︎ Water features on campus
By Hui Zhu ︎
Hypothesis
The campus of Taubman has courtyards filled with greenery, but the only thing missing from this natural landscape is a water feature. In addition to the visual relaxation of the greenery, the auditory sensations such as the sound of water also contribute to the well-being of the students. I hypothesize that adding more water features to Taubman's campus will help relieve students' mental stress and improve their learning efficiency and concentration.
The campus of Taubman has courtyards filled with greenery, but the only thing missing from this natural landscape is a water feature. In addition to the visual relaxation of the greenery, the auditory sensations such as the sound of water also contribute to the well-being of the students. I hypothesize that adding more water features to Taubman's campus will help relieve students' mental stress and improve their learning efficiency and concentration.
- Why
Early evidence suggests that aquatic environments and riparian areas (waterscapes) positively impact mental and psychological health. These environments help by reducing environmental stress (e.g., cooling urban areas), encouraging physical activity and connection with nature, and restoring mental energy by easing anxiety and mental fatigue. Engaging with waterscapes like rivers, lakes, and wetlands allows people to spend more time in nature, participating in relaxing activities such as walking or socializing. These healing water features can boost psychological resilience and promote overall mental and spiritual well-being.(Zhang, X.2021, November 10)
- How
1. Adding a fountain element to the courtyard in the middle of the Taubman
2. Design water walls, vertical water features in some relatively quiet learning gathering areas
- What
1. Students can visually appreciate the fountains in the central courtyard of the Taubman, which can also have aquatic plants to increase biodiversity, and students can meet and socialize by the fountains.
2. Students can be more relaxed and focused in the study area designed with a water wall to communicate and learn.
- So What
Through the design of water walls and fountains, more students will be attracted to the outdoor courtyards as well as the relatively quiet study areas, which can enhance the interaction between students. The flow of water also freshens the air, creating a more comfortable environment for the campus. The sound of water can also help students and staff to relieve stress and become more relaxed and comfortable.
The Link Between Design and Outcomes
Firstly the introduction of water features will enhance the visual aesthetics of the campus and students and staff will be attracted without even realizing it. Secondly such a water feature design provides a mentally and physically restorative environment where students and staff can relax and rejuvenate. Finally the water feature will become a gathering place for everyone and increase social interaction on campus.
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Works Cited
1.Buildings. https://www.buildings.com/architecture/article/55040841/water-features-the-benefits-and-what-to-consider
2.Fountains.com. https://fountains.com/fountain-design-for-educational-spaces-schools-and-universities/?srsltid=AfmBOoqzfWFgilUUdkP5j-PVJ6oXQuFWHInrxMott-boITFhE0plJc2R
3.Zhang, X., Zhang, Y., Zhai, J., Wu, Y., & Mao, A. (2021, November 10). Waterscapes for promoting mental health in the general population. International journal of environmental research and public health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8618438/
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