Abstract: The object of the study is multilevel open urban spaces. The subject of this study is the general principles and design techniques of the organization of the subject–spatial environment of multilevel spaces. The article analyzes and systematizes a large project material devoted to new global trends in the organization of multi-level open public spaces. For the first time, a comprehensive overview of their conceptual varieties and compositional features is given. Design techniques aimed at the formation of multilevelness in the urban environment using landscape and design methods of shaping are revealed. A systematic analysis of the principles of the organization of multilevel open spaces in the unity of axiological, ecological, artistic, aesthetic and contextual approaches is carried out. The article identifies current trends in the organization of open multi–level urban spaces, defines them as separate fragments of a transportless urban environment, representing one or more tiers, at least one of which is above ground or water level, intended, as a rule, for recreation and walking. Among them there can be both monofunctional and multifunctional spaces, but they are all united by such qualities as recreational function, accessibility and openness. Typological types are proposed for the first time: multi-level pedestrian zones and additional levels of transport interchanges; tiered gardens and parks; above-water recreational spaces; mini-courtyards integrated into a multi-storey building; green roofs for various purposes; multi-level playgrounds. The conclusion is formulated that the design of multilevel open urban spaces is an actual trend of modern project culture and helps to solve various project and social tasks.

Abstract: The subject of this research is the urban space of Tolyatti – a large industrial center built during Soviet times. The article analyzes the Soviet and post-Soviet ideas of designing the urban environment. The object of this research is the building-adjacent territories of the most problem, standard residential areas that in a lesser extent correspond with the modern perception of human comfort in urban environment. The need for modernization and harmonization of courtyard spaces for increasing the quality of life of the urban population is demonstrated through the complex environmental approach, namely the engineering design. The authors conduct a correlational analysis of the contemporary design projects of creating the comfortable environment along with the idea resources laid in the project of an “ideal” Soviet industrial city. In the course of this research were determined the positive city-planning ideas of “city of the future” that allow efficiently develop the building-adjacent territories. The authors examine the problematic of the standard residential construction of Tolyatti and transformation of the functions of urban environment, as well as substantiate the role of courtyard as an important territory for increasing the quality of life in the modern industrial city. The concept of a contemporary courtyard space is presented.