Vertical gardens as a restorative tool in urban spaces of New Cairo

Abstract

Abstract Rapid urban growth and high density limited green areas in urban spaces of New Cairo. Growing literature propose vertical gardens to increase green areas with various potentials. The study is testing the hypothesis of vertical gardens, as a restorative tool in urban space. The aim is achieved through investigating the perceived restoration, and the consequential change of heart rate and blood pressure. Using a quasi-experiment; two groups of twenty participants each were exposed to a graphic simulation with and without vertical gardens in a certain context in New Cairo. Results assessed the effect on each group through SPSS and presented a comparative analysis between mean ratings of the restorative scale test, heart rate and blood pressure. Findings showed that the group exposed to vertical gardens was with higher restorative effect and lower stress levels. This proved that vertical gardens could enhance the quality of life through its restorative effect.