This past week, Professor Worn presented the different theories of Therapeutic Landscapes. While walking through Millennium Park we were asked to look at the landscape design through the lens of a specific theory. I chose to observe with Roger Ulrich's Theory of Supportive Garden Design. Ulrich's theory includes the following principles:
Create opportunities for physical movement and exercise
Provide opportunities to make choices, seek privacy and experience a sense of control
Provide settings which encourage people to gather together and experience social support
Provide access to nature and other positive distractions
Some general concepts are:
Control (actual and perceived)
Social Support
Physical movement
Positive distraction
Visibility
Accessibility
Familiarity
Quiet
Comfort
Positive Art
My general experience was that Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park provide great opportunities for public gathering, physical activity, positive distractions, and choices. The different sections and activities within the park provide variety in experience and scale. I think this environment allows for quality opportunities for everyone. Because of its context in the heart of Downtown Chicago, the park struggles to contain the city noise which impacts the relaxation of the setting. The park also struggles to carve out smaller more intimate spaces. The park is usually heavily populated and there aren't many opportunities for private escape. One exception to this is The Lurie Garden which is quite successful in creating a relaxing, quiet, and beautiful space.
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