Increasing the Livability of Open Public Spaces during Nighttime: The Importance of Lighting in Waterfront Areas

MDPI 2022

The contemporary way of life influences the forms and time framework of outdoor activities in open public spaces, shifting their focus to nighttime usage. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the limits of existing outdoor lighting design standards and recommendations in terms of livability. As an exploratory case study, the Sava waterfront in New Belgrade, Serbia was chosen. The methodology consisted of theoretical research and specific analysis, which included: (1) mapping the spatial distribution of users during several periods of the day; (2) criteria and indicator network analysis of outdoor lighting quality, and (3) a survey with a questionnaire conducted among the users of the waterfront area. The results showed that lighting design can influence overall open public space usage during nighttime through its parameters. It can affect the spatial distribution of users and their sense of safety and comfort, as well as the duration, frequency, and manner of usage. This study could improve planning and design practices regarding outdoor lighting, enabling more active and inclusive usage of open public spaces, thus increasing the overall livability of spaces and their social sustainability.

urban outdoor lighting; artificial lighting quality; open public space usage; contemporary lifestyle; livability; nighttime outdoor activities; users’ perception; New Belgrade; Serbia; article

Sustainability
English

RSPST oai:raf.arh.bg.ac.rs:123456789/1339
2071-1050
https://raf.arh.bg.ac.rs/handle/123456789/1339
10.3390/su14106058
1405287756

UIVERSITY OF BELGRADE
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