Applying 3D spatial metrics for landscape planning: Creating and measuring landscape scenarios by a point cloud-based approach

Abstract

The current planning and design process predominantly relies on experts' experiences or preferences, which is beneficial and straightforward but can be subjective and time-consuming. Although there are some quantitative assessment tools available to aid decision-makers in understanding the perceived quality of landscape scenarios, how to integrate them into the design thinking process to improve landscape design is challenging. This study presents a 3D digital model integrating the quantitative representation of visual quality into the design thinking process to improve urban landscapes' restorative potential. The model consists of generating landscape scenarios in a 3D environment, converting them into point clouds and voxelising them, quantitatively assessing the restorative potential, and interactively modifying landscape designs. To demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the model, we have applied it to improve the restorative potential of a park in Singapore. The results show that the model provides a clear assessment of landscape scenarios and identifies specific areas needing improvement. The significance of this study lies in an innovative approach to generating and assessing the landscape scenario, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of landscapes during the digital planning and design process.