Developing a theory of tranquility in urban public open spaces for future designs

Abstract

Urban tranquil areas can optimize the urban environment and enhance social well-being; however, a theoretical framework for such areas has yet to be constructed. To establish a clear definition of urban tranquil areas and explore the constituent elements and their interrelationships within the theory of tranquility, this study examines the subjective understanding of urban tranquil areas based on data from interviews with 50 respondents. We generated a theoretical framework for the sense of tranquility in urban public open spaces and defined urban tranquil areas. The five categories of the theoretical framework included tranquility needs, context, perceptions, experiences, and outcomes, which were categorized under sensory and mental perception levels. “Perceptions” was the core category, comprising environmental and spatial perceptions. Positive perceptions of tranquility were easily affected by visuospatial perceptions, while acoustic environmental perceptions easily influenced negative perceptions. Finally, we identified three dimensions of “experiences”: a state of relaxation, a state of calmness and pleasantness, and a state of immersion and concentration. The state of mental relaxation was affected mainly by acoustic environmental perceptions, whereas the other two states were affected mainly by visuospatial perceptions. The results provide a reference for future theoretical and practical work in the design of urban tranquil areas to improve the quality of urban habitats.