Urban Colorscape Design for Enhancing City Legibility and Aesthetics

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review paper

Authors

1 Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, School of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University

3 Associate Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University

10.30509/jscw.2025.167390.1207

Abstract

The aesthetics of urban landscapes have emerged as a significant concern in contemporary urban planning, with insufficient attention to this aspect contributing to a noticeable decline in the quality of life within cities. Among the various components that shape urban environments, color plays a critical yet underexplored role in enhancing the visual and perceptual quality of urban spaces. This study employs a descriptive-analytical approach to critically assess the application of color in urban design and its impact on the legibility and aesthetic appeal of cityscapes. Through an in-depth review of literature and analysis of global case studies, the research evaluates the strategic role of color in urban landscape design. The study synthesizes key criteria for urban color landscapes and revisits international experiences to appraise their relevance. The research concludes by presenting a strategic framework for urban color landscape design, based on Kaplan’s four dimensions—coherence, complexity, legibility, and mystery—offering guidelines aimed at improving the visual quality of cities.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Journal of Studies in Color World

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 February 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 05 October 2024
  • Revise Date: 10 February 2025
  • Accept Date: 15 February 2025

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