The Singapore National Parks has published Design Guidelines for Contemplative Landscapes, a translation of the findings from Effects of Landscapes on Brain Activity, a recently undertaken research by National Parks and the National University of Singapore.
The research study leveraged multidisciplinary knowledge in the fields of landscape architecture and neuroscience to investigate green spaces with an expert-based Contemplative Landscape Model instrument. This provided insights into how landscape features can bring positive mental well-being outcomes. The Contemplative Landscape Model (CLM) was conceptualized and operationalized in 2011, by Dr. Agnieszka Olszewska-Guizzo, as part of her doctoral research in Landscape Architecture and Urban Ecology.
The hope from National Parks is that the guidelines help landscape designers implement landscapes that enhance mental well-being and a more liveable Singapore. They feel that this will build upon we will infuse nature into our urbanscape with two objectives in mind: conserving nature and bringing the benefits of living amidst nature to everyone.
The book provides a background to the Contemplative Landscape Model, how to score landscapes with the Contemplative Landscape Model, Design Considerations and some case studies in Singapore that show the before and the intervention.
You can download the Design Guidelines for Contemplative Landscapes book from the National Parks website.
Image Credits: Dr. Agnieszka Olszewska-Guizzo and the National Parks Board