The changing appearance of single-family house settlements in Slovenia: Comparative analysis of settlements in Ljubljana, Maribor, and Novo mesto

• Main Authors: Nika Cigoj, Davorin Gazvoda
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Urbanistični inštitut RS 2008-01-01
• Series: Urbani Izziv
• Subjects: single-family house settlements; organization and design of open space; street space; settlement appearance; over-all spatial appearance
• Online Access: http://urbani-izziv.uirs.si/Portals/uizziv/papers/urbani-izziv-en-2008-19-01-003.pdf

The design, representation, size, and organization of open spaces in residential areas of single-family houses has undergone significant change in the last forty years. In order to identify trends and changes in the construction of settlements of single-family houses, a comparative analysis of selected settlements in Ljubljana, Maribor, and Novo mesto was performed. It was determined that there has been a sharp reduction in open spaces, including planted and green areas, in these kinds of settlements. The shortage of land and the increased use of parcels with high density building projects have discouraged the development of planted areas along streets and the creation of gardens and common areas intended for socializing, playing, and recreation. The reduction of residential gardens and the increased elevation of buildings often results in the unsuitable physical appearance of new settlements as well as in the impoverished quality of life, an inevitable consequence of scarce greenery and common areas. Despite the fact that the use of open space is dependant on social conditions during various time periods, certain parameters that determine the quality of living space remain constant. Because of this, it has become increasingly urgent to dedicate thought to the planning of residential areas that gives a larger proportion of their area to open spaces and seeks a more appropriate balance between the market logic of urbanization and certain proscribed urban standards.