Transitional Sensory-Scapes

Mental health issues are an increasing problem worldwide and have yet to be addressed in the design world within the context of urban city environments. The pace of urban densification and the environments it creates neglect the impacts on human health. Within the urban environment, daily routines become monotonous, involving a relentless bombardment of sensory stimuli. Sensory overloading factors, such as unpleasant odours, erratic movement, and chaotic noises, have the potential to trigger mental health issues or fear.

This thesis delves into the mental health implications stemming from the sensory-overloading urban landscape. Using a research-through-design methodology, this study addresses the importance of 'healing/therapeutic' landscape spaces in the urban environment conversation. By combining elements of landscape architecture and literature focused on sensory implications and mental health impacts, this thesis aims to create a public space that offers respite. This would enable individuals to temporarily disconnect from their overwhelming sensory surroundings as well as desensitise their senses.