| Title |
Aquarium Themed Cafes as Urban Healing Spaces A Study on Emotional Perception and Environmental Design |
| Authors |
왕스가(Wang, Si-Jia) ; 조은미(Zhao, Ling-Mei) ; 김면(Kim, Myun) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.14774/JKIID.2025.34.6.103 |
| Keywords |
Aquarium Theme Cafe; Emotional Awareness; Healing Space; Space Design; Multisensory Experience |
| Abstract |
As urbanization accelerates and daily rhythms intensify, psychological stress and emotional imbalance have become increasingly evident. While traditional therapies offer clinical benefits, rising concern for mental well-being has created demand for accessible and eco-friendly healing spaces. This study examines the “aquarium-themed cafe” as a new urban healing typology, exploring its spatial design strategies and psychological effects. Grounded in environmental psychology, emotional perception theory, and the biophilia hypothesis, the research proposes that emotional healing spaces should embody naturalness, sensory engagement, and social connection. Aquatic imagery, color and light variation, rhythmic water sounds, and the movement of fish create a soothing environment that promotes emotional resonance and relaxation. Meanwhile, the cafe’s warm atmosphere and social attributes transform it from a consumption site into a platform for emotional exchange and mental comfort. Through literature review, case comparison, field observation, user interviews, and surveys, six core healing design elements were identified: aquatic simulation, blue-space composition, animal observation, human?animal interaction, multifunctional layout, and greenery introduction. User feedback confirms their significant influence on comfort, stress relief, and sense of well-being. This study enriches the theoretical understanding of emotional healing in commercial space design and suggests new practical possibilities. As an integrated environment of aesthetic, functional, and psychological value, the aquarium-themed cafe illustrates a shift toward emotionally considerate and health-oriented design. Ultimately, it offers a strategy model based on environmental psychology and user experience optimization, providing theoretical and practical guidance for future urban mental health design. |