Abstract

The quality of outdoor spaces in residential communities affects the quality of life of residents as well as the level of comfort in a building. The study examined the characteristics and qualities of residential outdoor spaces (ROS) in Ilesa, Nigeria. The conceptual frame work showed the variables used in assessing the characteristics and qualities of ROS. The study was conducted in peripheral areas of Ilesa due to the high concentration of residential buildings with private ROS. A Multi-Stage sampling procedure was employed for the study. Out of the six areas located at the peripheral zone of Ilesa, Imo/Omi-Asoro and Oke-omiru/ Ibala areas, having 944 and 1373 buildings respectively, were randomly selected from each local government area (Ilesa East and West); the sample size of 231 buildings representing 10 percent of the entire buildingsin the study area were selected systematically. Within each of the selected buildings, one household head was sampled using questionnaire administration. Findings reveal that attributes such as privacy, comfort, accessibility, layout, and safety were rated highly across the study area. Quality Index (Q.I.) computed for the two areas and the aggregated area revealed index values of 3.85, 3.86, and 3.85 for Oke-omiru/ Ibala, Imo/Omi-Asoro, and Ilesa respectively, indicating that quality of ROS in the study area is good. The studies empirically established that there were few scenic and blue spaces as well as few green spaces within the ROS; less availability of these spaces are not encouraging despite their numerous benefits in outdoor arenas. The relevance of this study is predicated on the essence of qualitative outdoor space to individual well-being, as well as national development. This study also provided insight for redirection of national economy towards providing and improving necessary residential and urban infrastructures, as well as new policies.