Measuring landscape performance: Context, mechanisms, strategies, approaches, and theories : A thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Lincoln University

Abstract

This research explores various dimensions of Landscape Performance Evaluation (LPE), including its practice context, mechanism, evaluation strategies, approaches, and theories. This study firstly traces the evolution of the evaluation practices in the field of environmental design disciplines from its architectural roots to its integration into landscape architecture, and from its original form of Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) to LPE. The challenges arising from ambiguous interpretations and interdisciplinary differences in POE conceptualisation are identified. The study advocates for specificity and clarity in approaching the concept of POE. The research then extends its focus to the New Zealand environmental design and planning context, collecting and analysing a representative range of evaluation cases to unveil barriers and enablers in performance evaluation implementation. This study emphasises the essential role of effective regulating and supporting mechanisms in ensuring balanced resulting benefits relative to costs for all involved parties. Subsequently, the methodological terrain of LPE practices in New Zealand is mapped, proposing a categorising framework for the evaluation models and approaches, and revealing associations between funding sources, evaluator types, and evaluation outcomes. The first New Zealand-based Landscape Performance Evaluation (LPS) Case Study Investigation (CSI) consists of a part of this doctoral research. The CSI evaluation is explored, reflecting from the evaluators' perspectives, challenging the dichotomies in methodological categorisation, and advocating for a universal currency for benefit measurement. This research then introduces the hedonic model approach, quantifying intangible landscape benefits, and demonstrating the potential for using monetary value to measure the value of landscapes and thereby providing evidence for decision-making processes. An economic perspective is applied to conceptualise the current challenges in understanding and communicating landscape benefits, drawing parallels between the market for "lemons" and the landscape architecture industry. LPE emerges as a potent countermeasure to information asymmetry and a lack of information, potentially mitigating negative impacts on the industry. By encapsulating a multidimensional exploration that weaves together context, mechanisms, strategies, approaches, and theories of landscape performance evaluation, this research aims to guide future scholars, practitioners, and decision-makers in navigating LPE explorations, thereby contributing to the enhancement of the built environment and human well-being.