International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

The effects of environmental, social, and functional components on healthcare spaces and their prioritization

Document Type : Case Study

Authors
1 Department of Architecture, Shahr Kurd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahr Kurd, Iran
2 Department of Architecture, Isfahan Art University, Isfahan, Iran
3 Department of Urban Planning, Isfahan Art University, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract
There is growing interest in using natural elements in healthcare environments to provide therapeutic benefits. However, it is not yet well understood how patients, their families, friends, and staff who spend time in these spaces utilize them and whether the intended benefits are experienced. This research evaluates visitor feedback regarding the incorporation of natural elements in Asgariyeh Hospital in Isfahan to gain insights into end-user experiences compared to existing literature on green spaces in medical settings and natural environments. The study method is descriptive and analytical, conducted through a survey with a questionnaire. To categorize the factors, the questionnaire questions were divided into three components: environmental, social, and functional. Questions were asked from patients and hospital staff as the target statistical population, alongside interviews with individuals. The results revealed the strongest relationship between the social factor and the environmental factor, followed by the significant correlation between the functional and environmental factors. Several themes related to reasons for access to the hospital’s green space and the benefits of natural elements were identified, including the advantages perceived by visitors, features of the calming aspects of nature, and their focus. Ultimately, it was found that the green spaces of Asgariyeh Hospital in Isfahan provide visitors with emotional tranquility through scenic appreciation, leisure opportunities, immersion in nature, restorative experiences, and outdoor air access. Visitor feedback indicates that the primary goal of therapeutic landscape design has been largely successful, providing insights into specific aspects of natural element utilization that are vital for enhancing visitor benefits.
Keywords

Volume 5, Issue 4 - Serial Number 4
Autumn 2024
Pages 278-287

  • Receive Date 18 January 2025
  • Revise Date 02 May 2025
  • Accept Date 28 December 2024