The Impact of Outdoor Lighting on Spatial Safety in Open Public Spaces: A Case Study of the Institute of Applied Arts

Abstract

Spatial safety represents a key element in the planning of university environments, particularly in outdoor areas that experience constant circulation of students and staff. This study addresses the challenges associated with spatial safety in selected open spaces within the Institute of Applied Arts, where inadequate lighting and narrow pedestrian routes contribute to a reduced sense of safety. With a student body of approximately 730 individuals, these spatial limitations hinder natural surveillance and elevate feelings of restriction among users. The objective of the research is to examine the impact of outdoor lighting on perceived spatial safety through a field-based investigation that included direct site observations and a structured questionnaire distributed to 50 female students. Results indicate that poor lighting distribution and restricted pathway dimensions significantly affect visibility and comfort, ultimately undermining users' sense of security. Respondents consistently highlighted that improving the quality and distribution of lighting, as well as widening key circulation paths, would lead to a safer and more accessible environment. The findings underscore the importance of integrating effective lighting technologies—such as LED fixtures and motion sensors—and optimizing spatial layout to support both safety and user mobility. The study concludes that design interventions focused on visibility and movement flow can play a vital role in creating flexible and secure outdoor spaces that meet the needs of growing student populations.