Designing for Mental Wellness: How Urban Landscape Architecture Eases Depression in Women

Authors:

Elnaz Abbasian, Mohsen Faizi, Asghar Mohammadmoradi

Published in: Bagh-e Nazar Journal, Vol. 17(89), Nov. 2020
DOI: 10.22034/BAGH.2020.209647.4370

Abstract

In today’s fast-paced urban life, symptoms of depression—especially in women—are rising at an alarming rate. Public gardens and green spaces, when thoughtfully designed, have the potential to become powerful healing environments. This study explores which components of landscape architecture have the greatest impact on reducing depressive symptoms in women. Using interviews with experts and structured analysis, the research reveals how elements like geometry, light, plant density, and water features can create mental health–enhancing spaces in cities like Tehran.

Introduction

Modern cities are not just spaces we live in—they’re environments that shape our mental and emotional well-being. With depression predicted to be the leading global disease burden by 2030, urban planning must consider mental health at its core. Gardens in Tehran—often used as public recreational areas—offer valuable clues about which design elements may foster healing. This research aims to identify and model those components.

Why Focus on Women?

• Statistically more vulnerable: Women experience depression 50–60% more than men.

• Intergenerational effects: Depression can be transferred biologically from mother to child.

• Environmental sensitivity: Women show higher sensory responses to environmental stimuli.

Key Environmental Stressors

• Poor lighting

• Loud or unpleasant sounds

• Lack of vegetation

• Dense or unreadable spatial layouts

• Absence of movement-stimulating elements

Methodology

• Interviews with 32 experts (psychologists, urban planners, botanists)

• Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test for statistical analysis

• Structured evaluation of 7 categories of environmental elements

• Expert review of visual and spatial questionnaires

Effective Landscape Architecture Components

ComponentImpact on Mental HealthGeometryCurved lines, symmetry, and readable paths promote calm and engagementLightMorning light and natural sunlight reduce stress and restore biological rhythmWaterFountains, gutters, and ponds create movement and encourage explorationVegetationFlowering trees, moderate-density greenery, and evergreen trees provide security and joySmellScented plants like lavender, saffron, and pine reduce heart rate and boost endorphinsColorWarm colors (especially yellow and green) improve spatial familiarity and moodSoundBirdsong and flowing water reduce anxiety and promote presence in spaceMaterialsNatural, soft materials (e.g., stone, wood, grass) encourage walking and relaxation

Design Recommendations

1. Light:

   • Use natural light where possible, especially in the morning

   • Install soft, diffused public lighting at a height of 4 meters

   • Avoid dazzling or overly intense artificial lighting

2. Plants:

   • Use flowering trees (willow, pine, lavender) and mid-height shrubs

   • Maintain moderate vegetation density (1.7–24%) for visual clarity

   • Vary plant height along pathways for depth and stimulation

3. Geometry:

   • Integrate curved paths and circular elements to promote a sense of happiness

   • Avoid sharp angles or overly complex layouts

   • 70% vegetation and 30% built space is optimal

4. Water Features:

   • Cover 1/3 of pathway areas with water features

   • Use circular basins, fountains, and gently flowing gutters

5. Edges & Flooring:

   • Soft, curved edges create a sense of safety

   • Flooring with yellow and green patterns supports concentration

   • Use organic materials that absorb sound and are pleasant underfoot

Conclusion

Healing the urban environment is not a metaphor—it's an urgent design responsibility. This study confirms that thoughtfully integrated landscape elements in Tehran’s public gardens can significantly reduce depression symptoms in women. Geometry and color stand out as the most influential elements, followed closely by light, sound, and vegetation. These insights pave the way for city planners, architects, and public health officials to reimagine urban spaces as active agents of mental well-being.

Suggested Citation

Abbasian, E., Faizi, M., & Mohammadmoradi, A. (2020). Landscape Architecture Factors for a Reduction of Depressive Symptoms in Women with an Interdisciplinary Point of View of Experts. Bagh-e Nazar, 17(89), 81–96. DOI: 10.22034/BAGH.2020.209647.4370

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