INCLUSIVITY AS A QUALITY CRITERION IN CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE DESIGN OF URBAN GREEN PUBLIC SPACES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2415-8151.2026.40.50Keywords:
inclusivity, landscape design, urban environment, green public spaces, quality of space, universal design, accessibility, multifunctionality, sensory inclusivity, user experience, spatial safety, social interaction, urban planning, sustainable developmentAbstract
This paper conceptualises inclusivity as a core quality criterion in contemporary landscape design of urban green public spaces. It examines how spatial-planning, functional programming, and sensory qualities of green areas shape accessibility, comfort, and user experience for diverse user groups, irrespective of age, physical abilities, or socio-demographic characteristics. The paper synthesises universal - and inclusive – design approaches in relation to creating high-quality urban environments that support equal access, safety, and multifunctional use. Purpose. To substantiate inclusivity as an integral quality criterion in the landscape design of urban green public spaces and to clarify its role in shaping comfortable and equitable urban environment. Methodology. The study draws on a critical review and synthesis of contemporary scholarship on inclusive and universal design, public-space quality assessment, and the contribution of green spaces to population well-being. The analysis applies methods of theoretical generalization, comparative analysis, and systematization of evaluation approaches. Results. A structured model of inclusivity indicators is proposed to assess the quality of urban green public spaces across ten interrelated criteria: legible navigation and orientation; accessible entrances and routes; adequate basic infrastructure; pedestrian and transport accessibility; sensory legibility and diversity; social open- ness and user diversity; perceived safety; spatial flexibility and adaptability; quality maintenance and management; and sensitivity to historical, social, and demographic context. Scientific novelty. The paper offers an operationalised set of criteria and a scoring scale for inclusivity as a design-oriented and expert diagnostic tool for assessing the quality of urban landscape environments. Practical relevance. The proposed model can be used to support design, redevelopment, and audit processes for urban green public spaces.
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