Beijingers” more often use the entrance space for parent–child activities, forming a significant division in space use preferences (Figure 12).

5.4.2. Management of Cognitive Conflict

According to the interview records of security guards, there are significant differences between different groups in their willingness to pay property fees and their demand for public facilities. Result 1 shows that “old Beijingers” have a low demand for extended lighting time due to their regular work and rest schedules and lack of nighttime activities, and they resist the sharing of related costs; “new Beijingers” frequently return home late due to their occupational characteristics, and regard night lighting as a safety necessity, believing that insufficient lighting is a manifestation of an unbalanced distribution of spatial rights and interests. This disagreement has led to a shortage of funds for the maintenance of entrance lighting facilities and the idleness and disrepair of the rainwater collection system. The green design of the entrance pavilion that incorporates pine trees has caused continuous disputes among generations due to the traditional folk concept of “pine and cypress are not allowed near houses”, which ultimately led to a significant weakening of the pavilion’s recognition as a spatial landmark. The above conflicts essentially reflect the deep-seated contradictions among heterogeneous residential groups in the process of rapid urbanization in terms of spatial usage habits, cultural cognition, and rights and interests, which poses severe challenges to the long-term governance of public spaces in old communities.

5.4.3. Opposing Values

From Result 1, it can be seen that new Beijingers have high requirements for entrance quality and recognize the role of modern design style in improving community quality. “Old Beijingers” mostly adhere to the concept of pragmatism and generally believe that the existing space is “usable”, with limited acceptance of new design elements and generally no need for design updates. This difference not only reflects the opposition between different groups in esthetic preferences but also reflects the collision of values behind them between tradition and modernity, practical needs, and quality pursuit.

6. Discussion

6.1. Public Space Plays an Underappreciated Role in Improving Social Well-Being

Traditional renovation practices for aging communities have primarily concentrated on infrastructure repair, often neglecting the critical function of public spaces in facilitating social interactions. This study’s examination of the entrance pavilion demonstrates that, despite its proximity to a major traffic artery (which limits its long-term social utility), it unexpectedly serves as a high-frequency gathering spot that encourages resident interaction during short visits of 10 to 30 min. This finding indicates that when creating high-quality public spaces, it is essential to consider the dual requirements for both prolonged social interactions and brief encounters.

However, because the pavilion is situated at the community’s main entrance, heavy pedestrian traffic disrupts its social functions and hinders residents’ ability to linger and engage in extended conversations. This underscores the need for future renovation projects to enhance site condition assessments. When resources allow, strategies such as installing small recreational facilities in various locations and optimizing pedestrian flow can help alleviate the spatial conflict between traffic and social functions, ultimately improving the efficacy of public space usage.

6.2. Entrance Landmark Design Strengthens Residents’ Psychological Identity

This study demonstrates that a scientifically designed lighting system and visual identification significantly transform the entrance pavilion beyond its traditional function as a mere physical sign. By adopting an innovative approach to “spatial landmarks”, this design serves as a spiritual repository that encapsulates community memory and fosters a sense of belonging. The implementation of such a design not only enhances residents’ perceptions of spatial security but also transmutes functional spaces into focal points for emotional identification through symbolic representation and scene creation.

The findings affirm that this landmark design notably increases residents’ engagement with the entrance space, thereby underscoring its beneficial influence on identity enhancement. This insight offers valuable guidance for renovating older communities: future initiatives should transcend mere physical updates of material spaces and instead address residents’ profound needs for emotional belonging and cultural identity through iconic design initiatives, which will facilitate a transition from spatial transformation to the cultivation of a distinctive sense of place.

6.3. The Influence of Diverse Social Demographic Structures on Spatial Transformation

Against the backdrop of rapid urbanization in Beijing, real estate market fluctuations have led to increasingly diverse demographic compositions within many communities, introducing significant complexity to urban governance that demands systematic solutions. This study underscores that comprehensive socioeconomic profiling of residents must be conducted in the initial stages of renovation. To address the heterogeneous spatial needs of these diverse groups, a collaborative design framework involving multiple stakeholders is indispensable.

