Landscapedia

                                                      THE EL-GOUNA EGYPT            AN UNSUCCESSFUL CASE STUDY IN PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING.                                       Fig 1: Columns of the plaza at El-gouna, Egypt.  El-Gouna in Egypt, designed as a private resort town, faces challenges in fostering public mental health and well-being through biophilic design, particularly due to its limited integration of the 'Nature in the space Theory'.  Key elements like immersive greenery, dynamic water features, and shaded, restorative spaces are under represented. While El Gouna boasts a picturesque environment, it's reliance on artificial landscapes and a commercial focus overshadows opportunities to create ge...

                             THE  MILLENNIUM PARK, ABUJA, NIGERIA .                                      AN UNSUCCESSFUL CASE STUDY IN PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING Fig 1: Millennium Park, Abuja, Nigeria. The Millennium park in Abuja has struggled to fully improve visitors' mental health and well-being due to it's limited integration of key aspects of the 'Nature in the space' theory of biophilic design. While the park features some greenery and open spaces, it lacks sensory-rich environments, diverse vegetation, and interactive natural elements essential for fostering mental rejuvenation. Additionally, inconsistent maintenance and insufficient accessibility diminish its restorative potential. Survey and observations indicate low engagement with the park's natural features, with many visitors citing insuffici...

                          THE CHEONGGYECHEON STREAM, SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA.  A SUCCESSFUL CASE STUDY IN IMPROVING PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING                         Fig 2: Image of the Cheonggycheon stream, in South Korea. The Cheonggycheon Stream in Seoul, South Korea, is a prime example of how integrating the 'Nature in the space' theory of biophilic design can enhance public mental health and well-being.  The revitalised urban stream, which was once a covered highway, incorporates several elements of biophilic design such as natural water features , greenery, and open spaces for community interaction. These elements provide a tranquil environment amidst the bustling city, reducing stress and improving mood for visitors. Key aspects of the 'Nature in the space' Theory integrated into the Cheonggyecheon include the water's calming presence, dynami...

                                                      GARDEN BY THE BAY         A SUCCESSFUL CASE STUDY IN IMPROVING PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. Fig 1: Garden by the Bay, Singapore. Garden by the Bay in Singapore has significantly improved visitor's mental health and well-being through the integration of biophilic design , particularly the 'Nature in the space' theory.  This theory emphasizes direct connections with nature, which the gardens achieved through features like the Super-tree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome. These spaces include lush vegetation, water elements , natural light, and sensory stimulation, offering restorative environments for visitors. Research highlights reduced stress and enhanced mood as primary benefits. A 2023 survey found that 83% of visitors reported feelings of relaxation and joy afte...

                                                                  THE HIGH LINE         A SUCCESSFUL CASE STUDY IN IMPROVING PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING .                                                    Fig 1: The High-line, New York City. The High-line in New York City is a notable example of biophilic design, integrating the 'Nature in the space' theory to enhance public mental health and well-being. This elevated park repurposes a former railway, incorporating native vegetation, water feature, and open views to reconnect visitors with nature in an urban setting. Key elements include abundant greenery, dynamic sight-lines, multi- sensory experiences such as rustlin...

                                                                   SARA ZEWDE                                   Fig 1: Sara Zewde, renowned Landscape Architect and Urbanist.      Sara Zewde is a renowned landscape architect, Urbanist, and founder of Studio Zewde, a design practice celebrated for its focus on cultural narratives, ecology , and community engagement. With a background in landscape architecture form Harvard Graduate School of Design and urban planning from MIT, Zewde's work emphasises integrating storytelling with the physical environment to honour local history and culture. Her projects are known for merging public art with ecological systems, fostering spaces that are both functional and deeply meaningful. ...

                                                                 DAVID ADJAYE Fig 1: David Adjaye, OBE renowned Ghanaian British Architect.  David Adjaye is a Ghanaian-British architect celebrated for his innovative designs that blend cultural, historical and contemporary influences . Born in 1966 in Tanzania , he is the founder of Adjaye's Associates , an architectural firm with a global presence. Adjaye's work spans various typologies, including museums, public spaces , and residential buildings. His most notable project, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C., reflects his ability to use architecture to tell stories and honour cultural heritage.    Adjaye's designs often incorporate local materials, environmental sustainability, and social relevance, addre...