Spatial spillover effects of road network topology on visual perception in urban villages

To promote high-quality urban development in Inner Mongolia, this study examined the public road network of Heping Village, Baotou. Space syntax theory and a spatial Durbin model were applied to quantify the topological structure and visual perception of the road network. The analysis focused on understanding how spatial organization shapes residents’ visual experiences. Results showed that: (1) Visual perception depends on hierarchical depth and accessibility. Hierarchical depth mainly governs visual attractiveness and navigational guidance. Accessibility controls the openness and recognizability of spaces. Visual extension showed no significant effect. Visual perception was influenced by both hierarchical depth and accessibility. (2) Structural optimization strategies—such as enhancing shallow connections, reinforcing hierarchical integration, and introducing transitional units—enhanced nodal visual dominance and street identity. These measures improved the recognizability of the neighborhood environment. (3) This study combined Space Syntax and Spatial Durbin Model to construct a “spatial structure–visual perception” framework. It identifies visual blind spots and structural barriers, offering scientific guidance for urban renewal. Although based on a single case and primarily applicable to small-scale compact neighborhoods, the methodological framework is replicable and extendable to other urban contexts.