Evaluating the Spatial Quality of Beyn Ol-Harameyn, a Historical -Tourism Space in Shiraz, Iran: Urban Design Strategies for Recovering Place Identity

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Student in urban planning , School of Urban Planning, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 Ph.D. Candidate in urban planning, Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

3 Graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Department of Urban Planning, Larestan Higher education complex, Lar, Iran

Abstract

The present study aims to examine the spatial quality of the historical-touristic area of Beyn Ol-haramein in Shiraz, with the goal of developing urban design strategies for restoring its place identity. This area, with a rich history of religious, cultural, and historical values, has faced identity erosion and a decline in spatial quality due to uncontrolled investments and excessive destruction. The research method is descriptive-analytical and based on quantitative data. In this context, various indicators are evaluated in terms of physical, semantic, and socio - cultural dimensions to prioritize issues and propose solutions for improving spatial quality and preserving the place identity of the area. Data collection was carried out through library studies and questionnaires, using random sampling. To assess the indicators, 40 urban experts and university professors were consulted, and for data analysis, the Swara and Friedman tests were employed. The results show that among the indicators examined, accessibility, sewage disposal, and aesthetic values play the most significant roles in enhancing the spatial quality and place identity of the area. From a theoretical perspective, this study provides a deeper understanding of the concept of place identity and clarifies its role in urban design. Practically, it can serve as a model for urban planning focused on improving the quality and identity of historical spaces. Ultimately, the research suggests that a coordinated approach to improving the physical-environmental dimensions — particularly their associated indicators — can not only aid in restoring the place identity of Beyn Ol- haramein but also increase citizen satisfaction and attract tourists to the area. Attention to this approach in urban policy - making and planning for the preservation of the identity and vitality of historical spaces is essential. Accordingly, Accordingly, solutions within the urban design framework are proposed to improve this area from an urban design perspective.

Highlights

  • A profound understanding of the place identity of destroyed historical spaces was presented.
  • The assessment results of components of spatial quality identify the urban design priorities for enhancing the place identity of Beyn Ol-Harameyn site.
  • The SWARA method and Friedman test have been employed to identify the priorities, and proposed the urban design strategies across physical, semantic, and socio-cultural dimensions.
  • Accessibility and wastewater management from the physical-environmental dimension, and aesthetic values from the semantic dimension of place identity, are recognized as the action priorities.

Keywords

References

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Iranian Urban Design Studies
Volume 1, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
September 2024
Pages 161-184

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History

  • Receive Date: 20 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 10 August 2024
  • Accept Date: 17 August 2024
  • First Publish Date: 16 September 2024
  • Publish Date: 16 September 2024

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