The visual evaluation of rural areas: A methodological approach for the spatial planning and color design of scattered second homes with an example in Hervás, Western Spain

Second home phenomenon represents an example of post-productive consumption in the countryside. In Spain, a positive stance had been initially taken towards second and holiday homes due to economic revitalization. Their scattered locations, however, are affecting to the poor aesthetic integration into the landscape. The aim of this work is to describe a new methodology, which can assess and predict the visual impact that a second home produce in a rural setting, specifically building siting and visual elements theme. This methodology is based on the visual impact evaluation taking into account a combination of techniques, namely multi-criteria spatial analysis and computer-aided photographic treatment. To achieve this evaluation, a previously established inventory of new residential buildings (formal and second homes) constructed in the case study area for the last ten years, was employed. Thus, this methodology can be used as a decision-making tool before constructing new buildings in specific areas. Accordingly, this research first explores to evaluate their suitability in order to optimally site second homes and then investigates their scene to be set, especially color, together with the analyzed suitability map. The final results of this work are the generation and validation of this methodology, which could be used as a practical tool for visual impact assessment. Ultimately, it can achieve the sustainable development of built environments.