Immersed in Evidence: Integrating behavioural data into full-scale healthcare prototypes for evidence-based co-design

Full-scale mock-ups are invaluable in the architectural design process, particularly in healthcare, as they enable stakeholders to collaboratively assess spatial layouts in a near-real environment. However, these mock-ups often lack integration with behavioural data, missing an opportunity to combine empirical insights with full-scale physical prototyping. This study introduces immersive evidence, a framework that integrates behavioural data—such as interaction hotspots and visibility analysis—into full-scale prototypes of healthcare environments. A pilot study was conducted in a simulation facility with a 560 m² projection area, supplemented by lightweight construction walls. Participants engaged with spatial data either through screenbased presentations or via 1:1 mock-ups with projected behavioural data. Role-playing simulations provided context for interpreting spatial interactions, while survey results focused on evaluating participants’ understanding of behavioural evidence. Findings suggest that immersive evidence improves stakeholders’ ability to interpret behavioural data, with a medium effect size observed. This study highlights the potential of immersive evidence to bridge egocentric and allocentric spatial perspective to facilitate shared understanding of complex design challenges.