Reconnection: the Urban Oasis
S. Tesselaar (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
T. Offermans – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
P.H.M. Jennen – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
N.M.J.D. Tillie – Mentor (TU Delft - Landscape Architecture)
Luca Iuorio – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Environmental Technology and Design)
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Abstract
Human beings engage with architectural spaces both cognitively and emotionally, with research highlighting the significant impact of emotional experiences on health and well-being. As cities become increasingly urbanized, a notable absence of natural environments has raised concerns about a growing disconnection from nature. This gap manifests in both the quantity and quality of interactions with the natural world. The central challenge, then, is how to re-establish a meaningful connection to nature in urban settings.
This research aims to address two key objectives: first, to explore the environmental and emotional challenges posed by urbanization, and second, to develop a set of design principles and tools that empower architects and designers to create human-centered, emotionally resonant spaces.
In conclusion, emotional architecture offers a promising approach to mitigating the environmental and psychological impacts of urbanization. By engaging the senses, honoring local culture and climate, and integrating nature as a central design element, urban environments can be transformed into vibrant, restorative spaces that enhance both our well-being and our connection to the natural world creating an Urban Oais.