Motaleate Shahri

Urban Design

The evaluation of environmental quality factors on the Behavioral patterns in urban parks- Case study: Mardom park of Hamadan City

a l; ا س

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 3-18

Abstract

Nowadays, a faster pace of changes and transformations in different phenomena such people's lifestyles has meant changes in their thinking and needs also. Since people’s lifestyles are more oriented toward isolation, it is more important to reflect at their lives collectively. People's need for ... Read More Nowadays, a faster pace of changes and transformations in different phenomena such people's lifestyles has meant changes in their thinking and needs also. Since people’s lifestyles are more oriented toward isolation, it is more important to reflect at their lives collectively. People's need for places of social interaction and meeting psychological needs have become one of the requirements of urban life. Public spaces are the only spaces where all citizens of every class, age, race, and association have the right to use without any limitation. Environmental quality of urban public spaces is one of the focuses of recent urbanism research and attempting to create an urban public space that meets users desires behavior has always been considered as one of the main strategies of urban projects. Urban parks as a part of public spaces in cities have a fundamental role in resolving human needs. Most urban theorists believe that urban parks are one of the main components of an urban system because in addition to their functional role they increase socialization in urban spaces. Thus, in order to make these spaces more dynamic and to meet the needs of the people, the behaviors shaping the spaces should be noted and examined. Since most parks’ compliance with the needs of users and environmental qualities is, there is a need for a systematic program based on the behavior of users. Furthermore, issues such as neglect of social values, cultural - identity values, and the neglect of physical and structural values have lead to the formation of public spaces that do not meet people’s needs in urban areas. In addition, neglecting to improve the environmental quality of urban public spaces such as urban parks, not taking into account the effective qualities of urban transportation and connections, and the exclusive emphasis on the subjective perception by urban planners and designers has resulted in the formation of urban areas which does not have the capacity to be responsive and flexible in the accordance with people’s expectations and behaviours. For the purposes of this research, Mardom Park in the city of Hamadan was selected as a case study. This study aims to identify and assess the stimulants and patterns of user behavior in terms of their needs and the environmental quality of urban parks. This study was based on fieldwork with a cross-sectional approach and seeks to answer the following question: “what effects do behavioral patterns and domains have on improving the environmental quality of urban parks?” In this study, in order to provide a conceptual framework document-based research was carried out, theoretical issues explored in detail and then analyzed using existing approaches. For this purpose, in addition to the qualitative analysis of urban spaces and behaviors formed in space because of spatial characteristics, quantitative analysis of indicators using questionnaires was used. The quantitative indicators was analyzed by SPSS. The results show that the quality and amount of the influence of environmental quality factors on the quality of activities, which are primarily behaviors or behavioral patterns, are not the same. In addition, the analyses outcomes show direct influence of behavior on environmental quality and environmental quality on behavior. The results indicate on the one hand, human needs are the outcome of behaviorial influences on space and environment and the ability of underlying environment. On the other hand, enhancement of environmental quality and influence of environmental factors on areas and behaviorial patterns in urban parks are not only a quantitative and technical concepts.

Urban Planning

The Evaluation of Urban Development Plans Based on Interconnectedness and Connectivity Principle using AHP Model Case Study: Imam Ali Square Revitalization Plan in Isfahan

