Balancing Enclosure and Openness: Effect of Tree Spatial Features on Safety and Restorative Perceptions in Bandung Urban Parks
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29244/jli.v18i2.63547Keywords:
enclosure, perceived restorativeness, perceived safety, tree density, tree arrangementAbstract
Many urban spaces, including green areas, often fail to provide safety or relaxation, especially when enclosure elements are present. This study investigates the impact of the spatial configuration of trees, influenced by their density, arrangement, and scale, on visitors’ perceptions of safety and restorativeness in urban parks. Data were collected by photographing selected parks, manipulating the photos into 12 different tree configurations, and distributing them in a questionnaire survey (N = 272). A one-way ANOVA was used to determine the significance of tree spatial features on perceived safety and restoration. The results reveal that tree configurations with high density, distant placement from pathways, and a medium-scale level foster the highest levels of perceived safety. In contrast, high-density and distant configurations with larger-scale trees maximize the sense of restoration. These findings highlight the key considerations for tree enclosures and management in urban parks in Bandung, aiming to provide safety and restorative potential during activities. This study contributes to the spatial composition of trees to achieve a balanced green enclosure, promoting prospect-refuge and restorative balance, which enhances visitors’ comfort and spatial experiences.
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