Public space auditing of the 'LaVallee' district through the implementation of immersive virtual environments

The study delves into the untapped potential of Virtual Reality in urban planning and public space auditing. A prime focus is placed on whether VR has the capacity to replicate real-world environments to analyze and ameliorate the design of spaces for active mobility. Through utilizing a detailed 3D city model, the experiment immerses participants within a built environment that attempts to replicate urban settings to evaluate user perceptions on streetscape, public space quality, walkability and cyclability. Indicators including the Sustainable Urban Mobility Indicator (SUMI), Pedestrian Level of Service (PLOS) and Healthy Street Indicator are analyzed through calculations based off a structured questionnaire which attempts to highlight the extent of VR’s ability to mirror real user experiences and sensations. The research investigates the overall realism presented by VR simulations, addressing aspects such as building scale, urban detailing and lighting, which heavily contribute to the authenticity of built environments. Results indicate VR’s efficacy as a complementary tool in urban analysis, while identifying clear limitations and paths to improvement. Through the alignment of immersive experiences with real-world conditions, the VR apparatus emerges as a promising addition to pre-emptive urban space design and stakeholder participation, paving the way for more efficient audits and extensive explorations. The thesis bestows heavy significance on the integration of people-oriented perspectives in urban space design, placing VR at the helm of contributing to the development of more inclusive and human-centric environments.