Videoecological assessment of the quality of the urban environment

Abstract

The article is devoted to video-ecological assessment of the quality of the urban environment using the Leningradsky district of Kaliningrad as an example. The introduction substantiates the relevance of the study, emphasizing the negative impact of homogeneous and aggressive visual fields on the psycho-emotional state of residents. Particular attention is paid to the uniqueness of Kaliningrad, which combines historical buildings, Soviet architecture and modern urban planning solutions, which creates visual heterogeneity. The purpose of the work is to identify zones with different levels of visual comfort for the development of measures to harmonize urban space. The Materials and Methods section describes the principles of videoecology, an interdisciplinary approach that analyzes the relationship between the visual environment and human reactions. Three groups of parameters were used for zoning the territory: architectural (number of storeys, color scheme, shape of objects), environmental (landscapes, water bodies) and territorial planning (building density, functional zoning). The model object — Leningradsky District — was chosen due to its multifunctionality, pedestrian accessibility and potential for renovation. The results showed that 29% of the territory is characterized by a favorable visual environment (historical objects, low-rise buildings, landscaped embankments), 48% — neutral (multi-storey buildings with moderate diversity of architecture), 23% — unfavorable (similar residential areas, industrial zones, wastelands). Using objects such as the Kaliningrad Historical and Art Museum and the Rosgarten residential complex as examples, the role of restoration and stylization in improving visual comfort is demonstrated. The discussion emphasizes the connection between the visual environment and tourist attractiveness. Video correction measures are proposed: facade solutions, landscaping, integration of historical elements into modern buildings. The need for clustering of tourist infrastructure with an emphasis on transit zones is noted. The conclusion confirms that the optimization of the visual environment requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the historical context, the functional purpose of the territories and modern urban trends.