Mapping the Satisfaction Landscape: An Inquiry into the Alignment of 5D Theory Factors with Perceived Satisfaction - A Comparative Study of Community Environmental Appraisal and Household Life Contentment Evaluation in Suzhou, China

Life satisfaction serves as a crucial indicator for gauging urban spatial quality, with extensive research primarily focusing on the physical environment, policy transformations, and various vulnerable aspects. However, a significant gap exists in the literature concerning comparative studies integrating subjective life satisfaction with objective design intervention and spatial response mechanisms, particularly with households as the primary research subjects. In this study, Suzhou is selected as a study area, aiming to bridge the gap by employing a “5D” measurement model encompassing density, diversity, design, destination accessibility, and distance to transit. This research employs a multilevel ordinal response model and spatial analysis using multitude-data sources. The findings reveal that density, diversity, and distance demonstrate poor heterogeneity between the subjective and objective assessment results. In contrast, design and destination aspects show relatively higher consistency. Moreover, key household satisfaction influential factors were identified, including family economic status, sports facilities, educational services, and road design. The primary goal of this research is to provide actionable recommendations to inform policy-making and design intervention within the context of stock-based urban regeneration processes. To benefit academia and practice, this paper initiates a practical, precise, and people-oriented approach tailored to address the challenges posed by resource limitations.