The environmental psychology of inhabitants in Riyadh : perceived Sensory Dimensions in “Boulevard City”

Sammanfattning

Riyadh’s outdoor environment is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by rapid urban development and the challenges of a harsh desert climate. In response, new public spaces such as Boulevard City have emerged, aiming to promote physical activity, social interaction, and overall well-being. This study applies the Perceived Sensory Dimensions (PSDs) framework to evaluate how users experience this urban outdoor environment. It explores which sensory qualities are most strongly perceived and examines whether these perceptions vary across individual factors such as gender and age, as well as based on the language selected within the survey. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using a single, bilingual survey instrument available in both Arabic and English to gather quantitative and qualitative data from visitors. The survey captured user experiences related to PSDs as natural, cultural, open, Social, cohesive, diverse, sheltered and serene. The results provide a comprehensive assessment of the PSDs at Boulevard City, revealing correlations between the different dimensions and highlighting the sensory qualities that contribute most to users' experiences. Additionally, the study provides a descriptive analysis of the area, offering valuable insights that can inform future development and planning. These findings could be used to enhance the design and richness of outdoor spaces in "Boulevard City ", also contributing to the improvement of outdoor environments across the Riyadh city.