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Urban Design and Wellbeing.

A city’s citizens’ happiness and quality of life are profoundly affected by its urban design. Health, happiness, and social connection may all be enhanced in an urban setting that has been well-planned (Jennings & Bamkole, 2019). The flip side is that urban planning mistakes may harm people’s physical and emotional well-being due to pollution, overpopulation, and an absence of green areas. There is a growing demand for urban planners to build cities that improve people’s quality of life as the number of people living in cities keeps rising.

Good urban design prioritizes people’s access to nature to improve their wellbeing. A plethora of research has shown the psychological and physiological advantages of urban parks and other green areas. According to research (Dadvand & Nieuwenhuijsen, 2018), people who live in neighborhoods with more parks, trees, and greenery report less stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as greater concentration and attention. Public health benefits greatly from green space accessibility because it promotes physical exercise and social engagement (Dadvand & Nieuwenhuijsen, 2018). Designing cities with parks, communal gardens, green roofs, and tree-lined streets in mind improves people’s quality of life.

Figure 1: Central Park in New York City is one of the most iconic green open spaces in the world

Source: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Central-Park-in-New-York-City-is-one-of-the-most-iconic-green-open-spaces-in-the-world_fig2_282005400

In addition to parks and other open areas, intelligent city planning prioritizes gathering people together. Fighting feelings of isolation and loneliness may be as simple as creating more opportunities for individuals to congregate, get to know their neighbors, and participate in community activities. Thompson et al. (2023) emphasized the importance of public places such as plazas, parks, markets, and playgrounds in fostering social interaction and drawing people together. Vibrant neighborhood life is also encouraged by density and mixed-use zoning. Shops, restaurants, and local businesses that are readily walkable increase social capital because individuals are more likely to meet and engage with others. Positivity and contentment with life are enhanced by a feeling of belonging and local identity.

Intelligent urban design may affect people’s physical well-being by making it easier to walk and bike. Because services and businesses are closed, people will not need to drive as much to go about their day. High-connectivity, walkable street networks facilitate pedestrian mobility (Thompson et al., 2023). Bicycling is made safer and more convenient with the help of extensive bike lane networks. Pedestrian and bike-friendly cities promote healthy lifestyle choices, lessen the impact of traffic accidents, and reduce air pollution. The health and wellbeing of the population may be enhanced by expanding options for active transportation.

Well-planned urban planning may reduce traffic-related noise and air pollution and promote healthy mobility. Thompson et al. (2023) discovered that noise pollution in many cities makes sleeping difficult and increases stress. Strategic policies may reduce ambient noise by banning automobiles, slowing traffic, and isolating homes. Public and active transportation investments and tight car emission rules may improve air quality. Clean air reduces respiratory and heart problems in metropolitan populations. Well-planned cities are safer. Thoughtful city planning may reduce crime and increase safety. Nighttime public lighting reduces crime. Porches, street-facing windows, and other “eyes on the street” help secure a neighborhood. Good-view corridors make criminals visible. People’s quality of life increases when city inhabitants do not fear public transit or other harmful activities.

In conclusion, Better health, more happiness, and stronger social bonds are all possible outcomes of well-planned urban environments. Urban planning may improve people’s health via more green space, reduced pollution, mixed-use zoning, easily accessible public meeting places, pedestrian-friendly street networks, and crime prevention. Integrating wellness concerns into urban planning will continue to gain prominence as designers gaze into the future. Cities can become safe spaces where people flourish if we use innovative policies and think beyond the box.

References

1. Dadvand, P., & Nieuwenhuijsen, M. (2018). Green space and health. Integrating Human Health into Urban and Transport Planning, 409–423. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-74983-9_20

2. Jennings, V., & Bamkole, O. (2019). The relationship between social cohesion and urban green space: An avenue for health promotion. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(3), 452. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16030452

3. Thompson, S., Rahmat, H., Marshall, N., Steinmetz-Weiss, C., Bishop, K., Corkery, L., Park, M., & Tietz, C. (2023). Merging Smart and Healthy Cities to Support Community Wellbeing and Social Connection. Encyclopedia, 3(3), 1067–1084. https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia3030078

2 responses to “Urban Design and Wellbeing.”

