Urban public space design as a driver of sustainable development and the formation of an environmental culture of city residents

Design plays an important role in ensuring the sustainable development of cities along with economic, social, and technological means. The article is devoted to the design of the city’s public space as an important tool for the formation of ecological culture and an ecological model of human behavior. The organic incorporation of natural objects into the urban environment promotes communication with nature, improves people’s physical and mental health. The layout of the landscape, the visual appearance and the layout of public spaces influence the behavior and aesthetic taste of citizens, their attitude to nature. The author systematizes the means and methods of design, the qualities and functions of design objects that harmonize the urban environment and form an ecological culture, motivating residents to an ecological lifestyle. The author analyzes the principles of landscape urbanism and participatory design, justifies the need for community participation in the planning process. Interdisciplinary research, the synergy of science, architecture and design, art and education are needed to improve the environmental situation in cities. The conclusions of the article confirm that investments in high—quality design of the territory are a strategic necessity for creating sustainable and healthy, socially prosperous cities of the future.