THE IMPACT OF FUNDAMENTAL PLANTING DESIGN ON WELL-BEING

• Published in: Planning Malaysia
• Main Author: Akhir N.M.; Lop N.S.; Kamar I.F.M.; Aziz M.N.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Malaysian Institute Of Planners 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85211088479&doi=10.21837%2fpm.v22i34.1650&partnerID=40&md5=a6fb6444d21ccf088b14e81d0870dd6c

The planting design plays a pivotal role in shaping the campus landscape, blending scientific planning with artistic expression. The fundamental aspects of planting design, such as plant density, configuration, and properties, have a substantial impact on the daily lives of students. However, unattractive landscape planting on campus can diminish students' connection to nature. This study aims to investigate the interaction between planting design and students’ well-being, drawing from positive psychology principles. The objectives of the study involve identifying fundamental elements in planting scenes that impact students' perceptions and, subsequently, their well-being. Using a photo-based questionnaire, 319 students from diverse faculties rated 51 selected landscapes photographs. Data analysis revealed that arrangement emerged as the most crucial fundamental element influencing preferences of planting design. Interestingly, the naturalness of scenes uniquely correlated with engagement among respondents. These findings underscore the potential of visually appealing planting designs to boost students' happiness, satisfaction, and engagement in their educational environments. Future research should further explore how strategically planted greenery influences individuals' nature experiences and mental health, offering insights for nature-based interventions on campuses. © 2024 by MIP.