1 Introduction
Cultural ecosystem services (CES) are the non-material characteristics of ecosystems that impact the physical and mental states of humans
[1], directly or indirectly contributing to their health, welfare, and life quality enhancement
[2]. Currently, research on CES primarily focuses on urban wetlands
[3] [4], urban forests
[5] [6], urban parks
[7] [8], ecological parks
[9], and other types of natural green spaces in cities. In contrast, studies related to urban ecosystems are relatively scarce. Urban ecosystems, representing a unique amalgamation of all living organisms (including humans) and their environments within urban areas
[10], have garnered relatively less attention. These ecosystems, adapted, shaped, and modified by human activities from the natural environment
[11], are human-dominated environments: humans change and ultimately benefit from ecosystem services (ES)
[12] [13]. CES is at the core of urban ecosystems' functionality, with leisure tourism, cultural education, and spiritual fulfillment closely related to human life
[14] [15]. Despite human perception of landscape elements in urban ecosystems offering significant opportunities and pathways for realizing CES value, existing research predominantly focuses on the direct measurement of CES valuation upon human perceptions, neglecting the multifaceted influence of public perception and interactive landscape experiences on CES utilization. For instance, studies by Haoran Li et al.
[16] and Yi Zhang et al.
[17] used social media data like online reviews to obtain a direct public perception level of CES on urban riverfront green space and urban lake park, as similarly observed in the works of Yuqing Zhao et al.
[18] and Qianzi Jiang et al.
[19], despite they studied different user groups.
The "Landsenses Ecology, " proposed by ecologist Jingzhu Zhao, offers a holistic study approach that integrates landscape elements and ES. It is conceived with the objectives of fostering sustainable development and ecological principles. It undertakes a comprehensive examination of land use planning, construction, and management by considering natural elements, physical senses, psychological perceptions, socio-economic perspectives, process risk, and other factors
[20]. In its application, people imbue or encapsulate their visions into certain carriers via appropriate forms of expression, enabling such visions to be comprehended and appreciated both personally and collectively through engagement with the carriers. Such carriers can be a spectrum of elements, from physical forms (e.g., blocks, buildings, plants) to cultural expressions (e.g., paintings, calligraphy, poetry, novels, songs, symbols). The carriers possessing these attributes are termed "landsense, " and the entirety of the releasing process of the landsense is referred to as "landsense creation"
[21]. Thus, the pathways of representing landsense can be diverse, tangible, and abstract.
Since the proposal of Landsenses Ecology, Chinese scholars such as Lina Tang
[22], Rencai Dong
[23], and Xiaofang Liu
[24] have advanced its theoretical underpinnings and practical applications. Concurrently, international scholars such as Işıl Kaymaz
[25], Elvira Tarsitano
[26], and Nir Becker
[27] have delved into the realms of public perception, cognition, and preferences within urban public spaces, and evaluated people's willingness to pay for nature reserves maintenance through monetary methods. Xiaofang Liu et al. refined the external manifestations of landsense as "landsense elements"
[24], encompassing both natural and artificial ecological and environmental components that embody human visions and affect perceptions. Compared with conventional landscape elements, landsense elements emphasize visitors' perceptions and visionary expectations, as well as individuals' initiative in creating, expressing or attributing meaning to the landscape. Moreover, visions also serve a directive or normative function, influencing people's discourse and behaviors, and further promoting sustainable development. In this sense, landsense elements can integrate concerns for environment and social sustainability, beyond mere perceptual appreciation. Landsenses Ecology provides CES evaluation a new approach to enriching CES research paradigms
[28].