m e; e z

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 19-36

Abstract

In this article, factors influencing the integrity of the historic fabric of urban development projects are studied. Integration is one of the main features of the historic fabric of cities with hot and dry climates which is influenced by urban development projects. Reviewing theoretical and empirical ... Read More In this article, factors influencing the integrity of the historic fabric of urban development projects are studied. Integration is one of the main features of the historic fabric of cities with hot and dry climates which is influenced by urban development projects. Reviewing theoretical and empirical literature revealed that integration criteria is classified under five categories that include unification, interconnectedness and connectivity, porosity, authenticity and vulnerability. To investigate the effects of urban development plans on these criteria, the Revitalization of Imam Ali Square project, as one of the most important projects concerning the regeneration of the integrity of the historic fabric, was selected. This project was implemented in the crowded area of central Isfahan. The square dates back to eight hundred years ago. The open space of the square has been occupied since almost two hundred years ago, and just recently authorities decided to revitalize it. After introducing and surveying the case study area, the effects of the revitalization project on Imam Ali Square were examined based on the twenty-one sub-criteria of connectivity and interconnectedness of which information existed. Linkage and connectivity of access network, linkage and connectivity of landuses and functions, linkage and connectivity through revitalization of ancient buildings and ruins, linkage and connectivity of mass and space, linkage and connectivity of urban spaces walls and linkage and connectivity through the density are the six main criteria of interconnedtedness and connectivity principle. An analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was used to evaluate the project. In this research, the way AHP was carried out differed from the general way it is carried out in urban planning. That is because in the general use of AHP, several alternative plans exist whereas in this survey only one plan or option existed. Evaluating one plan by AHP needs three hypothetical alternatives. The plan can be compared with an acceptable hypothetical alternative, a desirable hypothetical alternative and an ideal hypothetical alternative. The overall result of the evaluation shows that the regeneration of Imam Ali Square is at an acceptable level. After comparing the hypothetical state of the present plan with the various criteria, the results indicate that the main criteria of interconnectedness and connectivity is far from the ideal state. Thus, although the physical-spatial criteria of integration are reasonable, it must be revised with an emphasis on process and flexibility in order to achieve better integration. The conclusion also shows how AHP can be used as a quantitive tool for evaluating qualitative criteria by assuming other alternatives. Possible solutions for reintegration of historic fabrics through revitalization plans include active participation of local community, urban design and transportation solutions of main access paths and streets for decreasing car speed, determination of urban design guidelines regarding quantity and quality of building new paths and widening existing paths in the peripheral areas of urban spaces. In addition to these guidelines, other solutions for the reintegration of urban historic fabrics are gradual development of street networks, flexibility of revitalization plans, small scale development and avoiding large scale ruins and demolitions, and paying attention to the current community needs and desires.

Urban Management

A comparative study of the laws and urban development plans based on the principles of good urban governance Case study: urban development plans of Tehran

m k; m b

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 37-48

Abstract

Increasing urbanization has created many problems and the administration and management of cities are faced with new challenges. These problems in third world countries are higher. Most of these problems are related to the political structure of the country. Therefore, citizen participation in urban ... Read More Increasing urbanization has created many problems and the administration and management of cities are faced with new challenges. These problems in third world countries are higher. Most of these problems are related to the political structure of the country. Therefore, citizen participation in urban governance in these countries is more necessary. The United Nations Human Settlements Programme of Action has strategies for achieving shelter for all, and has also proposed a move for the proper management and sustainable development of cities. These guidelines, approved by the General Assembly of the United Nations at the end of the twentieth century, have been set and implemented. Political systems can be centralized or decentralized. Generally, a non-centralized political and spatial system has more credibility amongst people. For this reason, local governments are one of the most important indicators of political and spatial distribution of power. Good governance also emphasizes decentralized political and spatial structure. In contemporary Iran, the concept of good governance and urban literature is abundant, but less attention is given to implementation of the legal field. Good governance is defined as the participative process in public affairs and where there is participation of the public sector, the private sector, and the government. It is argued that good governance is very essential for the management of urban development. However, little attention is being paid to the principles and potentials of the relevant laws in this area. This study aims to emphasize the role of good governance in the formulation of Iran’s and Tehran’s urban development laws and regulations. The major objective of this study is to identify and explain the degree of conformity between Tehran’s and Iran’s urban development laws and regulations with the principles of good urban governance. This study is explorative, descriptive and applicative in nature. The main sources that were used to collect the data required for this research include: 1. Organizational Law and Islamic Council's Mayoral Elections 2. Municipalities Law 3. Municipal Finance Law 4. Strategic-Structural Plan (Master Plan) of Tehran 5. Tehran landscape blueprints 6. Strategic plan of Tehran's Council 7. Medium-term action plans of Tehran Municipality 8. Long-term action plan of Tehran Municipality 9. Framework and approaches of Medium-term Action Plan of Tehran Municipality 10. Strategies for the implementation of the mandate Tehran Municipality 11. Budget of Tehran Municipality This study employed the Delphi method in order to conform the content of Tehran’s and Iran’s urban development laws and regulations to urban good governance principles. This study suggests that there is a relative orientation between those two issues. The rules of urban development of Tehran city conform and relate with the principles of good governance in 250 cases. The principles of ‘accountability’, municipal development laws, guidelines, and Tehran’s Municipality budget are the most accommodating. In addition, all of the contents of this research are the principles of good governance for cities. The regulations adopted by the City Council of Tehran Municipality have greater compliance with the principles of good governance. However, this direction has been developed with the aim of achieving access to good governance and urban planning. Thus, if these rules are implemented correctly, they can have an important role in promoting good governance in the city. This issue requires further research in order to expand this field.

