Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate environmental characteristics of maternity rooms. The method of this study is a field survey on 8 samples of postpartum care centers in Seoul. The plan, colors, materials, furniture and environmental characteristics of maternity rooms are analyzed. The characteristics of maternity rooms environment were categorized into four items; comfort, privacy, communication and dwelling. The results are as follows: Western-style and rooming-separation system of maternity rooms are used. Maternity rooms are generally good for dwelling quality but insufficient for communication. There are a lack of supply to control a temperature Individually in maternity rooms. It demands to make the type of one-sided public space between maternity room and living room for privacy. All of the maternity rooms surveyed are furnished with TV, radio, and telephone but, to improve communication with visitors, it is recommended that more convenient supplies such as audio and video system, chairs, and table be equipped. There are needs for sky-light windows in maternity rooms. It is necessary to research more about the space of living room, nursing room and service area, and we need more study about baby, nurser and owner' spaces.