Urban Design and Walkability: Lessons Learnt from Iranian Traditional Cities

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

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 10, 1-14

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.

Keywords: walkability; traditional cities; urban design; walkable cities (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (7)

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