Theoretical Framework of Green and Blue Spaces Towards Enhancing Well-being for Individuals with Hoarding Disorder

Authors

  • Wan Mohammad Zaiem Wan Mahadi Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture & Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
  • Azlan Ariff Ali Ariff Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture & Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
  • Muhammad Firdaus Mohamed Rafie Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture & Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
  • Nor Alisya Afifi Ali Ariff Department of Psychology, Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, PO Box 10, Jalan Gombak, 50728 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • Nur Zawani Shafie Creative and Art Industries, Architecture and Planning Building, University of Auckland, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24191/bej.v22i1.1054

Keywords:

Hoarding Disorder, Green Space, Blue Space, Well-being, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Biophilic

Abstract

Hoarding disorder (HD) presents a unique set of challenges that call for novel therapeutic approaches. These approaches incorporate both psychological and environmental aspects, particularly with regard to the planning of green and blue spaces. The concept of green and blue spaces presents a significant opportunity in specific exploration for individuals who are struggling with HD. The aim of this study is to establish the ideation of environments that are conducive to the enhancement of therapeutic interventions, promotion of emotional recovery, and the encouragement of behavioural changes in individuals with HD. By drawing inspiration from the principles of biophilic design and attachment theory, this approach successfully combines natural elements, sensory engagement, and restorative architectural interventions in a harmonious blend. This research employs a two-stage methodology, which consists of conducting site-specific analyses of low-cost housing locations in Kuala Lumpur (PPR Beringin and PPR Desa Tun Razak) through field surveys, observations, and a review of the previously published literature. Attachment theory, cognitive behavioural therapy, and the principles of biophilic design are brought together to develop a theoretical framework. The results show the theoretical incorporation of green and blue spaces into residential settings explores the possibilities to improve psychological well-being. The capacity of the spaces to serve as potential restorative architectural design is brought to light by incorporating concepts from the fields of psychology, architecture, and nature. Future research recommends investigations on both the long-term effects of these therapeutic spaces

 

Author Biographies

Wan Mohammad Zaiem Wan Mahadi, Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture & Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

Wan Mohammad Zaeim Wan Mahadi obtained his Bachelor of Science in Architecture (Hons.) in 2020 at the Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA Seri Iskandar, Perak. He completed his Master of Architecture at the College of Built Environment (CBE), Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam, Selangor in 2024. He can be reached through his student email 2022294062@student.uitm.edu.my. His dissertation, titled Enhancing Well-Being for Individuals with Hoarding Disorder Through Green and Blue Spaces was submitted in January 2024 in fulfilment of the requirements for his degree of Master of Architecture.

Azlan Ariff Ali Ariff, Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture & Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

Azlan Ariff Ali Ariff is a lecturer at Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA in Puncak Alam and PhD candidate at Postgraduate Studies, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor. His research area specialises in green and sustainable architecture, green roof and building simulation. He has published similar topics in multiple publications such as Journal of Facilities Management, Malaysian Construction Research Journal (MCRJ), International Journal of Sustainable Construction Engineering and Technology, and Asian Journal of Environment-Behaviour Studies. He can be reached through his institution email at azlanariff@uitm.edu.my.

Muhammad Firdaus Mohamed Rafie, Studies of Architecture, School of Architecture & Interior Architecture, College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

Muhammad Firdaus Rafie is a lecturer at the College of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam. He holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and specialises in Computational Design, Urban Design and Architectural Visualisation. His academic and professional work focuses on integrating advanced computational techniques within architectural and urban contexts to enhance design processes and outcomes. His expertise lies in exploring the intersections of technology and design to address contemporary challenges in built environment. Firdaus is committed to fostering innovation and critical thinking in his students and peers. He can be reached at firdausrafie@uitm.edu.my for further academic collaboration and inquiries.

Nor Alisya Afifi Ali Ariff, Department of Psychology, Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, PO Box 10, Jalan Gombak, 50728 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Nor Alisya Afifi Ali Ariff is a postgraduate student with psychology background. She obtained her Bachelor of Human Sciences in Psychology (Hons.) in 2023 at the AbdulHamid A. AbuSulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia Gombak, Kuala Lumpur. She is now pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (2024) at the Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Bangi, Selangor. She can be reached through her student email P139022@siswa.ukm.edu.my.

Nur Zawani Shafie, Creative and Art Industries, Architecture and Planning Building, University of Auckland, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Nur Zawani Shafie currently pursuing her interest in architectural design theory at the University of Auckland, completing her Master of Architecture (Professional). Her academic endeavours complement her employment as the director of George & Vic Design Studio, where she oversees cutting-edge design initiatives with emphasis on quality and originality, contributing a special blend of scholarly and practical insights to her work. She previously co-authored a research paper entitled PVC Mesh as Adaptable Recycled Textile Waste towards Innovative Tropical Building Façade in Asian Journal of Environment-Behaviour Studies. She is reachable by her institution email at nsha737@aucklanduni.ac.nz or nzawani@georgevic.com.my for professional inquiries.

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Published

01-01-2025

How to Cite

Wan Mahadi, W. M. Z. ., Ali Ariff, A. A., Mohamed Rafie, M. F., Ali Ariff, N. A. A. ., & Shafie, N. Z. (2025). Theoretical Framework of Green and Blue Spaces Towards Enhancing Well-being for Individuals with Hoarding Disorder. Built Environment Journal, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.24191/bej.v22i1.1054

Issue

Vol. 22 No. 1 (2025): Built Environment Journal

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Articles

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