Landscape attributes as stimuli for cognitive restoration in the outdoor environment: A systematic review and thematic analysis

This systematic review aims to identify landscape attributes and characteristics of restorative environments that serve as stimuli for cognitive restoration in the outdoor environment. Studies focusing on the specific characteristics of landscape attributes that stimulate cognitive function remain ambiguous and under-prioritized in the design of restorative green spaces. The ROSES (Reporting Standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses) checklist was adapted to guide the authors on the appropriate protocol to conduct the review. This review presents seven themes of landscape attributes, namely Nature, Spatial Variations, Socio-cultural, Preserved Environment, Safety and Comfort, Vista, and Esthetics which characterize the cognitive restorative environment. The results indicate that nature-related attributes offer an essential ability to promote cognitive restoration in the outdoor environment. Further research is needed to observe the idyllic characteristics of both natural and built environments that are significantly restorative; and how the design of outdoor spaces could incorporate the cognitive aspect.