In Landsenses Ecology, exploratory research has focused on the interplay between the landsense and the hierarchy and supply-demand dynamics of ES
[29] [30]. However, practical or applied studies concentrate on urban green spaces, with little attention to historical blocks. Studies pertaining to landsense perception within historical blocks mostly explore visitors' touring experiences via different perceptual approaches, along with related evaluation methods and enhancement strategies
[31]~
[34]. In the studies related to CES in historical blocks, scholars have investigated the values of various services provided by landscape elements (e.g., street trees)
[35], historically or culturally significant buildings (e.g., museums)
[36] [37], and non-biological elements in historical areas (e.g., geographical environments)
[38]. However, the concepts or terms used in these studies often revolve around "perceptual experience" or "resource value, " lacking a cohesive and systematic framework encompassing both. Furthermore, these studies have not merged the concepts of CES with Landsenses Ecology. As an essential component of urban ecosystems, historical blocks harbor valuable tangible and intangible cultural wealth. The elements within these blocks showcase regional identities and landscape characteristics, manifesting the historical and cultural assets of the city
[39], making the historical blocks crucial areas for the provisioning of CES within urban ecosystems. Therefore, this study categorizes the landsense elements and CES types within historical blocks and delineates their interrelations through the prism of landsense creation. Besides, this paper proposes a practice framework of landsense design and a landsense evaluation indicator system for CES improvement. Employing the Three-Lanes and Seven-Alleys Block in Fuzhou, China, as a case study, the paper elaborates the constituents of the framework and the evaluation indicator system, and recommends the corresponding landsense creation strategies for CES enhancement of the study area.
2 Types and Interpretation of CES in Historical Blocks
The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, published in 2005, defined CES as non-material benefits humans derive from ecosystems, including spiritual satisfaction, cognitive development, reflection, recreation enjoyment, and aesthetic experiences
[40]. CES can be divided into various types with certain explanations according to specific studies
[18][41]. Building upon this globally recognized framework, the study organized and synthesized the literature regarding different types of CES in terms of experience, perception, resources or values
[31][32][35]~
[38][40][42]~
[44], resulting in the articulation of specific interpretations of each CES type in the context of historical blocks (Tab.1).
3 Practice Framework of Landsense Design in Historical Blocks
Landsense elements, as the manifestations of landsense, are classified and analyzed in practice according to different study objectives. In this study, landsense elements are defined as elements in natural or artificial environments that carry users' demands and visions, and can affect their perceptions
[24]. Drawing from the literature on perceptions of historical blocks
[31]~
[34] and overall-value assessments
[42] [45] [46], and aligning with the emphasis of Landsenses Ecology on physical and psychological perceptions
[20] [21], this study categorizes landscape environment of historical blocks into natural and humanistic. Accordingly, five main types of landsense elements and several sub-types are identified: for the natural environment, landsense elements include climate conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, wind speed) and environmental quality (e.g., atmospheric, visual, acoustic, olfactory, water and light environments); for the humanistic environment, landsense elements consist of path pattern (e.g., spatial fabric and structure, path interfaces), landscape elements (e.g., plant landscape, architectural landscape, waterscape), and cultural elements (e.g., cultural heritage, cultural facility, cultural economy).
Humans' spiritual and non-material needs for ecosystems and the characteristics of landsense elements provided by ecosystems play pivotal roles in the dynamic process, by which the CES are transferred from ecosystems to human systems
[47]. Fig.1 outlines the structure and process of landscape perception under the theories of Landsenses Ecology
[21][29], elucidating the affecting mechanism of landscape perception on CES via landsense creation methods. Typically, individuals engage with landscape carriers in the environment through sensory perception, subsequently interpreting the carriers in light of their varying cultural backgrounds. This process engenders either similar or divergent psychological perception, eliciting ephemeral or enduring responses, through which visitors can articulate their needs and cultivate visions for landscape carriers, thereby forging specific landsense elements. Landsense creation unfolds through three ways: utilizing existing carriers, transforming existing carriers, and building new carriers integrated with visions. Adhering to the eight principles of landsense creation—the bi-direction principle of vision manifestation, the vein-compliance principle of orientation and bearing, the multiscale principle of spatiotemporal combination, the systematicness principle of physical senses, the integrity principle of psychological perceptions, the interactivity principle of physical senses and psychological perceptions, the dissimilarity principle of different cultures, and the progressivity principle of the process
[21]—enables the deliberate design of landsense elements to augment, maintain, and improve CES in the environment.
