A Seasonal Study of the Spatial Quality of Cold Streets Based on Activity Portrait Indexes (APIs)

Summary

This study develops an Activity Portrait Index (API) framework to assess the seasonal quality of urban streets in Harbin, China, a city with extremely cold winters. Based on observations of 37 street segments, the method evaluates pedestrian activity levels, diversity of activities and the demographic diversity of street users across different seasons. The findings highlight how the qualities that support street activity change throughout the year: wind protection, thermal comfort and connections between indoor and outdoor spaces become particularly important in winter, while greenery, ventilation and opportunities for outdoor staying gain importance during warmer periods. The study provides an evidence-based approach for evaluating and designing streets that remain attractive, accessible and socially active throughout the year.

More from HIT

• Residents’ Seasonal Behavior Patterns and Spatial Preferences in Public Open Spaces of Severely Cold Regions: Evidence from Harbin, China · Research · Case study · 2025
• Thermal comfort range and influence factor of urban pedestrian streets in severe cold regions · Research · 2019