Work

Urban Design and Walkability: Lessons Learnt from Iranian Traditional Cities

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: Physical activity is connected to public health in many ways, and walking is its most popular form. Modern planning models have been applied to cities to manage rapid urban expansions. However, this practice has led to low level of walkability and strong car-dependency in today’s cities. Hence, this study aims to provide a review of the most promising urban design parameters affecting walkability, using Frank Lawrence’s theory of “Objectively Measured Urban Form” (density, connectivity and accessibility, and mixed-use development) as the basis of discussion. The second part of this paper takes a case study approach, through discussing the main design elements of traditional Iranian cities (mosques, bazaars, residential quarters, and alleyways) and analyses their impacts on promoting walkability. This study concludes that incorporating inherent values of traditional urban design elements will complement modern planning and design practices.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su13105731

Authors: Elmira Jamei, Khatereh Ahmadi, Hing Wah Chau, Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian, Ben Horan, Alex Stojcevski

Institutions: Victoria University, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Swinburne University of Technology, Deakin University

Language: English

Topic: Urban Transport and Accessibility

Subfield: Transportation

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,052