Enhancing Context-Asset-Based Satisfaction and Its Impact on User Behavior;An Ethnographic Analysis of the Khajeh Abed Passage in the Sangtarashan Quarter of Isfahan

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Shahid Ashrafi Esfahani University, Isfahan, Iran

2 Master of Architecture and Urban Planning, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Shahid Ashrafi Esfahani University, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Old neighborhoods situated within historical contexts serve as manifestations of neighborhood social structures and their profound impacts on the behavioral, perceptual, and functional patterns of residents in neighborhood centers. Dissatisfaction with the urban environment stems from a mismatch between behavioral needs and the triple characteristics of space: physical, perceptual, and functional. This research aims to identify factors influencing the satisfaction of residents in the Sangtarashan neighborhood and to promote this vital element, so that the valuable assets present in historical fabrics can be linked, as enduring and authentic models, with the principled development of new cities. The main objectives of the study include identifying the triple criteria (physical, perceptual, and functional) in the Khajeh Abed Passage, discovering the causes of residents’ dissatisfaction based on current behavioral patterns, and proposing effective factors for enhancing resident satisfaction in this neighborhood center. The methodology of this study is qualitative, based on analytical-field ethnography with an interpretive approach. Data collection was conducted through field techniques, including participant observation, photography, non-intrusive videography, unstructured interviews, and note-taking, after which the data were evaluated through content analysis. The findings emphasize the necessity of attending to the broad and diverse dimensions of existing structures in historical cities, going beyond conventional approaches that are often limited to purely physical aspects. This research ultimately leads to asset-based strategies aimed at creating a platform for integrating the new urban development system with the assets present in historical contexts. These assets, in addition to physical aspects, also include perceptual and functional dimensions, which appear essential for preserving and enhancing the historical and cultural identity of cities.

Highlights

  • Ethnographic analysis of Khajeh-Abed neighborhood reveals that resident satisfaction stems from the synergy of spatial, perceptual, and functional dimensions.
  • Perceptual factors such as sensory richness and place attachment play a crucial role in spatial attraction and social resilience.
  • Balancing heritage preservation and urban development serves as the core strategy for integrating historical assets with modern city growth.
  • Social behaviors and traditional rituals act as positive feedback mechanisms, reinforcing cultural identity and local social capital.
  • Asset-based, multi-dimensional strategies provide an effective model for memory-oriented, participatory urban regeneration in historic contexts.

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 December 2025
  • Revise Date: 22 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 09 March 2026
  • First Publish Date: 09 March 2026
  • Publish Date: 21 June 2026

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