Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 PhD Candidate,of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz,, Iran
2 Associate Professor of Architecture and Urban Development of Islamic Art University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
3 Professor of Architecture and Urban Development of Islamic Art University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
Abstract
The challenge of determining the most appropriate method for spatial analysis has long captivated the attention of researchers. Many spatial studies rely solely on either quantitative or qualitative research methods and techniques, yielding insights that only scratch the surface of spatial characteristics. This research aims to conduct a comparative analysis of two spatial arrangement methods: one focusing on spatial structure and the other utilizing the "Project for Public Spaces" (PPS) approach, which emphasizes environmental quality through defined indicators such as sociability, accessibility, uses and activities, comfort, and image. Additionally, this study explores the feasibility of concurrently utilizing these methods to comprehensively assess the quality of the studied location. The rationale for selecting these methods includes their efficiency, widespread usage, and ability to accommodate both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The historical market of Tabriz city serves as the focal point for measuring spatial quality, serving as an architectural and urban design indicator. Quantitative values derived from the spatial arrangement method encompass coherence, connection, and comprehensibility. The findings of this study revealed discrepancies between the outcomes of these two methods. While PPS evaluated environmental factors in the market based on user feedback regarding socio-cultural impacts, the space arrangement analysis aligned with assumptions about individual behavior in relation to the market's physical structure. Compared to the spatial layout, which primarily assesses mobility and user movement through morphological indicators, PPS, by considering human factors, more accurately reflects the livability of market spaces. In conclusion, the integration of these two methods presents a novel alternative approach for obtaining comprehensive and reliable results in measuring space quality.
Keywords: Spatial Arrangement, PPS Matrix, Spatial Quality, Space Syntax, Tabriz Bazaar.
Introduction
Determining the most suitable method for spatial analysis has long captivated researchers' attention. Traditionally, spatial analysis has been conducted using either quantitative or qualitative research methods, each offering insights into specific aspects of spatial characteristics. One method that has gained prominence for investigating spatial qualities is the spatial arrangement method, first introduced in 1980 and further developed to explore the correlation between pedestrian movement and spatial configuration. Researchers employing this method utilize numerical data to elucidate the factors contributing to the success of spaces recognized for their high quality. Subsequently, since 1980, the PPS matrix has been utilized in a qualitative approach to evaluate public spaces, enhancing their livability by assessing the quality of successful spaces. This matrix serves as a foundational tool for studies on the success of places in numerous projects. However, each of these methods illuminates only certain qualitative aspects of space, necessitating a comprehensive investigation. Hence, this study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of these two methods within the Tabriz market setting. Specifically, utilizing the same study sample, the research will objectively and exemplarily explore the similarities and differences between these methods, their approaches to analyzing results, and the potential for their integration.
Literature Review
There have been extensive studies conducted on the Tabriz market, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. These studies have delved into various aspects, including the exploration of ancient structures, the evolutionary trajectory of architecture within the Tabriz market with an emphasis on contextualism, physical examinations of market spaces including intricate architectural motifs, and an analysis of economic functions and their impact, often employing a qualitative lens.
Additionally, a subset of studies has focused on evaluating the behavior of space users through quantitative methodologies and modeling techniques. For instance, Najari Nabi's research delves into the role of physical and functional factors in enhancing sociability within traditional Iranian markets, utilizing the space arrangement technique (Najari Nabi and Mahdinejad, 2019). Other studies, such as those by Abdullahi (2019) and Sajjadzadeh and Najari Nabi (2019), have explored spatial structures and behavioral patterns, while Hosseini Kia et al. (2002) have conducted a comparative analysis of spatial indicators for successful places, showcasing instances where quantitative and qualitative processes have been employed separately or in conjunction.
In contrast to previous studies, this research stands out due to its comparative examination of two distinct quantitative and qualitative methodologies within the Tabriz market setting. This innovative approach allows for a more comprehensive analysis of various dimensions, providing a nuanced perspective that integrates the outcomes of both quantitative and qualitative methods.
Methodology
In this study, two distinct methods were employed: 1) surveying using a field data collection tool, and 2) analyzing axial line maps. The survey outcomes were utilized to decipher the qualitative parameters of PPS, bolstered by observational data. This research encompasses a comparative evaluation and examination of the methods utilized to gauge the quality of spaces within the Tabriz market, employing the aforementioned two approaches in conjunction. The researcher engaged in interviews with users of the bazaar and business spaces to gather information on four separate occasions, totaling 4 days of data collection. The interviews were conducted for approximately 4 to 7 hours each day, spanning various times of the day until sunset.
Conclusion
The overarching outcome of the comparative analysis indicates that neither of these methods in isolation offers a comprehensive depiction of the spatial quality within the market. However, the amalgamation of insights derived from these two methods results in enhanced accuracy when assessing spatial qualities. Key findings from this analysis include:
The space layout method facilitates the identification of fixed market conditions, whereas the PPS approach enables exploration of variable situations encompassing uses, events, and all market activities.
Data obtained from the space arrangement method is contingent upon the market's scale and spatial structure, whereas results from the PPS approach are relatively independent of market scale.
PPS assesses environmental factors within the market alongside people's feedback regarding socio-cultural impacts, while the space layout method primarily analyzes individual behavior assumptions based on the market's physical structure.
Spatial quality evaluations indicate an average or higher-than-average rating based on PPS indicators, contrasting with lower-than-average ratings derived from spatial arrangement data.
Space syntax calculations involve numerical measurements of market axis lines within the northern markets and public spaces, whereas the PPS approach offers observational insights into how space practically influences user behavior, emotions, and perceptions.
Although there is partial overlap between space syntax and PPS evaluations, their advantages, such as rapid data acquisition and numerical measurement, render the space layout method suitable as an initial data collection tool preceding a space experiment.
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