Urban Sustainability

Measuring the Sustainability Level of Ardebil Neighborhoods, with an Emphasis on Rural based Neighborhoods

a m; a p

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 49-62

Abstract

Introduction Today environmental, social, and economic problems and issues concentrated in cities have necessitated attempts for undertaking research on sustainable development. Considering the role of neighborhoods as the mosaics of development, neighborhoodism and neighborhood-based planning is a ... Read More Introduction Today environmental, social, and economic problems and issues concentrated in cities have necessitated attempts for undertaking research on sustainable development. Considering the role of neighborhoods as the mosaics of development, neighborhoodism and neighborhood-based planning is a key approach that has receiveda great deal of attention in contemporary world literature. Neighborhoods, as the smallest space units in urban divisions, are the building organs of a city, in which the notion of citizenship grows. In this regard, Ardebil city has been facing many problems related to sustainability because of rapid urbanization, urban sprawl, mismanagement, unplanned skeletal structures, and weak economic structures and lack of attention to development projects in the field of urban planning. In this article, attempts have been made to measure the sustainability level of neighborhood development in the framework of skeletal, social, economic, environmental, and managerial (institutional, political) criteria using a field method. The studied neighborhoods include Niar, Kolkhuran, Golmaghan, Molabashi, and Mollayusef. The mentioned neighborhoods were originally villages that merged with the city. Data and Methodology The present research is practical in terms of its aim and is descriptive-analytical in terms of research methodology. To do this research, first exploratory studies were carried using library-documents method and the major part of this investigation was survey based using questionnaires and interviews. To measure the sustainability of neighborhoods, the five dimensions of skeletal, socio-cultural, economic, environmental, and institutional-political were used along with 20 criteria. The sample population consisted of the citizens of Niar, Golmaghan, Kolkhuran, Mopllabashi, and Mollayusef neighborhoods, among which 378 citizens, based on the Cochran formula, were chosen as thesample. The samplingmethod was random classified sampling where questionnaires were distributed and completedin proportion to each neighborhood population.To analyze the data obtained from the field operations of the two descriptive and inferential statistics, SPSS 22 Software with its one-sample t-test, one-way ANOVA/F (and the Scheffe test) as well as Kruskal-Wallis ranking were used. Furthermore, in order to specify the neighborhoods under study, Arc GIS Software was used. It should be noted that for measuring neighborhood sustainability, 20 criteria were used in five relevant dimensions with a 9-choice Likert scale, because the larger the number of scales, the closer the results to reality. Findings and Discussion The findings of the study reveal that among the 20 criteria investigated here,only the two criteria of neighborhood legibility and spatial devotion of the neighborhood were reasonably sustainable regarding averages larger than the theoretical averages of the research, while other criteria did not have a suitable condition. In comparing neighborhood sustainability using the significant difference test, it was observed that apart from the four criteria of access to services, social capital, participation, and good governance, the rest of criteria in this research significantly affected the sustainability of the studied neighborhoods. In other words, in the target neighborhoods there was a significant difference between the mentioned criteria.Overall, the neighborhood sustainability ranking in these five neighborhoods revealed that Niar was first while Kolkhuran was last. Comparing the findings of this study to previous research theories reveals that neighborhood sustainability largely depends on management and planning at this level. In a similar vein, poor civil participation and lack of proper developmental plans influence the increases or decrease in the sustainability of neighborhoods. Yet, the role of urban and meta-urban economic and social factors should not be ignored. Conclusion and Suggestion This research illustrates that the studied neighborhoods are at an unsustainable and underdeveloped level. The largest inequality is related to socio-economic criteria and the lowest one to environmental and managerial criteria. The level of unsustainability is different in the neighborhoods. Some neighborhoods such as Kolkhuran are facing severe unsustainability, while others such as Niar are afflicted with less sustainability. The solution to the problem of underdevelopment requires comprehensive and integrative measures in all the sectors related to development within the framework of management and neighborhood developmental planning. Accordingly, citizen participation, planning at the neighborhood level and empowerment of neighborhood residents socially and economically is essential in that it is effective in the development of neighborhoods. In this regard, attention to space planning at the neighborhood level is essential.

