Assessment of the visual impact made on the landscape by new buildings: a methodology for site selection

Geographical information systems (GIS) are excellent tools for landscape modelling and three-dimensional analysis. They allow easy digitalisation of geographical information and coverage structure, as well as facilitating graphical representation. The aim of this research, using a new computer programme which makes use of GIS, was to analyse the location of rural constructions in order to improve their integration into the countryside. Logical routines were employed to study planning variables (physical, social, economic and legal) and the visual impact of buildings on the landscape. These routines can be used for analysis and decision-making in environmental administration, and are useful to planners and designers attempting to choose locations where new rural buildings will best integrate into the landscape. Finally, a public survey was conducted on visual impact of rural buildings, in order to endorse the proposed methodology.