Evaluating The Role Of Sustainable Interior Design In Smart City Development: A Case Study At Hail University

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the impact of sustainable interior design implementation on smart city development through a comprehensive case study at Hail University, examining its role in enhancing building performance and occupant well-being within educational facilities.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed over 12 months, comparing three buildings with sustainable design interventions against three control buildings. Data collection included energy consumption monitoring, indoor environmental quality measurements, occupant satisfaction surveys (n=1,200), and stakeholder interviews (n=43).
Results: Implementation of sustainable interior design features resulted in a 25% reduction in total energy consumption, significant improvements in indoor environmental quality parameters, and a 30% increase in occupant satisfaction and productivity. Cost-benefit analysis revealed a payback period of 7.1 years and a positive net present value of 4.42 million SAR over ten years.
Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that thoughtfully implemented sustainable interior design strategies can yield substantial benefits across multiple dimensions of building performance and occupant experience while remaining economically viable.
Significance: This research provides empirical evidence for the integration of sustainable interior design in educational facilities, particularly in regions with extreme climates, offering a practical model for institutions seeking to enhance their environmental performance and contribute to smart city initiatives.