Urban Wilderness by Design

A Pattern-Based Framework Integrating Urban Nature and User Perception

Doctoral Thesis (2026)
Author(s)

Y. Chen (TU Delft - Landscape Architecture)

Contributor(s)

S. Nijhuis – Promotor (TU Delft - Landscape Architecture)

M.J. van Dorst – Promotor (TU Delft - Urban Studies)

Research Group
Landscape Architecture
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.71690/abe.2026.01
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Research Group
Landscape Architecture
ISBN (electronic)
978-94-6518-226-1
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Abstract

This thesis examines the practical integration of urban wilderness into spatial planning and design, aiming to establish actionable knowledge through a pattern language that supports ecologically driven and perceptually engaging urban environments. The thesis systematically explores four interconnected aspects: clarifying the conceptual foundations of urban wilderness in the urban planning and design discipline; investigating its spatial features and user perceptions; synthesizing design knowledge into structured wilderness design patterns; and validating their applicability through expert interviews and collaborative design experiments....