  1. Hi, xiao. Your blog post provides a compelling argument for the positive impact of well-planned urban design on citizens’ well-being, happiness, and quality of life. While I appreciate the emphasis on the importance of green spaces, social interaction, and active transportation, I would like to offer a nuanced perspective by examining potential challenges and trade-offs associated with these urban planning strategies.
    Research by Kabisch et al. suggests that green spaces are often unevenly distributed, with marginalized communities having limited access. It is essential to ensure that urban planning efforts prioritize inclusivity and address potential socio-economic disparities in green space accessibility [1].
    Additionally, the emphasis on density and mixed-use zoning for vibrant neighborhood life and social engagement should be approached with caution. While these strategies can foster a sense of community, high-density living may also lead to issues of overcrowding and reduced privacy [2]. Striking a balance between promoting social interaction and maintaining individual well-being is crucial in urban planning.
    Moreover, the encouragement of walking and biking as a means of active transportation is commendable, but it might not be universally applicable. Research by Handy et al. suggests that the feasibility of walking and biking is influenced by factors such as climate, terrain, and distance [3]. In certain urban settings, relying solely on these modes of transportation may not be practical for all residents. Therefore, urban planners need to consider the local context and demographic factors when promoting active transportation initiatives.
    While your post rightly acknowledges the importance of reducing traffic-related noise and air pollution for a healthier urban environment, the complete elimination of automobiles might not be feasible for every city. Research by Bertolini et al. indicates that a balanced approach, incorporating sustainable transportation solutions and effective traffic management, may be more realistic and effective [4]. Blanket bans on automobiles could have economic implications and may not be suitable for all urban contexts.
    In conclusion, your emphasis on the positive outcomes of well-planned urban environments is valid and supported by research. However, it is crucial to consider potential challenges and trade-offs associated with these strategies to ensure a balanced and inclusive approach to urban planning. By addressing issues of equity, privacy, and practicality, cities can truly become safe and flourishing spaces for all citizens.

    References:
    [1]. Kabisch, N., van den Bosch, M., Lafortezza, R., & Strohbach, M. (2017). The health benefits of nature-based solutions to urbanization challenges for children and the elderly – A systematic review. Environmental Research, 159, 362-373.
    [2]. Shia, B. C. (2018). The Impact of High-Density Living Environment on Social Interaction and Privacy Protection. In International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(5), 1014.
    [3]. Handy, S., Cao, X., & Mokhtarian, P. (2002). Correlation or causality between the built environment and travel behavior? Evidence from Northern California. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, 7(2), 129-134.
    [4]. Bertolini, L., le Clercq, F., & Kapoen, L. (2003). Sustainable accessibility: A conceptual framework to integrate transport and land use plan-making. Two test-applications in the Netherlands and a reflection on the way forward. In Transport Policy, 10(3), 187-196.

    Reply

  2. This is an interesting post that provides us with an overview of Urban Design and Well-being, on how poorly planned urban design can influence on the well-being of citizens. I am particularly interested in key factors that harm people’s well-being in terms of physical and psychological status. You have mentioned that the lack of green space, overpopulation and pollution affects quality of life. As for the well-planned urban environment, you empha-sise creating green spaces for walking, community interaction and healthy environments.
    Availability of physical activity is one key factor of inhabitants’ health. The concept of contemporary cities is based on the comfortable and easy life for city dwellers, but it has led to physical inactivity. According to El Helou (2019), a deficit of activity components in cities has exacerbated overweight issues, especially obesity. For people with poor mental health, physical activity benefits mental well-being but they are prone to avoid doing activities indoors such as in the gym or sports centres than outside activity(Mitchell, 2013). Therefore, making healthy and attractive walkable spaces in cities seem to be necessary for physical activities.
    Creating walkable neighbourhoods by expanding sidewalk width with shade and connec-tion with diverse destinations lure people to gardens or parks increases the chances of physical activities for a number of residents living in cities (Grahn & Stigsdotter, 2010). Ur-ban green infrastructure can also contribute to psychological well-being which benefits from physical activity in open space. Mitchell (2013) states that doing physical activities in natural environments is more beneficial to reduce the risk of mental health than doing activ-ities in non-natural environments. It implies that the accessibility of green places has a pos-itive impact on physical, psychological and social well-being. Martens et al (2018 cited in Andreucci et al, 2019) support this idea that allotment gardening in roof gardens improves social connectedness addressing depression resulting from social isolation, especially for the elderly and enhances their quality of life via restorative experience, joy, inspiration and positive emotion.

    Reference lists
    Andreucci, M. B., Russo, A., & Olszewska-Guizzo, A. (2019). Designing urban green blue infrastructure for mental health and elderly wellbeing. Sustainability, 11(22), 6425
    El Helou, M. A. (2019). Shaping the city that decreases overweight and obesity through healthy built environment. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs, 3(2), 16-27.
    Grant. (2015). European Healthy City Network Phase V. Health Promotion International, 30(suppl 1), i54–i70. https://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/dav033
    Mitchell. (2013). Is physical activity in natural environments better for mental health than physical activity in other environments? Social Science & Medicine (1982), 91, 130–134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2012.04.012