For instance, integrating new energy technologies can reduce the operational and maintenance costs of public facilities, thereby mitigating interest disparities among residents of varying economic backgrounds. Concurrently, establishing a dynamic management system is critical to reconciling functional conflicts, such as those between pedestrian traffic and social activities. Furthermore, the post-occupancy evaluation (POE) mechanism can quantitatively identify gaps between actual user needs and initial design expectations, providing a scientific basis for subsequent spatial optimization.

This study confirms that ensuring equitable space utilization is not merely a technical enhancement but a pivotal strategy for fostering social integration and achieving spatial justice. These findings hold significant theoretical and practical implications for advancing the quality of public spaces in aging urban communities.

It should be noted that the study has some limitations. Due to the single-case design and contextual characteristics, the interpretation and generalization of the results may be subject to certain constraints. Some inferences are based on existing data and literature, and potential subjectivity cannot be fully excluded. To improve objectivity, validity, and reliability, future studies can adopt multi-case comparisons and more rigorous analytical strategies to enhance the applicability of the findings.

7. Conclusions

7.1. Main Findings

This study aims to contribute to sustainable and user-oriented urban space design by revealing the relationships between spatial design, user psychology, and behavior, with both academic significance and practical guiding value.

Although this study is a single-case, short-term field investigation, it provides context-specific, evidence-based insights for understanding the relationship between spatial environment and resident experience in old urban communities. The theoretical discussions and policy implications proposed herein are preliminary and illustrative rather than universally applicable, and are intended to support local-level renewal practices. These findings may serve as a reference for similar old residential communities, provided that appropriate validation and adjustment are undertaken in future multi-site and long-term studies.

7.1.1. User Behaviors and the Meaning of Spatial Use

In megacities such as Beijing, aging residential communities face complex challenges involving the intertwined and diverse demands of different resident groups. Spatial use habits and behaviors are closely linked to social, psychological, and environmental factors, and clear differences exist in spatial preferences and needs between different user groups, such as long-standing and new residents and those from varied socioeconomic backgrounds. This study takes a representative community as a case study and provides exploratory insights relevant to similar old residential communities in Beijing. The research shows that the divergent needs among different groups extend beyond material renewal such as surface renovation and corridor maintenance. They are more deeply reflected in tensions related to social interaction patterns and spatial identity.

7.1.2. Psychological Effects of Spatial Design

Spatial environment design produces positive or negative effects on users’ psychological factors including safety, sense of belonging, and satisfaction, among which safety and perceptual comfort are critical to users’ acceptance of the space.

By integrating social infrastructure such as pavilions and shared spaces, this study explores how informal interaction scenarios may alleviate neighborhood barriers and offers spatial intervention strategies to mitigate community conflicts. Meanwhile, landmark designs that integrate local characteristics and collective memory can strengthen residents’ sense of belonging and support their communication needs. This perspective goes beyond traditional functionalism, seeking a coordinated optimization of spatial form and social–psychological dynamics.

7.1.3. Conflicts Between Different Groups and Proposed Solutions

The study further illustrates that issues such as socioeconomic differentiation and residential space restructuring, often influenced by housing price dynamics, are closely associated with key challenges in urban renewal, including the balancing of multiple interests and bridging social gaps. To resolve spatial conflicts caused by differences between social, economic and cultural groups, corresponding strategies should be formulated to ensure fairness and balance in public spaces. Micro-level community renewal carries important implications for addressing contradictions within urban social structures. The social problem-oriented design thinking framework proposed in this study highlights the value of inclusive spaces that respond to socioeconomic differences and unbalanced demands.

7.1.4. Design and Management Proposals

Based on the above findings, a series of design and management suggestions are put forward to improve space use and perception, especially in terms of safety, social interaction and spatial efficiency. A holistic design and management strategy integrating spatial, social and management approaches is constructed based on public participation and sustainability, so as to create a more harmonious and effective public space in both architectural and social dimensions.

