From Space to Well-Being: Understanding the Restorative Potential of Urban Riverfront Landscapes

Urban riverfronts, as integral components of the urban built environment, serve as essential blue–green infrastructure that offers restorative opportunities to residents in high-density areas. However, the mechanisms through which specific spatial qualities influence well-being outcomes remain underexplored. Guided by Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and Stress Recovery Theory (SRT), this study investigates the associations among spatial perception, perceived restorativeness, environmental sensitivity, and subjective well-being along the Yangtze Riverfront in Nanjing, China. A cross-sectional survey (N = 551) was conducted across six riverfront segments, using a 96-item questionnaire to assess five spatial perception dimensions, four restorativeness dimensions, and four well-being dimensions. Structural equation modeling (SEM) results indicate that spatial perception is positively associated with perceived restorativeness (β = 0.320, p < 0.001), with aesthetic perception demonstrating the strongest relative contribution (β = 0.265). Perceived restorativeness, in turn, significantly contributes to well-being (β = 0.540, p < 0.001), partially mediating the relationship between spatial perception and well-being (indirect effect (β = 0.173; 41.69% of total effect). Notably, environmental sensitivity moderated the spatial–restorative link (β = 0.799, p < 0.001), with restorative benefits being significantly amplified for individuals with higher sensitivity. These findings highlight aesthetics, accessibility, and perceived safety as priority targets for urban design. This study offers actionable insights for optimizing riverfront landscapes as vital urban health resources.