The Design of the Visual Field in Streets: The Visual Engineer's Contribution

Abstract

This paper extends the principle of the design of the visual field into the outdoor scene. The problems here are more difficult, mainly because streets are used for a great variety of activities with conflicting requirements; unless and until there is more effective segregation of them, effective design of the visual field is not possible. Current means of such segregation are briefly reviewed. The basis of design is outlined, and the problems associated with particular activities are discussed. It is stressed that good visual design must be in the hands of a single designer with powers to act, and that he must consider the whole perspective of the scene and the relation of the components to the whole. The most serious problems in present streets arise from their use as markets, especially at night from commercial lighting and signs, which seriously hinder road users from seeing the visual information which they need. Suggestions are made for practical means for restricting advertising signs in a way which will help drivers without seriously diminishing their advertising effectiveness. Signs for traffic are also discussed, and some suggestions for their improvement are made. Detailed solutions of problems of design of the outdoor visual field are not discussed.