Beyond functionality : exploring the benefits of restorative environments for youths in Malta

Abstract

As a man-made imposition, the built environment should aim to serve as a biologically sufficient space and a pleasurable visual-sensory experience. Recognising that only a portion of the built environment meets such aspirations demonstrates the extensive work that needs to be done by those involved in its design and planning. This dissertation sheds light on the local realities concerning youths’ mental health that tend to be overlooked during the design and planning of public space. As individuals interact with their physical setting daily, the role that surrounding environments have in worsening or alleviating a person’s mental health conditions become apparent. The study delves deeper into the benefits of restorative environments together with their specific characteristics that promote psychological restoration from cognitive overload. The research focuses on youth’s perspective of different settings based on experience, preference and feelings so as to better understand the relationship between mental well-being for youths and their environment. The research process developed into an interactive workshop incorporating a range of qualitative research techniques. Focus groups conducted an online survey, an informal discussion using a scenario method and a drawing exercise. An analysis and comparison of results illustrated a preference for natural environments, substantiating past research. In addition, the study revealed ways in which indoor spaces and local urban settings can be rethought so as to ensure that the needs, interests and experiences of youths within such environments can be enhanced given the limited access to natural environments and increased urbanisation. The need for specific environmental components, such as shading, sunlight and an affordance for leisure or physical activities emerged, that demonstrates how external factors shape a person's overall experience within a given environment, going beyond the mere physical attributes of a space. By understanding restorative environments, the several aspects that promote restoration and their ability to contribute to improved mental health, we can better translate the theories and studies revolving around such environments into design options.