Page 59 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 29
P. 59
The Environment
Integrate green spaces, gardens, and indoor gases. It acts as a simple but socially vital
plants to create a connection with nature. safety valve for ordinary men and women to
Views of natural landscapes and access to release some of the pressures of daily life in
outdoor areas can provide mental restoration the city-especially for those who’ve left rural
and reduce stress. areas for the promise of more and better-paid
Example: The Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) work in the city and find themselves living in
residential towers in Milan, Italy are covered treeless informal settlements or featureless
with trees and plants, providing residents with tower
access to nature even in an urban setting. The
design helps reduce stress and improves air 4. Enhance Sensory Experiences
quality, benefiting cognitive health. Use varied textures, colors, and lighting to
create stimulating environments. Ensure
2. Promote Walkability that indoor spaces have ample natural light
Design neighborhoods and communities with and good ventilation. Consider acoustics
pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Ensure to minimize noise pollution and enhance
that sidewalks are safe, well-maintained, auditory comfort.
and connected to key amenities. Incorporate 5. Support Mobility and Accessibility
wayfinding elements to support navigation Design environments that are accessible
and orientation, particularly for older adults. to people of all ages and abilities. Provide
Example: The High Line elevated linear park amenities such as benches, rest areas, and
in New York City, USA, is built on a former public transportation options to support
railway track and features a variety of plants mobility and independence.
and walking paths. It provides an accessible
green space for residents and visitors to enjoy Conclusion
nature and engage in physical activity. The influence of built environments on
cognitive engagement and health is an
3. Facilitate Social Interaction important consideration in urban planning
Create public spaces that encourage and architectural design. By creating spaces
community engagement. Design parks, plazas, that stimulate the senses, promote physical
and community centers that host regular social activity, foster social interaction, and enhance
events and activities. In residential settings, psychological well-being, we can support
incorporate communal areas where neighbors cognitive health. As our understanding of this
can interact and build relationships. relationship grows, it offers promising avenues
Example: Uhuru park in Nairobi, Kenya for innovative approaches to public health
serves as the lungs of over 4 million Nairobi and urban design, ultimately contributing
residents, shielding them from air pollution. to healthier, more sustainable and resilient
It’s also a green space that reduces ambient communities.
heat in cities, mitigates the effects of other
forms of pollution and absorbs greenhouse
ISSUE 29 | JULY 2024 59
