QUALITY OF OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS IN CONTEMPORARY URBAN HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS. The study of Riga

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Considering the essential human needs of contact with nature, outdoor activity, and social interaction, it is crucial to provide high-qualityoutdoor environments where these needscan be met. Moreover, this question of addressing these needs is emerging in the context of housing. Each year, in Riga, the capital city of Latvia, new residential developments are appearing. However, it is unclear whether these developments contribute to increased quality of life and help the city to achieve sustainability. This research focuses on the issues regarding outdoor-environment quality of 21st century housing developments in Riga and aimsto more deeply understand current trends and approaches. Theoretical studies, as well as empiric research methods, were used. The findings of the research indicate that in general, outdoor environmentsare mediocre, and several threats were identified. In order to achieve a higher quality of living conditions, the situation should be improved.

Keywords: outdoor environment, housing, residential development, contemporary architecture

Thematic clusters: 1. City and project Topic: Housing and housing project