    Reply

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  1. Hi, xiao. Your blog post provides a compelling argument for the positive impact of well-planned urban design on citizens’ well-being, happiness, and quality of life. While I appreciate the emphasis on the importance of green spaces, social interaction, and active transportation, I would like to offer a nuanced perspective by examining potential challenges and trade-offs associated with these urban planning strategies.
    Research by Kabisch et al. suggests that green spaces are often unevenly distributed, with marginalized communities having limited access. It is essential to ensure that urban planning efforts prioritize inclusivity and address potential socio-economic disparities in green space accessibility [1].
    Additionally, the emphasis on density and mixed-use zoning for vibrant neighborhood life and social engagement should be approached with caution. While these strategies can foster a sense of community, high-density living may also lead to issues of overcrowding and reduced privacy [2]. Striking a balance between promoting social interaction and maintaining individual well-being is crucial in urban planning.
    Moreover, the encouragement of walking and biking as a means of active transportation is commendable, but it might not be universally applicable. Research by Handy et al. suggests that the feasibility of walking and biking is influenced by factors such as climate, terrain, and distance [3]. In certain urban settings, relying solely on these modes of transportation may not be practical for all residents. Therefore, urban planners need to consider the local context and demographic factors when promoting active transportation initiatives.
    While your post rightly acknowledges the importance of reducing traffic-related noise and air pollution for a healthier urban environment, the complete elimination of automobiles might not be feasible for every city. Research by Bertolini et al. indicates that a balanced approach, incorporating sustainable transportation solutions and effective traffic management, may be more realistic and effective [4]. Blanket bans on automobiles could have economic implications and may not be suitable for all urban contexts.
    In conclusion, your emphasis on the positive outcomes of well-planned urban environments is valid and supported by research. However, it is crucial to consider potential challenges and trade-offs associated with these strategies to ensure a balanced and inclusive approach to urban planning. By addressing issues of equity, privacy, and practicality, cities can truly become safe and flourishing spaces for all citizens.

    References:
    [1]. Kabisch, N., van den Bosch, M., Lafortezza, R., & Strohbach, M. (2017). The health benefits of nature-based solutions to urbanization challenges for children and the elderly – A systematic review. Environmental Research, 159, 362-373.
    [2]. Shia, B. C. (2018). The Impact of High-Density Living Environment on Social Interaction and Privacy Protection. In International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(5), 1014.
    [3]. Handy, S., Cao, X., & Mokhtarian, P. (2002). Correlation or causality between the built environment and travel behavior? Evidence from Northern California. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, 7(2), 129-134.
    [4]. Bertolini, L., le Clercq, F., & Kapoen, L. (2003). Sustainable accessibility: A conceptual framework to integrate transport and land use plan-making. Two test-applications in the Netherlands and a reflection on the way forward. In Transport Policy, 10(3), 187-196.

    Reply

  2. This is an interesting post that provides us with an overview of Urban Design and Well-being, on how poorly planned urban design can influence on the well-being of citizens. I am particularly interested in key factors that harm people’s well-being in terms of physical and psychological status. You have mentioned that the lack of green space, overpopulation and pollution affects quality of life. As for the well-planned urban environment, you empha-sise creating green spaces for walking, community interaction and healthy environments.
    Availability of physical activity is one key factor of inhabitants’ health. The concept of contemporary cities is based on the comfortable and easy life for city dwellers, but it has led to physical inactivity. According to El Helou (2019), a deficit of activity components in cities has exacerbated overweight issues, especially obesity. For people with poor mental health, physical activity benefits mental well-being but they are prone to avoid doing activities indoors such as in the gym or sports centres than outside activity(Mitchell, 2013). Therefore, making healthy and attractive walkable spaces in cities seem to be necessary for physical activities.
    Creating walkable neighbourhoods by expanding sidewalk width with shade and connec-tion with diverse destinations lure people to gardens or parks increases the chances of physical activities for a number of residents living in cities (Grahn & Stigsdotter, 2010). Ur-ban green infrastructure can also contribute to psychological well-being which benefits from physical activity in open space. Mitchell (2013) states that doing physical activities in natural environments is more beneficial to reduce the risk of mental health than doing activ-ities in non-natural environments. It implies that the accessibility of green places has a pos-itive impact on physical, psychological and social well-being. Martens et al (2018 cited in Andreucci et al, 2019) support this idea that allotment gardening in roof gardens improves social connectedness addressing depression resulting from social isolation, especially for the elderly and enhances their quality of life via restorative experience, joy, inspiration and positive emotion.

    Reference lists
    Andreucci, M. B., Russo, A., & Olszewska-Guizzo, A. (2019). Designing urban green blue infrastructure for mental health and elderly wellbeing. Sustainability, 11(22), 6425
    El Helou, M. A. (2019). Shaping the city that decreases overweight and obesity through healthy built environment. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs, 3(2), 16-27.
    Grant. (2015). European Healthy City Network Phase V. Health Promotion International, 30(suppl 1), i54–i70. https://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/dav033
    Mitchell. (2013). Is physical activity in natural environments better for mental health than physical activity in other environments? Social Science & Medicine (1982), 91, 130–134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2012.04.012

    Reply
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