Work

Glow and flow: Urban lighting and the making of a vibrant waterfront in Lusail Marina, Qatar

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Urban lighting shapes emotional and behavioral responses in public spaces, influencing perceptions of safety, comfort, and social engagement. This study investigates the psychological and behavioral implications of urban lighting along the Marina District waterfront in Lusail City, Qatar. A mixed-methods approach, combining lighting inventory, behavioral mapping, and user perception surveys (N = 40), was applied to examine how lighting characteristics affect user experience. Results indicate that moderate brightness levels (10–15 lx) and warm color temperatures (3000–3500 K) enhance visual comfort and sociability, while balanced illumination improves safety and orientation. Variations in tone and intensity supported diverse behavioral patterns across active and resting zones. The findings correspond with the Sense of Belonging framework, linking accessibility, comfort, sociability, and attachment. Sustainable and adaptive lighting strategies aligned with the are proposed to guide evidence-based, human-centered design for waterfront environments in Gulf urban contexts.

Source: City and Environment Interactions

DOI: 10.1016/j.cacint.2025.100266

Authors: Nasal Nazar, Goze Bayram, Amina Al-Kandari

Institution: Qatar University

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Light on Environment and Health

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,500