Regional Planning

Defining the City-Based Regions in Iran- Case study: Fars Province, Iran

s y; v m; h m

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 63-74

Abstract

Nowadays, the region – oriented urbanization as a growing and epidemic phenomenon in regional planning and analysis of urban systems has attracted much attention. At present, the spatial order of regions is beyond the traditional categorizing of “core – periphery” and could not ... Read More Nowadays, the region – oriented urbanization as a growing and epidemic phenomenon in regional planning and analysis of urban systems has attracted much attention. At present, the spatial order of regions is beyond the traditional categorizing of “core – periphery” and could not be interpreted by the processes of “Walter Kristaler central places theory” and patterns based on traditional “core – periphery” model. This is because these models are basically unable to justify space flows including information and economic flows. Thus, it is necessary to redefine the available realistic and operational processes. Realistic in the sense that explains the current processes and past procedures for the establishment of region and operational in the sense that it has the ability to identify, limit and stabilize neighborhoods and leads to an approach that determines the character of any area and can plan for it. Currently, region-oriented urbanization is a process that leads to concentration of activities, population, functions and flows which occurs side by side with social polarization and spatial dispersal. This study aims to present an analytical model to determine the foundation of the city and attempt to provide a realistic dialogue and explain the native method of identifying foundation areas of cities. Explaining the need for this model for finding city foundations shows a need for planning and management in these areas in order to maximize the functionality. Thus, the paper answers the following questions: 1- How can city – based regions be defined? 2- Which vernacular criteria and indicators affect the definitions of city – based regions?; and 3- What city – based regions exist in Fars province? From the point of view of research philosophy, this applied research can be categorized as a positivist one and the method of secondary data analysis was used. The necessary data was collected through document-based studies. Finally, using criteria and indicators such as city population, regional population density, density of urban settlements in regions, time interval between cities, goods and passenger flows between cities, and service dependence of cities, the city – based regions of Fars province was defined. In conclusion, the results reveal that in Fars Province only one “conurbation” exists and that centers in Shiraz city and five “Urban Agglomerations” exist in Abadeh-Eqlid, Fasa-Jahrom, Kazeroon-noorabad, Grash-Lar and Neiriz-Estahban. The pattern of spatial structure, the structure of road network and ratio (severity) of urbanization index in these city-based regions show that “Shiraz conurbation” and “Lar-Grash urban agglomeration” have Greater potential for the formation of a complete urban area compared to other city- based regions in the area. However, at the present time, what is important is taking into account the operational mechanism for planning and integrated management of these areas and to avoid administrative dispersion because of the number of cities and this requires complementary research.

Urban Design

Assessing Visual-Spatial Perception of the Imam Hussein Square

A M; n n

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 75-84

Abstract

Taking into consideration the aesthetic aspect of a physical environment is to deal with the sense of sight which leads to a cognitive-perceptual link of urban spaces for users of space. In analyzing the environmental aspects of visual themes, factors affecting perception of space, mechanisms of ... Read More Taking into consideration the aesthetic aspect of a physical environment is to deal with the sense of sight which leads to a cognitive-perceptual link of urban spaces for users of space. In analyzing the environmental aspects of visual themes, factors affecting perception of space, mechanisms of the visual system, social and environmental characteristics play a significant role. Thus, this article analyses the visual quality of the newly designed “Imam Hussein Square” and its effect on observers' perceptions, based on parameters that simultaneously monitor both visual and perceptual aspects as a coherent goal. In fact, the strategic role and location of Imam Hussein Square, which was built for the purpose of holding religious, cultural and folkloric ceremonies, calls for providing a well decorated and equipped space for users and so must have capacity of relating to space and users of space in a desirable manner. Thus, the main question of this paper is whether the design of this new cultural-folkloric plaza has established a good relationship with the citizens of the area and is in accordance with the visual and cognitive capacity of its users both in terms of physical space and visually. It further seeks to ask whether its visual-aesthetic components affect users’ cognitive image. Given the nature of the research, the Square was qualitatively surveyed by concepts of “visual perception theories, on the bases of elements of visual organization and the four features of perception". Thus, the authors surveyed the visual quality of Imam Hussein Square based on qualitative method to obtain the assessment goals and data was gathered through observations and interviews. Observation was carried out in the Square at randomly selected times (ordinary days or special events) over a period of 5 months and the visual information gathered was based on elements of visual organization (spatial, structural, regulation) such as sketch, elevation, detailed or panoramic images. In-depth semi-structural interviews based on four perceptual aspects (cognition, emotion, interpretation and evaluation) was undertaken with 24 citizen users of the Imam Hussein Square until saturation point (repeated data) was reached. In conclusion, the researchers found that the most significant incapability of the square`s design is that it is incapable of preparing meaningful communication between its additional elements and context and on another level, between people and the physical environment despite having a pre-determined scheme, special character, and accepted visual characteristics. This fact impacts spatial visual perceptions and results in misunderstanding of space. Therefore, the interactions between the visual and perception features affect other aspects of newly designed squares, such as presence and participation in events. Indeed, the quality of an urban place can be improved by improving its visual quality and positive impact on citizens' perceptions and understanding of an urban space. In other words, because the act of envisioning means receiving meaningful organized elements, the most important duty of an urban designer at that location (The Imam Hussein Square) is coordinating an appropriate relationship between visual and perceptual factors and creating a meaningful place for people according to context.

