A Case Study on Green Design Strategies to Enhance Mental Health in High-Rise Dwellings

The pandemic has profoundly impacted individuals’ physical and mental well-being, particularly those undergoing or recovering from medical treatment. This study explores how the height of residential buildings influences mental health outcomes, including stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The primary objective of the research is to examine how architecture, specifically housing height and the presence of natural landscape features such as green spaces, contributes to creating healing environments within living spaces. The study investigates the correlation between mental health issues and the availability of green spaces in residences designed for individuals in treatment. A comprehensive methodology involving a questionnaire survey and a detailed case study of patients' apartments was employed to gather data on various housing typologies. The findings reveal a significant relationship between mental health and the presence of green landscape elements, with respondents categorized into four housing types: low-rise, mid-rise, high-rise, and individual villas. Notably, a positive correlation exists between mental health outcomes and access to views of outdoor green spaces, especially in high-rise housing. The presence of indoor green spaces also positively influences mental health. The research highlights the potential of increasing green elements around buildings, particularly in higher-rise settings, to enhance mental well-being and provide healing effects in residential environments. Exploring the connection between green spaces and mental well-being offers valuable insights for architects and urban planners, encouraging the development of healthier, more restorative living environments in urban areas.