Nature has directly influenced the evolution of human settlements, culture, knowledge systems, social structure and services. Culture in turn has shaped and reinterpreted nature based on their physical perceptions into cities. In the realm of architecture, urban design and planning, culture has been acknowledged as a fundamental driver for sustainable development. This paper addresses the gap between the practical spatial planning and the citizens’ perspectives of spaces, i.e. the cultural values. The paper aims to spatially assess cultural values in urban nature, i.e. urban green open spaces thereby enhancing the interrelationships between eco-centric and anthropocentric approaches to development. Through a mixed methodology that spans disciplinary boundaries, the research identifies 220 indicators as variables affecting the cultural value of public open space with green qualities. Indicators, which were selected from various papers on cultural ecosystem services, perception mapping, sense of place, place identity related to urban green and open spaces, were analysed using Principal Component Analyses (PCAs). Results reveal key factors and variables in formulating a cultural value assessment index that can promote human-centric developments and minimize the negative impacts of development on socio-economic and environmental facets of urban green open spaces. The index framework developed offers an empirical grounding for employing comprehensive cultural plans that promote sustainable development, aligning with UNESCO’s Agenda 21 for Culture, Culture for Development, which is imperative with the increasing consequences of globalization, urbanization and population growth.