Regional Planning

Strategic analysis of border areas- Case study: boarder cities of Kurdistan Province

m sh; a o; m g

Volume 3, Issue 11 , August 2014, Pages 85-98

Abstract

The trafficking of goods in our country, in addition to having adverse economic effects is also important as an economic-social challenge. In addition, at present,this phenomenon is a serious threat to free tradeand imposes significant costs on the economic structure of countries.On the other hand, with ... Read More The trafficking of goods in our country, in addition to having adverse economic effects is also important as an economic-social challenge. In addition, at present,this phenomenon is a serious threat to free tradeand imposes significant costs on the economic structure of countries.On the other hand, with globalization of industry, trade, finance and changes in the international system, geo-strategic thoughts have turned towardbeliefs in geo-economic borders.Thus, changes in the functionofborders and seeing it as an economic opportunity by political system in place has caused an increase in population rates in border areas and has led to the creation of new conditions. This new situation has forced the center to reconsider its relations with its surroundings. Border regions of countries are considered sensitive and strategic areas.The isolated environment of non-fertile border regions, especially in mountainous and desert areas, linked to the absence of welfare systems and a lack of incentive for living is considered the basis of political, economic and security problems of present day governments. Inability to produce goods, lack of employment, low income and lack of access to basic needs are the most important socio-economic characteristics of the region that could lead to problems and disorders such as immigration, goods smuggling, insurgency and insecurity in the region.On the one hand, cities in these regions are very limited and are under-developed and there is a great need for comprehensive planning for these areas. So far, however, various problems related to these border areas have only been sporadically studied. Not only are border areas not been laid out and explained in the national development plans, but also their dimensions and characteristics are less likely considered.Goods smuggling as a sinister social phenomenon hasa very negative impact on the economy. Goodssmuggling is one of the important components of economic corruption.The present study analyzes the economic and social factors effective in reducing goods smuggling in the border areas of Kurdistan Province. In the present research, survey method was used. After collecting data using questionnaires and processingit with SPSS software, based on the measured variables descriptive statistics (frequency distribution tables) and inferential statistics (factor analysis) was used. Research statistical population consisted of officials and experts at 11organizations associated with smuggling in border areas (including security agencies and departments, the Governor’s Office, customs, the justice department, anti-smuggling campaigners, law enforcement, Economy and Finance Department, government inspection bodies, oil companies and the mining industry and trade) .The determined sample size consisted of 55 cases. Thus, in each organization or agency 5 experts were questioned. The research was carried out in 2012. A multiple-choice questionnaire was used and based on the Likert Scale, from very low to very high. The findings show that in the social component, the top priority was human resources followed by training, participation and quality of life. In the economic component, the top priority was financial investment followed by financial capital and commerce. Thus, it is recommended that in the utilization of natural mineral and agricultural resources in border towns, local labor force be used for export development. In addition, it is recommended that for the development of agricultural activities, local natural agricultural resources and native labor force be made use of in border towns in order to develop processing industries dependent on agricultural products and pave the way for creativity and innovation of young people in entrepreneurship and enterprise.

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Volume & Issue: Volume 3, Issue 11, August 2014, Pages 1-98

The evaluation of environmental quality factors on the Behavioral patterns in urban parks- Case study: Mardom park of Hamadan City

Abstract

The Evaluation of Urban Development Plans Based on Interconnectedness and Connectivity Principle using AHP Model Case Study: Imam Ali Square Revitalization Plan in Isfahan

Abstract

A comparative study of the laws and urban development plans based on the principles of good urban governance Case study: urban development plans of Tehran

Abstract

Measuring the Sustainability Level of Ardebil Neighborhoods, with an Emphasis on Rural based Neighborhoods

Abstract

Defining the City-Based Regions in Iran- Case study: Fars Province, Iran

Abstract

Assessing Visual-Spatial Perception of the Imam Hussein Square

Abstract

Strategic analysis of border areas- Case study: boarder cities of Kurdistan Province

Abstract