Nature-related features and children’s well-being in post-disaster school design

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify the role of nature-related features in promoting well-being from the perspective of children as the users of post-disaster schools. It highlights the importance of connectedness to nature in design strategies for post-disaster school reconstruction.

Design/methodology/approach

The mixed-method study was conducted in three primary schools reconstructed after the earthquakes in Lombok (Indonesia) and Chiang Rai (Thailand) that integrated some nature-related elements in their design. The questionnaire survey explored the children’s satisfaction with the post-disaster school environment as an indication of well-being.

Findings

The findings suggest that priority in post-disaster school design strategies should incorporate nature-related design features that provide opportunities for children to be with friends and to play, to learn in comfortable and safe conditions, to interact with nature and to be in a quiet and relaxing place.

Originality/value

Most post-disaster reconstruction prioritizes the speed of construction rather than the spatial qualities that could help children deal with the disaster. This study provides evidence on the potential of nature-related design features to support the children’s well-being after the disaster.

Citation

Atmodiwirjo, P., Ghaziani, R., Wungpatcharapon, S., Djuwita, R. and Yatmo, Y.A. (2025), "Nature-related features and children’s well-being in post-disaster school design", International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 143-156. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJDRBE-12-2022-0132