Informal green spaces in old residential communities: residents’ behaviors, perceptions, and design preferences

In high-density urban contexts, informal green spaces (IGS) embedded in neighborhood environments have become important complements to formal green‑space systems. However, existing studies primarily focus on macro-scale spatial distribution and ecological functions, while micro-scale empirical evidence linking behavioral responses, environmental perceptions, and spatial improvement preferences remains limited. This study uses Jianxingli Community in Qinhuangdao, China, as a case to explore relationships among IGS spatial conditions, residents’ behavioral responses, environmental perceptions, and design preferences under ambiguous property relations and limited formal management. It pays particular attention to interactions between residents and IGS. Field observations and questionnaire surveys (n = 296) were conducted, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and multiple regression models. Results show that IGS offer advantages in accessibility and daily convenience but exhibit deficiencies in cleanliness and perceived safety. Visitation frequency and activity types are significantly associated with environmental experience and sociocultural perception, which are further linked to residents’ preferences for spatial improvement. Differences in behavioral responses and improvement needs are observed across age groups and lengths of residence. The findings highlight the neighborhood‑level spatial value of IGS and provide empirical evidence for integrating IGS into community-scale green‑space planning and regeneration strategies.