Landscape Quality and User Satisfaction Evaluation: A Post-Occupancy Study of Selected Urban Parks in Lagos State
Abstract
Urban parks are essential elements of contemporary urban environments because they provide ecological, social, and recreational benefits to city residents. In highly urbanized metropolitan areas, access to well-designed green spaces improves public health, promotes social interaction, and enhances environmental sustainability. However, the success of these spaces depends on how effectively they respond to the needs and expectations of users after construction and occupation. This paper evaluates landscape quality and user satisfaction through a post-occupancy evaluation of two prominent urban parks in Lagos State, Nigeria: Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park and Dr. Oluyomi Abayomi Finnih Recreational Park. The research examines landscape performance indicators including accessibility, environmental comfort, safety, maintenance, aesthetics, and the availability of recreational facilities. A mixed-method approach involving site observation, questionnaire surveys, and photographic documentation was employed to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data regarding park usage and user perception (N=150). The study identifies how landscape elements influence behavioral patterns, frequency of use, and overall visitor satisfaction. Findings indicate that landscape quality significantly correlates with user satisfaction (r=0.74, p<0.01), with maintenance and safety emerging as the strongest predictors. JJT Park consistently outperformed Finnih Park across most indicators, particularly in aesthetics (mean difference=0.9, p<0.05) and cleanliness (mean difference=1.1, p<0.01). The research contributes to landscape architecture practice by providing recommendations that can improve the design, planning, and management of urban parks in Lagos. Ultimately, the research emphasizes the importance of post-occupancy evaluation as a tool for improving the performance and sustainability of public open spaces.
How to Cite This Article
Ademakinwa Olasunmbo O, Ihendinihu Chukwunma U, Rabiu Korede O, Ogunleke Samuel O, Uwakonye Obioha O (2026). Landscape Quality and User Satisfaction Evaluation: A Post-Occupancy Study of Selected Urban Parks in Lagos State . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Evolutionary Research (IJMER), 7(1), 154-159.