Judging the Sizes of Urban Open Areas: Is Bigger Always Better?

Abstract

This study presents data concerning the importance of size in people's perceptions of urban open spaces. Size judgments and preference ratings for different areas were compared, and people's explanations of their ratings were examined. Neither perceived nor actual sizes were related to preferences. While spaciousness was desirable, this perceived quality was also unrelated to size. Theoretically, the coherence of a place and the opportunities and views it offers appear to have particular importance. In practical terms, for example, perceptions of spaciousness can be enhanced by constructing pathways within wooded areas, or by subdividing a setting into distinct regions. Through such methods highly preferred and seemingly spacious settings can be designed even on relatively small parcels of land.