Following the structure and process of landscape perception under the theories of Landsenses Ecology and focusing on the application in historical blocks, a landsense design practice framework for CES enhancement is proposed (Fig.2). This framework elaborates on the interconnections among various factors, including landsense designers and users, and extends the implications of CES to sustainable development and awareness, establishing a profound linkage between historical blocks' landsense elements with CES.
4 Construction of Landsense Evaluation Indicator System for Historical Blocks
The landsense evaluation indicator system developed in this study for historical blocks not only takes the block's redevelopment into account
[43], but also fulfills the following international principles for constructing indicator systems
[48] [49].
1) Principle of scientificity: the indicator system necessitates a foundation deeply rooted in the intrinsic characteristics and essence of landsense elements within the historical blocks by considering factors such as history, culture, and architecture and using scientific quantification and calculation methods to define and measure landsense elements.
2) Principle of guidance: the selection of indicators should appropriately reflect the landsense characteristics of the historical blocks, effectively guide and promote the protection, transformation, and management of the blocks; it should focus on the human-environment harmony in the blocks to better satisfy people's feelings and needs.
3) Principle of operability: the indicators should be observable or measurable, and corresponding metrics should be selected for data collection through scientific methods and techniques; the data should be collected from multiple sources and preferable in universality and statistics.
4) Principle of continuity: the data for each indicator should be temporally continuous (ideally collected annually) to monitor the dynamic changes of landsense elements in the historical blocks and provide a basis for establishing urban spatiotemporal data platforms.
5) Principle of applicability: the indicator system should serve as a tool for local governments to promote the improvement of landsense elements within historical blocks; therefore, indicator selection should align with local affairs and be integrated into spatial planning systems, such as urban spatial planning and historical block conservation planning.
The landsense evaluation indicator system for historical blocks proposed in this study, built upon the practice framework of landsense design, is shown in Tab.2.
5 Case Study: Landsense Creation Strategies for CES Enhancement in the Three-Lanes and Seven-Alleys Block, Fuzhou
5.1 Study Area
The Three-Lanes and Seven-Alleys Block (literally, three "Fangs" and seven "Xiangs"), located in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China, comprises a path system of three lanes, seven alleys, and one axial street (Fig.3), representing a unique historical urban fabric of the region. Among its rich tangible and intangible assets, the lane-alley pattern alongside over 200 historic buildings witnesses the highest historical and cultural value—the block, as a legacy originated from the Jin Dynasty (the 3rd century) and perfectly preserved through the later centuries to date, stands as a living fossil of the lane-alley system that is a rare example extant in Chinese cities
[50][51]. Apart from being a cluster of classical private gardens, the block is renowned for being the historical residences of eminent figures such as Zexu Lin, Baozhen Shen, Fu Yan, and Xin Bing, who made outstanding contributions to the progress of modern Chinese history, thereby infusing the area with profound cultural significance.
5.2 Status Quo Analysis
According to the landsense evaluation indicator system proposed in the paper, five aspects of the study area—climate condition, environmental quality, path pattern, landscape elements, and cultural elements—were examined to scrutinize the prevailing problems within the Three-Lanes Seven-Alleys Block
[44][52]~
[54] (Tab.3).
5.3 Landsense Creation Strategies
The study proposes a suite of landsense creation strategies for bolstering, maintaining, and improving different CES types within the block according to the primary and secondary indicators of the landsense evaluation indicator system. Notably, the evaluations, methods, and metric selection for the indicator system are designed to be adaptable, which ensure that the indicator system can be tailored to fit the uniqueness of different cases. Although this study does not make a customized alteration to the indicator system, further exploration will be expected in subsequent works.
5.3.1 Aesthetic Value: Enriching Natural and Cultural Landscapes
Landsense creation should prioritize visual perception to enhance aesthetic values by enriching the natural and cultural landscapes within the study area. This involves careful consideration of the architectural styles and the path pattern of the block, as well as appropriate planting design to increase community biodiversity and layers. Additionally, there should be a concerted effort to optimize the sightlines of the axial street and minimize obstructions to visitors' views
[55]. Light also plays a significant role in defining the spatial experience within the paths, where natural light can be harnessed to accentuate the unique features and historical architectural forms of the block, allowing visitors to feel the trace of time over the textures of the surfaces and thereby reconnecting with historical memories. Also, artificial lighting can be employed to create artistic vibes and atmospheric effects. In the expression of architectural forms, lighting design should enhance the quaint charm of the historical buildings within the block
[56].
