Exploring pedestrian and cyclist preferences for shared space design: A video-based online survey

Abstract

Shared space design aims to establish an environment in which pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicles can interact and coexist harmoniously. To identify whether pedestrians and cyclists equally favour attributes that attract, engage, and protect them in the space, this paper explores their preferences for shared space design in configurations that emphasise the sense of place, integration, and informal segregation. In an online survey, 408 participants experienced videos of virtual environments with different designs to assess various attributes and their influence on the perception of the space and crossing behaviour. The results indicate that pedestrians and cyclists do favour similar attributes and space configurations. While both find motor vehicles undesirable, they hold a positive view of the central placement of design elements and protective barriers separating them from other road users. To design liveable environments that integrate and accommodate road users’ needs, this paper reiterates that it is crucial to systematically structure the space to deliver the concept of integration while reinforcing the place function and providing a sense of protection for vulnerable road users. Distinct design elements and their strategic placement, such as a centrally located fountain, can also further enhance the overall appeal of the design.