The need for architectural and site planning development of the existing urban environment, including residential areas, is justified by the growth of living standards and the needs of the population, as well as the emergence of new trends in urban design. The purpose of this study is to formulate the principles of a comprehensive renovation and design methods for a comfortable living environment on the example of the existing residential development of Vladivostok, located on complex terrain. The study revealed: architectural and site planning shortcomings of mass typical development, features of its planning structure, the device of the road network, courtyards and public spaces, artistic inexpressiveness of the environment. It is established that the conditions of complex relief require an integrated approach to the renovation of the living environment. The main principles formulated in the study are: the creation of an affordable multifunctional infrastructure that meets the needs of various population groups; organization of safe and comfortable courtyards, pedestrian transit paths connecting different levels of the landscape; organization of cycling; creation of public spaces saturated with social activity; the organization of compact buildings with adjoining and public spaces free from car parking; increase in the total area of landscaping due to the exploited roofs, slopes and vertical landscaping of the walls; giving the building and landscaping a unique architectural appearance, taking into account modern trends in design; formation of a barrier-free environment in residential development on complex terrain and taking into account the needs of people with disabilities. Based on the developed principles, an experimental project proposal for the renovation of residential development, which takes into account the climate and topography of the city of Vladivostok, was completed.