eprintid: 4443
rev_number: 4
eprint_status: archive
userid: 1
dir: disk0/00/00/44/43
datestamp: 2024-01-26 09:02:34
lastmod: 2024-01-26 09:02:34
status_changed: 2024-01-26 09:02:34
type: thesis
metadata_visibility: show
sword_depositor: 1
creators_name: Maas, Marieke
creators_id: S4174925
creators_email: m.m.maas.1@student.rug.nl
title: Measuring Perceptual Spatial Quality in Virtual Environments: A Case for the Canal Revitalisation of Historic Gedempte Zuiderdiep, Groningen
ispublished: unpub
full_text_status: public
abstract: Employing a multi-method approach, the study combines qualitative and quantitative
analyses to explain how participants perceive and evaluate urban spaces represented in
3D virtual environments. This thesis focuses on five essential urban design qualities
derived from urban design theory —imageability, enclosure, human scale, transparency,
and complexity—each contributing to the perceived experience of streetscapes. Gedempte
Zuiderdiep, Groningen, with the city’s plans for canal revitalisation, is used as a case study
to generate streetscape designs depicting green and blue spaces. Using 3D models, this
discourse navigates the complexities of environmental perceptions, revealing how
cultural contexts intertwine with urban design elements, ultimately shaping the ways
individuals experience and interpret urban spaces.

Furthermore, this academic exploration extends beyond the realms of mere
observation, by providing quantifiable attributes for urban design implementation
through the use of Visual Assessment Surveys completed by participants. And, through
a qualitative lens, participants engaged in semi-structured focus groups describing their
perceptual insight. Using both quantitative and qualitative analysis, this research
suggests urban designers concentrate on developing spaces characterized by high-rated
design qualities, specifically emphasizing imageability and human scale. It underscores
the importance of comprehending the dynamic relationship between complexity,
enclosure, and transparency, as these factors significantly impact the overall perceptions
of safety and mobility, as well as the activities conducted in urban spaces. Moreover, this
thesis determined participants were able to effectively navigate 3D Virtual Environments
to evaluate the perceptual design qualities of four different 3D models, proposing further
research into the use of Virtual Reality in urban design communication. Finally, the
research aims to contribute valuable insights to the field of urban design by bridging the
gap between theoretical frameworks and practical Virtual Reality applications.
date: 2023
pages: 186
thesis_type: master
degree_programme: EIP
tutors_name: Margaritis, E.
tutors_organization: Fac. Ruimtelijke wetenschappen, Spatial Planning & Design
tutors_email: E.Margaritis@rug.nl
security: public
keywords_local: Urban design
keywords_local: perceptual design qualities
keywords_local: 3D virtual environments
keywords_local: canal revitalisation
language_iso: en
date_issued: 2024-01-16
citation:   Maas, Marieke  (2023) Measuring Perceptual Spatial Quality in Virtual Environments: A Case for the Canal Revitalisation of Historic Gedempte Zuiderdiep, Groningen.  Master thesis.   
document_url: https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/4443/1/Maas_Thesis_EIP2023.pdf