Residents' Evaluations of Mixed Land Use Taking Residential Environments and Convenience into Consideration

Abstract

This study examined psychological evaluation of mixed land use by residents considering residential environments and convenience. Residents in areas where the degree of land-use mix was low (Setagaya and Suginami Wards) and high (Taito and Sumida Wards) and in a suburban area (Kashiwa City) assessed scenarios in which the existence of land uses other than residences and the disturbance to surrounding environments (noise and passers-by) were varied. Examination of residents' responses through a conjoint analysis showed that noise during the night had the largest importance, twice as large as a monthly rent, and reduced psychological judgment of utility four times more than did an increase in rent by 20%. Shopping streets and convenience stores were positively evaluated, particularly by family residents, and the reduction of psychological utility was small in highly mixed areas. Implications for urban planning in the age of city shrinkage are discussed.