International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

Investigating the Effect of the Architectural Components of Metropolitan Soundscape on the Mental Well-being of Citizens

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mahdi Malekjani 1
Mohsen Kameli 1
Bahram Saleh Sedghpoor 2
Fereshte Navidi Majd 3
1 Department of Architecture, Sav.c., Islamic Azad University, Saveh, Iran
2 Department of Educational, Faculty of Humanities, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of Architecture, Islamshahr.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/ijumes.2026.2070336.1329
Abstract
As one of the dimensions of environmental perception, the soundscape of metropolises plays an important role in shaping the mental well-being of citizens. Accordingly, the present research was conducted with the aim of synthesizing and integrating the existing body of knowledge on the relationship between the architectural components of soundscape and citizens' mental well-being in the areas adjacent to the take-off and landing runways of Mehrabad Airport in the metropolis of Tehran city. The research was carried out with a qualitative approach, using the meta-synthesis method based on the seven-step model of Sandelowski and Barroso; reputable domestic and international sources were searched systematically, the quality of the studies was appraised with the CASP checklist and the reporting followed the ENTREQ principles, and after systematic screening forty selected studies were analyzed through open, axial and selective coding and organized into conceptual categories. The findings showed that the architectural components of soundscape can be classified into four main groups and sixteen indicators, which affect the various dimensions of mental well-being among these, while architectural design strategies and soundscape management play a key role in improving the quality of sound perception and the psychological and functional outcomes. Finally, a multilayered conceptual model was presented that explains the interaction between the architectural components, the quality of sound perception and the dimensions of mental well-being and the results of this research can provide a basis for urban design and architectural decision-making aimed at enhancing citizens' mental well-being.

Graphical Abstract

Investigating the Effect of the Architectural Components of Metropolitan Soundscape on the Mental Well-being of Citizens

Highlights

·         A meta-synthesis of 40 studies on soundscape and mental well-being.

·         Sixteen architectural indicators are grouped into four main components.

·         The physical-spatial component is the main causal driver of the chain.

·         Acoustic calm versus annoyance is the central node linking form to mind.

·         A four-layer model links urban form to well-being and daily performance.

Keywords
Architectural components
CASP checklist, ENTREQ principles, meta-synthesis
soundscape
well-being
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International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 July 2026

  • Receive Date 30 August 2025
  • Revise Date 16 July 2026
  • Accept Date 16 July 2026