Analyzing the Influence of Physical Setting on Student Place Attachment in Minimarket-Cafes (Case Study: Family Mart Rungkut)

Abstract

The increasing use of third places as informal learning environments has led to the adaptation of retail spaces, such as minimarket-cafés, for academic activities among university students. This study examines the influence of physical setting aspects on place attachment at Family Mart Retail Store Rungkut, a space originally intended for grocery shopping but now widely used as an alternative study area. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining field observations, objective measurements, and questionnaire surveys. Data were analyzed using Spearman correlation tests in Jamovi 2.3.12 to investigate how physical settings support studying activities, identify the most influential features, and explore their role in shaping users’ sense of belonging. The findings indicate that the physical setting supports studying through an adequate spatial layout, ergonomic seating (chair height: 40 cm; table height: 75 cm), appropriate lighting (580 lux), and comfortable temperature conditions (23–24°C). Although ambient noise reached 60 dB(A), the dynamic soundscape—comprising music, conversations, and food preparation—was perceived as engaging rather than disruptive. Notably, soundscape exhibited the strongest correlation with place attachment (ρ = 0.73), followed by seating comfort and lighting. These findings suggest that well-designed physical environments can foster both comfort and social vibrancy, enhancing users’ emotional connection to space and supporting multifunctional third-place experiences.