MAPUA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

School of Architecture, Industrial Design, and Built Environment

Assignment 2 – Architectural Essay

AR135-1 ARCHITECTURAL ESSAYS AND REVIEWS

BY

2018138113
December 2, 2023

The study explores the efficacy of horticulture in resort architecture, focusing on user-engaged
sustainability. The study examines the opportunities and approaches associated with incorporating
these horticultural elements as a fundamental architectural design component in the design process
of wellness and environmental sustainability.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 USER-ENGAGED SUSTAINABILITY: AN EVALUATION OF THE THERAPEUTIC

EFFICACY OF HORTICULTURAL ELEMENTS IN SUSTAINABLE RESORT
ARCHITECTURE .................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Body .......................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2.1 Sustainable Resort Architecture................................................................................... 1

1.2.2 User-Engaged Sustainability........................................................................................ 1

1.2.3 Horticulture .................................................................................................................. 2

1.2.4 Design Strategies for User-Engaged Sustainability ..................................................... 2

1.3 Conclusion ................................................................................................................................. 2

User-Engaged Sustainability: An Evaluation of the Therapeutic Efficacy of Horticultural Elements in
Sustainable Resort Architecture
2018138113 12/2/2023

TITLE: USER-ENGAGED SUSTAINABILITY: AN EVALUATION OF

THE THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY OF HORTICULTURAL ELEMENTS
IN SUSTAINABLE RESORT ARCHITECTURE
1.1 Introduction

Environmental sustainability has recently become a necessary consideration in terms of

architecture and tourism. Hence, sustainable architecture significantly poses a profound effect, as it
guarantees that the advantages surpass the negatives, thus transforming tourism into a positive force
(Hynes, 2023). The study evaluates the therapeutic efficacy of horticultural elements in sustainable
resort architecture; it explores how these factors can minimize the adverse environmental effects of
resorts and improve and maximize the end-user's well-being.

1.2 Body

1.2.1 Sustainable Resort Architecture

Sustainable resort architecture is an innovative approach to architecture that incorporates nature

into the building environment. Sometimes, users lose the connection between humans and nature;
therefore, this approach aims to increase that connection through sustainability. It includes designing
strategies that prioritize materials with low environmental impact, are adaptable and renewable, and
produce minimal waste. It also proposes minimal use of high-energy technology and adapts to energy-
efficient strategies to create harmonious and comfortable living conditions for both the user and nature.
Per Gupta & Chakraborty (2021), the requirement for energy-efficient building designs grows in light
of the rising energy costs and the impending energy crisis.

1.2.2 User-Engaged Sustainability

User-engaged design is an iterative design process that aims to meet users by learning from
users. The designing process includes the users in various design techniques, which are done to create
highly accessible and usable spaces. The fundamentals of user-engaged sustainability are to gather data
from the users to incorporate their insights into sustainable initiatives. By doing so, users would be
immersed in the environment of the facility, which would later build more harmony or connection
between them.

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User-Engaged Sustainability: An Evaluation of the Therapeutic Efficacy of Horticultural Elements in
Sustainable Resort Architecture
2018138113 12/2/2023

1.2.3 Horticulture

The integration of horticultural elements such as gardens, green roofs, and landscaped areas
can provide a visually appealing and therapeutic environment. These elements offer a range of benefits
that can enhance the experience of individuals and can be an asset in many settings. By understanding
greeneries and their role in the environment, plazas, parks, and other spaces included in a resort setting
can be designed for healthier living. Horticulture uses living plants and the natural environment to
provide evaluation therapy and relaxation within a medical framework. According to Zawadzińska and
Salachna (2019), this approach has been found to benefit mental health, reduce stress, and promote
overall well-being. By leveraging the natural world, horticulture represents a unique opportunity for
healthcare providers to offer their users a holistic, practical, sustainable relaxation approach.

1.2.4 Design Strategies for User-Engaged Sustainability

To optimize the potential of horticulture in resort architecture, design strategies such as

incorporating the native landscape, green roofs, interactive landscaping, and sustainable building
materials are advised to create a sense of place and harmony between the user and the environment. By
incorporating these elements, it enables a resort to build a sustainable learning environment that
engages users in the journey towards a better future.

1.3 Conclusion

Taking everything into account, utilizing horticulture in resort architecture focusing on user-
engaged sustainability, proposes a holistic approach to the user's well-being and the environment. By
building spaces embracing elements of nature and sustainable resources, resorts can foster well-being
and rejuvenation while encouraging pro-environmental practices among the users. Integrating
horticultural elements in resort design is a compelling strategy to promote sustainability and enhance
users' therapeutic experiences. The use of green spaces and plant life in resort settings has positively
impacted people's physical and mental well-being. Therefore, incorporating these elements in resorts
can provide users with a unique and valuable experience while ensuring long-term environmental
sustainability. These practices align with the growing demand for sustainable tourism and can help
businesses differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Therefore, embracing user-engaged
sustainability through horticultural elements is a strategic approach to enhance the user experience
while promoting sustainable business practices.

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User-Engaged Sustainability: An Evaluation of the Therapeutic Efficacy of Horticultural Elements in
Sustainable Resort Architecture
2018138113 12/2/2023

References

Gupta, J., & Chakraborty, M. (2021). Energy-Efficient Building. Sustainable Fuel Technologies
Handbook.

Hynes, E. (2023). Why is sustainable tourism important? Pina Travels. https://pinatravels.org/why-is-

sustainable-tourism-
important/#:~:text=Sustainable%20tourism%20is%20important%20because,this%20planet%
20special%20are%20protected

Zawadzińska, A., & Salachna, P. (2019). Horticultural therapy in the landscape architecture:
Therapeutic garden. World Scientific News, 300-307.