Objective This study aims to explore the systematic application pathway of Scene Theory in the construction of Beijing’s Garden City. Addressing current deficiencies in Beijing’s green space development, such as insufficient integration of green perception and function, lack of distinctive character, low ecological efficiency of urban spaces, and inadequate scene operation capabilities, the research constructs a human-oriented Garden Scene construction framework for Beijing, grounded in Scene Theory and oriented towards planning practice. The core objectives are to facilitate the transformation of Beijing’s urban spaces from a singular "garden landscape" model, primarily focused on parks and green spaces, towards a comprehensive "garden scene" model that covers the entire urban area and integrates diverse functions. This transformation seeks to enhance citizens’ sense of well-being and belonging, ultimately achieving the high-quality development goal of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.
Methods The research employed an interdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from environmental psychology, sociology, ecology, urban planning, and landscape architecture. Scene Theory was utilized to analyze the spatial form and functional development of the Garden City. Firstly, the conceptual framework of Scene Theory, including its subjective and objective elements and their interrelationships, was systematically reviewed, and its semantic expressions were localized for the Chinese context. A literature review was conducted on the theory’s application and research in Garden City construction, focusing this study on three key directions: emphasizing subjective dimension value analysis, addressing both the overall requirements of garden scenes and the differentiated needs of specific scene types, and highlighting the synergistic role of green spaces in landscape character, social interaction, and ecological performance. Questionnaire surveys were used to decipher Beijing citizens’ subjective value orientations towards garden scenes. The Capital Garden Scene vision system was explored through the lenses of Authenticity, Expressiveness, and Belongingness. Applying the objective elements of Scene Theory—space, people, amenities, and urban activities—a research framework of "spatial context characterization—user demand identification—amenity system development—growth stage and activity integration" was proposed. This framework technically translated the garden scene vision, detailing the construction elements, characteristics, and directions for eight types of garden scenes. Finally, the Scene Theory framework and survey findings were innovatively synthesized into a tripartite planning practice system comprising "design guidelines—implementation pathways—policy support," forming the core of the Beijing Garden Scene Planning and Design Guidance system.
Results The research yielded the following key outcomes: 1. Value System Construction: Through the localized translation of Scene Theory’s subjective dimensions (Authenticity, Expressiveness, Belongingness) and aligning them with Beijing’s capital character, "Beijing flavor" culture, and North China regional characteristics, the core value vision of "Lush & Healthy, Diverse & Shared, Unique & Beautiful" for Beijing’s Garden Scenes was proposed. This vision emphasizes the organic integration of ecological foundations, functional vitality, and cultural identity. 2. Amenity Module Innovation: Based on the objective elements of Scene Theory, an innovative construction system encompassing 17 specialized amenity modules was developed. These include Canopy Coverage, Vertical Greening, Rooftop Greening, Microclimate Regulation, Defensive Landscapes, Habitat Gardens, Ground-Floor Activation, Boundary Integration, Layered Utilization, All-Hour Utilization, Urban Furniture, Convenience Services, Cultural Character, Public Art, Therapeutic Landscapes, and Nightscape Lighting. This system provides universal technical strategies for creating ecological, human-centered, and distinctive spaces. 3. Differentiated Strategies for Scene Types: Tailored core construction strategies and planning pathways were formulated, closely integrating the spatial background characteristics, green space development features, and human demand models (need patterns, behavioral patterns, multi-sensory experiences) of Beijing’s eight garden scene types (Garden Residential including compounds and Hutongs, Garden Factory, Garden Office, Garden Street including streets and waterfronts, Garden Transport Hub including stations and utilities, Garden Commercial District, Garden Public Service including schools, healthcare, and cultural/sports, Garden Village). These strategies integrate design guideline principles with specific scene requirements and embed them within existing initiatives like urban renewal. 4. Implementation and Policy System: Recognizing the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics of scenes (progressing through Environmental Improvement → Functional Implantation → Catalyst Activation stages), an eight-pronged policy support system was established. This system includes optimized green space ratio calculation, landscape substitution policies, flexible green space management, encouragement of functional mix, concession operation mechanisms, diversified financing, and multi-stakeholder collaboration platforms. These policies ensure the effective translation of planning concepts into implementation and management controls.
Conclusion Garden scene construction represents the refined implementation and effective operationalization of the Beijing Garden City planning concept at the urban spatial level. The process of scene building translates the macro concept of human-nature symbiosis into tangible, perceptible, and enjoyable micro-spatial experiences within citizens’ daily lives, placing a high priority on human-centered and place-based spatial creation. The research constructs a Beijing Garden Scene construction pathway framework guided by Scene Theory, led by core values, grounded in amenity modules, characterized by scene-specific strategies, and secured by implementation policies. This framework effectively addresses the current challenges of integrating function, ecology, and culture in green space development. It not only drives a profound transformation of urban spatial form from "garden landscape" to "garden scene" but also, by invigorating spatial vitality, strengthening cultural identity, and enhancing governance efficacy, promotes the upgrading of urban development and governance models. It provides significant theoretical support and a practical paradigm for enhancing citizens’ well-being and sense of belonging, and for achieving high-quality, sustainable development in a megacity.
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