Spatial Wayfinding in Urban Parks: The Role of Color and Geometric Shapes in Linear Park Design Prepared by: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sabah Mohammed Abd Musahib Introduction Urban parks and linear parks are essential components of contemporary urban design. Their role extends beyond providing green spaces and recreational areas to organizing user movement and facilitating access to different parts of a site. The integration of colors, geometric shapes, and vegetation creates a visual wayfinding system that helps visitors identify pathways and destinations intuitively, reducing the need for conventional written signage. First: Color-Based Spatial Wayfinding Colors play a fundamental role in guiding users through linear parks by creating visual contrasts between pathways, recreational areas, and planted spaces. * The Red Pathway: Red can be used to identify the main circulation route. Its strong contrast with the surrounding green landscape makes it visually prominent, guiding pedestrians and cyclists smoothly from one end of the park to the other. * Earth-Toned and Gray Pathways: Calm colors, such as beige and light gray, help distinguish secondary pathways and areas intended for leisurely walking, resting, and seating. These colors contribute to a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. * Flowering Planting Areas: Brightly colored flowers, particularly pink and seasonal varieties, act as visual landmarks. They attract visitors’ attention and guide them toward resting areas and seating spaces shaded by pergolas. Second: Spatial Wayfinding Through Geometric Shapes Geometric forms contribute to organizing movement and defining different spaces within linear parks. Lines and curves can be incorporated according to the intended function of each area. * Organic and Curved Lines: Curved pathways and organically shaped planting beds encourage slower movement and exploration. They also create a visually pleasant experience, allowing visitors to discover different spaces and seating areas naturally. * Circular and Straight Geometric Forms: Straight lines and circular arrangements around fountains and plazas help identify major gathering points, emphasizing them as clear destinations within the overall park design. Conclusion The integration of colors and geometric shapes in linear park design demonstrates the importance of combining visual aesthetics with spatial functionality. Clearly defined pathways, carefully planned color contrasts, and harmonious planting and geometric compositions contribute to organizing movement and facilitating access to different destinations. Through thoughtful design, linear parks can provide a comfortable user experience that accommodates rapid movement along main routes, leisurely walking along secondary pathways, and relaxation in seating and gathering areas. This approach enhances visitors’ spatial awareness and supports intuitive wayfinding while reducing reliance on conventional directional signage.