5.3.2 Inspirational Value: Providing Sources and Clues for Afflatus and Encouragement
In urban renewal planning, it is crucial to foreground the inheritance of history and cultures, especially by showcasing Fuzhou's unique folk cultures and traditional craftsmanship. This can not only celebrate the block's rich historical heritage but also encourage afflatus and inspiration. Enhancing inspirational value can be achieved through multi-dimensional approaches of landsense creation. For the auditory sense, the diversity of natural sound sources can be enriched by improving the plant configuration and the arrangement of insect and bird facilities; for the boundary areas, soundscape design, such as introducing the calming sounds of water
[57] can significantly mask traffic noise from adjacent roads, thereby improving the overall quality of the acoustic environment within the area. Also, integrating the unique sounds of folk activities and traditional craftsmanship within the area can foster an inspirational atmosphere that stimulates artistic creativity.
Additionally, plants are a primary source of natural fragrances
[58]. Therefore, increasing the richness of native fragrant plants in Fuzhou, such as
Jasminum sambac and
Osmanthus fragrans, is an effective method to enhance visitors' olfactory experience. Selecting species with either no distinct odors or subtle scents odors but strong dust-retaining abilities in planting design can contribute to the improvement of air quality and the creation of a pleasant, inviting, and comfortable olfactory environment.
5.3.3 Sense of Place Identity: Exhibiting Regional Uniqueness and Features
The historical and cultural exhibition venues within the block, such as the Zhonghua Fuguan (Yan Chen's Former Residence) and the Maritime Silk Road Exhibition Hall (You's Residence), can present the regional historical and cultural uniqueness to residents and tourists, foster the sense of attachment and place identity within the historical block at a more profound dimension
[59]. Additionally, the sense of place identity can be promoted through enriching multi-dimensional landsense experiences. For visual perceptions, it is beneficial to integrate unique symbols (such as the traditional doors of distinctive buildings within the block
[60]) with local building materials and traditional construction techniques to construct a cohesive visual landscape system that stimulates curiosity and encourages exploration. Regarding the auditory sense, Fuzhou dialects and traditional operas telling the stories of notable figures from the historical block can be employed to enhance visitors' sense of place identity and deepen their appreciation for the humanistic resources of the study area. Moreover, the traditional cuisine of the block can also appeal to olfactory and gustatory perceptions.
5.3.4 Spiritual Value: Fulfilling Spiritual Needs
The spiritual essence of the historical block is manifested mainly in cultural activities, offerings, and products. Research indicates that the study area possesses a variety of unique cultural sounds, including reading aloud, poetry recitation, and folk activities
[51]. Nonetheless, with the tourism growth and increased human interference, human-generated noise has become a dominant sound source in the study area. Therefore, it is crucial to rediscover and amplify the distinctive historical and cultural sound sources within the block as a vital part of landsense creation through protection and management strategies. For instance, regular performances of local traditional theatrical arts (e.g., Fujian Opera, Chiyi) can be scheduled. Broadcasting promotional videos and recorded musical pieces can encourage visitors to explore different parts of the block and enhance its vitality
[61]. Such characteristic sounds can contribute to shaping vibrant soundscapes, especially in the areas within the block that are relatively quiet. In addition, diversified cultural merchandise and products themed around the rich heritage of the study area can be created, such as T-shirts, figurines, postcards, and bookmarks, offering a tangible connection to the locale. Emphasizing folk and ethnic cultural activities and products can deepen people's sense of engagement and experience and thereby meet their spiritual needs of local attachment, cementing the spiritual repository of the block.
