RESEARCH

Urban Health: Applying Therapeutic Landscape Design. Methods, Design Strategies and New Scientific Approaches

The study found that well-designed therapeutic landscapes significantly reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall well-being. Implementing these designs in urban and healthcare settings can lead to better health outcomes, shorter hospital stays, and stronger community connections.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, General Population, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics, Community Gardens, Urban vs. Rural Settings, Public/Botanical Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management, Improved Physical Health, Faster Recovery Times, Longevity & Aging Well

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Growing Plants from Seed, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health

Access: Paid

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Summary

This paper explores how therapeutic landscape design can improve human health and well-being, particularly in urban environments. It highlights the importance of integrating natural elements such as trees, water, and wildlife into city planning to reduce stress and promote relaxation. The study discusses key concepts like biophilia (our natural connection to nature) and salutogenesis (a focus on health promotion rather than disease prevention). It also provides design principles, such as creating spaces that encourage exploration, incorporating sensory experiences, and ensuring accessibility for all individuals.

The research emphasizes the practical application of these principles in urban spaces, healthcare settings, and residential areas. It presents case studies demonstrating how well-designed green spaces can lower stress, enhance mood, and improve cognitive function. The findings suggest that therapeutic landscapes can contribute to public health by reducing hospital stays, preventing mental health disorders, and fostering community well-being.

Link

Souter-Brown, G. (2023). Urban Health: Applying Therapeutic Landscape Design. Methods, Design Strategies and New Scientific Approaches. In: Capolongo, S., Botta, M., Rebecchi, A. (eds) Therapeutic Landscape Design. Springer Briefs in Applied Sciences and Technology(). Springer, Cham

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