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The green open space development model and associated use behaviors in dense urban settings: Lessons from Hong Kong and Singapore

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Abstract

Green open space is addressed as an important urban planning strategy to ameliorate the negative environmental impacts of high density. The article presents a comparative study of green open space development models and associated use behaviors between Hong Kong and Singapore. The two cities represent two distinct models: “Concrete Jungle” where green open spaces are separated from built-up areas and “Garden City” where green open spaces are integrated in buildings. The research argues that the two distinct urban development models are shaping two types of use behaviors. The detached green open space in Hong Kong engendered active visits with high intentions and sensations; the integrated green open spaces in Singapore, on the other hand, caused passive visits with low intentions and sensations. This research draws attention to the overwhelming greenery in urban development that might attenuate the therapeutic function for healing and restoration. The spatial arrangement of green space distribution should encourage people’s intentions and aspirations for an active visit with social or physical activities. The planning and design of open space should also optimize microclimate conditions (such as shading, cross-ventilation and thermal comfort) to facilitate longer stays.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the School of Design and Environment in NUS for granting the Academic Visitor Fellowship and providing the opportunity to collect raw data in Singapore. Thanks are also due to Griffith University International Travel Fellowship and New Researcher Grants. The authors also gratefully acknowledge the Research and Conference Grants from the University of Hong Kong that made the case studies and field trips possible. Special thanks to HKU Estates Office, NUS Office of Estate Development and other anonymous institutions who facilitated the research investigation in Hong Kong and Singapore. The authors also like to thank the anonymous reviewers who provided helpful advice to revise this article.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore

    Fei Xue & Stephen Lau

  2. School of Environment, Cities Research Institute, Griffith University, G39_3.40, Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia

    Zhonghua Gou

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  1. Fei Xue
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Correspondence to Zhonghua Gou.

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Xue, F., Gou, Z. & Lau, S. The green open space development model and associated use behaviors in dense urban settings: Lessons from Hong Kong and Singapore. Urban Des Int 22, 287–302 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41289-017-0049-5

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