The Restorative Effects of Multi-Sensory Open Space Design — The Example of Japanese Gardens

The primary health issues of modern urban lifestyle are stress-related and can lead to serious damage to both physical and mental wellbeing. In this context, the topic of restorative effects of natural environments and multi-sensory design of public open space is rather significant. This particular paper aims to expand the knowledge base regarding different relations between the characteristics of urban design, sensorial aspects of space and their therapeutic and healing effect. Focusing on users’ multiple sensory dimensions, sensory parks emphasize the stimulation of various senses, enhancing human communication with others, and positive emotional responses. Multi-sensory perception in a rehabilitation garden is closely related to the users’ sense of existence, emotions, and physiology and it could establish a wordless “communication”, which is beneficial to realize an extended emotional and existential awareness and increase the mental restorative effect accordingly. The methodology is based on the focused literature review regarding theoretical concepts such as Environmental psychology, Attention Restoration Theory, Place Attachment, Restorative gardens, etc. Also, this paper will present the case study analysis, including expert observation of good practice examples of Japanese gardens and open public space. Therefore, this paper will examine theories and practical examples that show the therapeutic impact that the multi-sensorial approach in design has. As a result, through the methodology mentioned above the specific set of spatial guidelines for successful urban design of sensory open space will be presented.