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Urban Design and Walkability: Lessons Learnt from Iranian Traditional Cities

Author

Listed:
  • Elmira Jamei

    (College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia)

  • Khatereh Ahmadi

    (Department of Architecture, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil 5619911367, Iran)

  • Hing Wah Chau

    (College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia)

  • Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian

    (School of Software & Electrical Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia)

  • Ben Horan

    (School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia)

  • Alex Stojcevski

    (School of Software & Electrical Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Elmira Jamei & Khatereh Ahmadi & Hing Wah Chau & Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian & Ben Horan & Alex Stojcevski, 2021. "Urban Design and Walkability: Lessons Learnt from Iranian Traditional Cities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(10), pages 1-14, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:10:p:5731-:d:558465
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Gassaway, Alexander R., 1992. "The adequacy of walkways for pedestrian movement along public roadways in the suburbs of an American city," Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, Elsevier, vol. 26(5), pages 361-379, September.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Zihao Cao & Muhizam Mustafa & Mohd Hafizal Mohd Isa, 2024. "Traditional Regionalism or Modern Minimalism? Unveiling the Psychological Impact of Architectural Styles in Sustainable Urban Planning," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(13), pages 1-20, June.
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    5. Kun Yuan & Hirokazu Abe & Noriko Otsuka & Kensuke Yasufuku & Akira Takahashi, 2023. "A Comprehensive Evaluation of Walkability in Historical Cities: The Case of Xi’an and Kyoto," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(6), pages 1-23, March.

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