5.3.5 Educational Value: Promoting Educational Activities
The educational significance of the historical block is embodied through its various material and spiritual assets. Since the Three-Lanes Seven-Alleys Block gathers many historical residences of renowned figures and a number of classical private gardens, introducing an interpretive system at landscape nodes to display relevant historical narratives and cultural connotations, so as to promote visitors' engagement and interactions with historical landscapes. The performance of emblematic cultural activities can not only be perceived visually but also convey cultural essence through auditory perceptions, offering insights into the historical soundscape of the study area by introducing sounds from folk cultural activities, craftsmanship, etc. Furthermore, regularly launching cultural events, including exhibitions of various forms and themes (maritime culture, familial legacies, etc.) can forge local educational tourism brand, delivering historical knowledge and elevating the educational services of the block.
5.3.6 Cultural Heritage Value: Endowing Historical Importance
The cultural landscapes of the block, both the entirety and specifics, enjoy invaluable heritage. Landsense creation can be carried out through visual and tactile aspects. Visually, the authenticity of the block's cultural landscapes is presented with diverse landscape elements and materials within the block, covering primary building materials (e.g., wood, stone), wall materials (e.g., gray brick, paint), and pavement materials (e.g., bluestone slabs, granite slabs, concrete). The landsense creation should honor the original and authentic materials of historical architecture and combine interpretative facilities that harmonize the style and atmosphere of the block, to invite visitors to engage with and appreciate the historical qualities of the block through visual and tactile design interventions. Newly added landscape materials should fit the aesthetic style of the block, which ideally selects the ones with moderately hard, warm and smooth textures with appropriately added uneven surfaces. These tactile qualities could attract visitors to touch and feel, fulfilling the needs of human comfort
[62].
5.3.7 Recreational and Ecotourism Value: Meeting Leisure and Recreational Desires
The visual and auditory environments are critical in increasing visitors' motivation for recreational activities and touring experiences
[63]. Visually, the preservation of the block should faithfully reflect the historical appearance, melding traditional and modern elements to portray the core historical culture of Fuzhou. Tactilely, creating a comfortable microclimate environment within the block can improve visitors' experience. Given Fuzhou's high summer temperatures, using landscape elements like plants and water bodies can regulate the humidity and improve the comfort of the study area. From a gustatory perspective, gourmet food events can be held regularly, during which popular local cuisines can be identified according to sales data, thereby developing potential food brands in the future. Such activities can attract more visitors to delve into the historical culture through brand marketing and promotion. Regarding the olfactory, some commercial projects (e.g., the Three-Lanes Seven-Alleys Fragrance Museum) can be introduced, exhibiting and retailing perfumes, aromatherapy products, or scented candles with the typical scents of the block, making it a multisensory destination—a new tourism identity.
6 Conclusions and Prospects
Leveraging theories of Landsenses Ecology, this study combines literature review and analyses to identify landsense elements and the types of CES in the block, and further explores their interconnections, constructing a landsense design framework for CES enhancement. This study proposes a landsense evaluation indicator system for historical blocks, providing an evaluation basis and criteria for relevant planning and design practices. With the case studying the Three-Lanes Seven-Alleys Block in Fuzhou, this research delineates landsense creation strategies to address the current challenges of the study area and qualitatively interprets the content of the landsense evaluation indicator system according to the practice framework. Although the landsense evaluation indicator system in this study draws from existing literature on historical blocks, it is envisaged to be adaptable to other spatial types, certainly by further investigations in the future.
The landsense creation of historical blocks for CES enhancement is a process integrating theory and practice, entailing a variety of factors, such as climatic environment, socio-economic conditions, cultural background, and user characteristics. In practice, landsense designers should focus on collecting and identifying basic information about the places, as well as dissecting and interpreting the information regarding users' perceptions. This is to simultaneously facilitate sustainable development of the historical block and create public spaces that contribute to human health and well-being.
Future studies can summarize quantifiable metrics based on the evaluation indicator system and the interrelations between CES and landsense elements explored in this study, and determine the weights of each indicator through, for instance, methods of expert scoring or entropy weight for the application of the evaluation indicator system. Moreover, the weights of the indicators may differ due to the varied attributes of the study areas. In future studies and applications, the evaluation indicator system should be adjusted according to the actual conditions of different cases, which would enhance the efficacy of landsense creation strategies in bolstering ES, providing the theoretical basis and data support for the planning and design of historical blocks.
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