Specific proposals include the following:

• Adopting design approaches that take into account the needs and expectations of various user groups and strengthen people’s psychological and emotional connections.
• Enhancing esthetic and psychological comfort by integrating sensory factors such as lighting, color, and natural elements.
• Improving the perception of security through optimized lighting systems and strengthened maintenance and management.
• Promoting multi-stakeholder participation and developing collaborative governance models to enhance spatial sustainability and local adaptability.
• Designing spaces that encourage both temporary and long-term social interactions, supported by activity and recreational facilities.
• Establishing continuous monitoring of user satisfaction and spatial effectiveness, and carrying out regular feedback and improvement mechanisms.

This study emphasizes a shift from material space renewal toward the improvement of community well-being, providing a theoretically and practically grounded design reference for people-oriented urban renewal.

Methodologically, it combines fixed-point observation, on-site behavioral recording, in-depth interviews, and questionnaire surveys to form a systematic and replicable analytical procedure for post-occupancy evaluation. This integrated analytical procedure supports the systematic assessment of space use efficiency and changes in residents’ perceptions before and after design interventions. The findings verify the role of high-quality public space in promoting community vitality, enhancing the contextual application and empirical rigor of POE approaches in old community renewal.

In practical terms, this study moves the focus of urban renewal design beyond traditional infrastructure improvement and toward a more comprehensive perspective that emphasizes social well-being and identity construction. It clarifies the core goals of old community renewal in the contemporary context. In response to differentiated social needs shaped by housing market dynamics, this study supports the establishment of a multi-stakeholder collaborative design and management mechanism, providing empirical and theoretical support for the adaptive response and sustainable governance of aging community demands.

7.2. Suggested Design Principles

Given the limited data available in this study, the proposed design approach is established based on the following fundamental principles:

• Participatory Design with User and Stakeholder Collaboration: Participatory processes should be introduced in spatial design and management to fully understand the needs and expectations of diverse social groups and age groups.
• Landmark and Iconic Design with Local Cultural Identity: Symbolic elements that reflect local characteristics, cultural architecture, and social memory should be applied to strengthen residents’ sense of belonging and social identity.
• Flexible and Multipurpose Spatial Design: Considering the limited data and observations, spaces should be designed to be multi-functional, easily accessible, and adaptable to meet diverse user needs.
• Dynamic and Flexible Spatial Elements: Modular and adaptable designs should be adopted to encourage spatial usage, facilitate movement and social interaction, and integrate natural elements and activity areas.
• Integration of Data Collection and Feedback Mechanisms: Systems that support continuous improvement through user feedback and long-term observation should be embedded into the design process.
• Environmentally and Socially Sustainable Approaches: The space should be designed in harmony with nature and society, using natural materials, green infrastructure, and ecological design as fundamental principles.

7.3. Limitations and Future Research

Several limitations should be acknowledged. First, this study was conducted in only one old community in Beijing, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings to other types of neighborhoods or cities. Second, the field investigation was carried out only during several consecutive days in September 2024, representing just one season. Since data collection was limited to this specific timeframe, the influences of seasonal changes, daylight conditions, and climatic variations on public space usage could not be captured. Therefore, the observed activity patterns may not fully represent residents’ long-term behavioral characteristics. In addition, the regression model for use willingness showed a relatively low explanatory power (R² = 0.103), indicating that built environment factors can only partially explain residents’ behavior. Other unobserved factors, including personal, social, and psychological attributes, may also play important roles in influencing space use.

These methodological constraints, together with limitations related to time, cost, and data analysis complexity, imply that interpretations regarding activity patterns, social well-being, and space use efficiency should be viewed as context-specific rather than universally applicable. The limited observation period and potential sampling bias may also lead to an incomplete understanding of key variables such as residents’ long-term usage patterns and seasonal activity dynamics, further restricting the generalizability of the findings.

Future studies should extend the observation period across multiple seasons to examine the long-term effects of spatial interventions, adopt longer monitoring durations, include larger samples, and conduct multi-case and cross-regional comparative studies to strengthen the robustness and generalizability of the results.

Future research could also integrate digital tools, GIS technologies, sensors, and data analytics to further improve the scope, depth, and transparency of data collection and analysis. The findings of this study are mainly applicable to old residential communities in megacities such as Beijing, and appropriate adjustments should be made according to specific local contexts.

In this way, more comprehensive and reliable findings can be provided for sustainable, user-centered urban renewal practices.