01/2023
Mental health and urban development – upgrading of the Triester quarter in Vienna
What is the connection between urban design and mental health? What effect does urban design have on the mental health of residents? Which interventions can improve mental health?
Theresa Steiner
Diploma in Architecture
E260-1 – Städtebau und Entwerfen
Supervisor: Andreas Hofer
SteinerGroß
Urban environments encompass a wide range of factors that influence the well-being and mental health of residents. The design of urban spaces plays a significant role in shaping these effects. This thesis aims to explore the relationship between urban design and mental health, emphasising the relevance of considering mental well-being in the planning process.
Recent developments, particularly the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in February 2020, have highlighted the profound impact of the urban environment on its inhabitants. However, the inclusion of mental health considerations in urban planning processes has often been overlooked, with many planners unaware of the potential benefits.
To demonstrate the significance of this connection, this diploma thesis examines the specific relationship between urban design and mental health. The study also presents an appropriate design approach to illustrate how urban spaces can be tailored to positively impact mental well-being. To exemplify the integration of mental health considerations, existing developments in Austria, focusing on Vienna, are examined.
Furthermore, this thesis introduces a design concept located in Vienna’s 10th district, specifically the Triesterviertel neighbourhood. Through exemplary interventions, it demonstrates how an environment can be created to enhance mental health outcomes. The proposed design concept incorporates elements such as green spaces, activity, and social gathering areas to promote well-being and facilitate positive social interactions.
In conclusion, this thesis underscores the importance of recognising the connection between urban design and mental health, urging planners and policymakers to consider mental well-being as a crucial aspect of urban planning. By integrating mental health considerations into the design process, cities can foster environments that support the overall mental well-being of their residents, contributing to healthier and more liveable cities.
Urban environments encompass a wide range of factors that influence the well-being and mental health of residents. The design of urban spaces plays a significant role in shaping these effects. This thesis aims to explore the relationship between urban design and mental health, emphasising the relevance of considering mental well-being in the planning process.
Recent developments, particularly the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in February 2020, have highlighted the profound impact of the urban environment on its inhabitants. However, the inclusion of mental health considerations in urban planning processes has often been overlooked, with many planners unaware of the potential benefits.
To demonstrate the significance of this connection, this diploma thesis examines the specific relationship between urban design and mental health. The study also presents an appropriate design approach to illustrate how urban spaces can be tailored to positively impact mental well-being. To exemplify the integration of mental health considerations, existing developments in Austria, focusing on Vienna, are examined.
Furthermore, this thesis introduces a design concept located in Vienna’s 10th district, specifically the Triesterviertel neighbourhood. Through exemplary interventions, it demonstrates how an environment can be created to enhance mental health outcomes. The proposed design concept incorporates elements such as green spaces, activity, and social gathering areas to promote well-being and facilitate positive social interactions.
In conclusion, this thesis underscores the importance of recognising the connection between urban design and mental health, urging planners and policymakers to consider mental well-being as a crucial aspect of urban planning. By integrating mental health considerations into the design process, cities can foster environments that support the overall mental well-being of their residents, contributing to healthier and more liveable cities.
Diploma in Architecture
E260-1 – Städtebau und Entwerfen
Supervisor: Andreas Hofer
