Visual Impact of High-Rise Buildings on the Surrounding Environment: A Case Study in Northern Cyprus

Abstract

High-rise buildings represent modernity and economic power. Nevertheless, their abnormal scale and presence can
alter and define the identity of the city. On the island of Cyprus, with its unique history and modern aspirations, lowrise buildings are considered the predominant type of construction due to the country's social and cultural nature.
Therefore, the existence of those buildings puts the city at a disadvantage in having new high-rise buildings, which can
change the country's identity and culture. The construction of multiple high-rise buildings can be observed in different
parts of Nicosia. Through this study, we will focus on one particular building. We will analyse how that building affects
the skyline of the city, its visual impact, and shadow casting. The results showed a clear impact on the city's image and
visibility across different locations in the city. Due to the location of the building, the shadow impact is limited to a few
areas near the building.