Crafting an urban restorative model from bibliometric analysis of neuro-urbanism literature

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PurposeNeuro-urbanism is an emerging field focused on addressing global urban challenges by examining the impact of urban living on stress levels and mental well-being. The restorative environment approach has been widely applied to measure stress and mental health outcomes. Although there is a recognised relationship between neuro-urbanism and restorative environments, further exploration of literature is needed. This paper aims to propose a conceptual urban restorative model that leverages neuro-urbanism to explore the potential of various urban space typologies and their associated urban design qualities in fostering restorative environments.Design/methodology/approachThis review article utilised VOSviewer to conduct a bibliometric analysis of data from Scopus and PubMed, focusing on neuro-urbanism and restorative environments. Our study explored the intersection of neuroscience and urbanism in designing environments that enhance mental well-being by mapping keyword co-occurrences and analysing citation networks. It identified research clusters, emerging trends and literature gaps, offering a detailed overview of how these fields intersect and influence each other.FindingsOur findings have revealed significant links between these fields, paving the way for the proposed restorative model. This model, derived from the literature, outlines the types of restorative environments, managing domains and theories integrating intangible and tangible urban design qualities using features and variables.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has limitations, as the proposed urban restorative model was developed using data from a literature review of databases such as Scopus and PubMed without testing its application in a real-world case study. Nevertheless, the urban restorative model provides valuable insights that can support urban designers, planners and public health organisations in evaluating restorative environments, which may enhance mental well-being and reduce stress in urban settings.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the broader understanding of how urban design can influence mental well-being and provides actionable keys for improving the quality of life in urban settings.