| Title |
Development and Trends in Restorative Environment Research in Environmental Design |
| Authors |
장신웨(Zhang, Xin-Yue) ; 박수빈(Park, Soo-Been) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2025.41.6.67 |
| Keywords |
Recovery Environment; Research Trends; Bibliometric Method; VOSviewer; CiteSpace |
| Abstract |
This study investigates the development, research trends, and thematic evolution of restorative environment scholarship within the field of
environmental design. In light of increasing urbanization and the growing demand for spaces that enhance mental and physical well-being, a
comprehensive understanding of the field’s trajectory is essential. A bibliometric approach was employed to identify major research themes,
emerging trends, and prospective directions. A total of 358 relevant publications from 1998 to 2024 were retrieved from the Web of Science
(WoS) database. Analytical tools CiteSpace and VOSviewer were utilized to visualize knowledge structures, keyword clusters, and co-citation
networks. The analysis encompassed publication trends, keyword frequency, thematic clustering, and co-citation patterns to trace the intellectual
development of the field. Results indicate a marked increase in research activity, particularly in the post-COVID-19 period, reflecting
heightened global attention to psychological restoration. Keyword clustering revealed four principal themes: biophilic restoration, stress
recovery, utilization of natural environments, and psychological responses. Co-citation analysis underscored the interdisciplinary character of the
field, with influential studies focusing on biophilic design, urban green infrastructure, mechanisms of stress reduction, and the application of
virtual reality in restorative contexts. The findings suggest that future research should prioritize the enhancement of indoor restorative
environments, integration of biophilic design in therapeutic and occupational settings, and adoption of emerging technologies such as virtual
reality to simulate restorative experiences. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the field’s evolution and offers valuable insights
for scholars and practitioners in environmental design, psychology, and urban planning. |