THE EFFECT OF VISUAL DESIGN ON THE SUBJECTIVE EVALUATION OF NOISE IN THE ATRIUM SPACE OF THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

University library atriums typically feature spacious areas with high ceilings, which can lead to increased reflections and reverberations from personnel activities, equipment operation, and external noise. This can heighten the overall noise level in the atrium, negatively impacting students' learning efficiency and focus. Consequently, finding effective ways to mitigate the noise in these spaces has become a pressing issue in library atrium design. While existing research has largely focused on objective acoustic design strategies, such as managing noise sources, controlling sound propagation, and enhancing noise absorption and reflection, there has been less emphasis on how users' subjective perceptions of noise can be altered. This study aims to explore the relationship between visual design assessments and subjective noise perceptions by examining how users evaluate noise and the visual design of library atrium spaces. Through a questionnaire survey, the research confirms that elements like natural visual design, color schemes, and spatial layouts can influence the degree of annoyance caused by noise. The findings indicate that natural visual and color tone designs positively affect subjective noise perception, while spatial layout does not show a significant correlation. By enhancing the visual environment, it is possible to effectively lower the subjective annoyance associated with noise, thereby reducing discomfort. This study highlights the potential benefits of visual design elements in alleviating noise annoyance and offers a fresh perspective on enhancing the library learning environment.