ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the role of biophilic elements in streetscapes. It reviews literature on how people interact with nature in various forms and settings. Researching the human-nature interaction for placemaking in planning, it specifically looked at the biophilic elements present in streetscapes, how these affect people and how these elements can be introduced in future plans. The study used 3M’s Visual Attention Software (VAS) eye-tracking emulation software to show where an observer may instinctually focus within streetscape samples from residential developments in Devens, Massachusetts. After analyzing how biophilic elements increase concentration and focus within locations along the streetscape, it draws conclusions for future planning and policy practitioners.
