The Effectiveness of street characteristics for creating a city image; a study of Galle road, Colombo

Abstract

The "Image" of the Asian city is associated with its street character, forms and patterns and it is distinctively different from its Western counterpart. The "Streets" play a dominant role in the formation of a city’s unique identity. With the changes taking place in the urban development the street characteristics are undergoing significant changes having impact on the city image and its uniqueness. This study explores the importance of street character for enhancing the city image. Segments of streets along Galle Road, Colombo are investigated to observe the street characteristics and street users’ perceptions on city image. Doorstep and street corner interviews were conducted among a random sample group. Findings revealed the most significant street characteristics such as width of the road, facade identity, visual exposure, functionality, boundary characteristics, physical form, activities, scale, visibility, height, unique shape, variation of setbacks, the sound, smell and greenery as important for enhancing and preserving the city Image