USER’S PERCEPTION ON THE EFFECT OF SOFT LANDSCAPING ELEMENTS IN BAYERO UNIVERSITY KANO’S SCHOOL CLINIC

ABSTRACT This study examines the perceptions of users regarding the role and impact of soft landscaping elements within the Bayero University, Kano (BUK) School Clinic. As urban healthcare environments increasingly emphasize user centered design, the integration of natural features such as trees, grass, shrubs, and flower beds collectively referred to as soft landscaping has become an essential component of therapeutic and functional landscapes. The primary aim of this research was to explore how these green elements influence users’ comfort, psychological well-being, and overall experience during clinic visits.The study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews and direct observations as its principal methods of data collection. A purposive sampling technique was used to select respondents mainly students who frequently visit the clinic. Thematic analysis was applied to interpret the qualitative data, allowing for the emergence of key themes that reflect users' awareness, emotional response, and practical suggestions concerning the landscape features present within the clinic environment. Findings reveal that most users are aware of soft landscaping elements and hold a positive perception of their impact. Respondents noted that these features contribute significantly to the aesthetic appeal and comfort of the clinic, offering a calming and stressreducing atmosphere, particularly for those experiencing illness or anxiety. The presence of trees, green lawns, and flowers was associated with feelings of peace, hope, and relaxation. However, the study also uncovered critical limitations, including poor maintenance, inadequate sitting areas, and an imbalance between hard and soft landscaping—where over 80% of the clinic landscape is hardscape. Observation also indicated that patients in the wards lack direct visual access to the landscaped areas, further limiting their potential benefits. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of soft landscaping in enhancing user experience and promoting healing within healthcare environments. It recommends strategic improvements such as better maintenance, increased vegetation, installation of shaded seating areas, and the incorporation of user-focused design principles to maximize the functional and psychological benefits of landscape elements. These insights are particularly valuable for campus planners, healthcare facility managers, and landscape architects aiming to foster healthier, more user-friendly clinic environments in institutional setting