POSSIBILITIES FOR IMPROVING THE LANDSCAPE- ARCHITECTURAL SPACES Veselin Shahanov, Mariela Marinova-Shahanova, Veselin Rangelov University of Forestry, 10 St. Kliment Ohridski Blvd., 1797 Sofia, Bulgaria ABSTRACT The formation of a space is not only a matter of enclosing components of architectural or vegetative volumes. They represent only a visual feature. Too often the approach to a particular space is only in this regard, thus it is achieved a visual harmony and combination of dense matter and space. In those cases when a space is not filled with visitors or they only pass through it, it remains "empty". His only role remains purely visual. This article explores the possibilities of improving the spaces in landscape architecture in terms of their functions and usability. Examples are discussed in order to illustrate possibilities for improving the quality of space in landscape architecture. It was found that the usability of spaces depends on the degree of compliance with the characteristics and habits of particular visitors. Key words: space, functions, usability INTRODUCTION Essential for an open space is its visual characteristics - size, orientation proportions, etc. These physical parameters are always tied to human presence in the space. Using a place in one way or another by itself "creates" space. This is because for human beings creating space is a natural, subconscious act of self-positioning within their surroundings (Loidl, Bernard 2003, 46 p.). Therefore, on the one hand the spaces in landscape architecture can be perceived in purely visual level, on the other – they can be linked to the opportunities for individual use. In the first case the spaces are intended to form the vegetative park structure and to organize set of perspective views. In the second case they consider the specific recreation activities and their visual separation is not of primary importance. The study aims to clarify the main features of the landscape-architectural spaces regarding the ability to increase their usability. The main tasks to achieve the goal are: • analysis of landscape-architectural space and its features; • overview of contemporary practices, methods and principles for building full of values recreation areas; • connecting the characteristics of space with the parameters and habits of visitors. The method used for analysis of the problem is an overview of theoretical and practical aspects in the creation of recreation spaces in open environment. MATERIALS AND METHODS 1. Characteristics of landscape-architectural space There are four main features of the landscape-architectural space (Loidl, Bernard 2003, 49 p.): • The space is an area-unit (basis) with a three-dimensional frame (border).