In a world where urbanization is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, the quest to create livable, sustainable cities has become more critical than ever. A recent study, led by Pelin Keçecioğlu Dağlı from the Department of Landscape Architecture at Bartın University in Türkiye, delves into the heart of this challenge, offering a global perspective on the quality of urban life and spatial quality criteria. The research, published in the Proceedings of the International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism (ICCAUA), which translates to the International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism, provides a comparative analysis that could reshape how cities are designed and evaluated.
The study focuses on the concept of “Quality of Urban Life” (QoUL), a multifaceted idea that encompasses the aesthetic, functional, and sustainable aspects of urban spaces. Keçecioğlu Dağlı and her team identified key criteria to evaluate urban spatial quality, drawing from a comprehensive literature review. These criteria were then applied to cities from different countries, offering a nuanced understanding of how urban spaces can be improved to enhance livability.
“Urban design is not just about creating visually appealing spaces; it’s about ensuring that cities are sustainable, effective, and livable,” Keçecioğlu Dağlı explained. “The key to achieving this is to determine the principles that increase the quality of urban space and make these principles measurable.”
The research highlights the importance of objective measurement methods for urban quality assessment, a factor that could significantly impact the energy sector. As cities strive to become more sustainable, the demand for energy-efficient urban design solutions is on the rise. By providing a framework to evaluate and enhance urban spatial quality, this study could guide urban planners and policymakers in making informed decisions that promote energy efficiency and sustainability.
One of the most compelling aspects of the study is its comparative analysis. By examining cities from different countries, the research offers a global perspective on urban spatial quality. This approach not only highlights the diversity of urban design principles but also underscores the universal need for livable, sustainable cities.
“The comparative analysis allows us to see what works and what doesn’t in different contexts,” Keçecioğlu Dağlı noted. “This knowledge is invaluable for creating cities that are not only livable but also resilient and adaptable to changing conditions.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the realm of urban planning. For the energy sector, the study provides a roadmap for integrating energy-efficient solutions into urban design. As cities become more densely populated, the demand for energy will continue to grow. By prioritizing urban spatial quality, cities can reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and create healthier, more sustainable environments.
In conclusion, Keçecioğlu Dağlı’s research offers a guiding framework to enhance the livability of cities, contributing to the development of objective measurement methods for urban quality assessment. As the world grapples with the challenges of rapid urbanization, this study provides valuable insights and practical solutions for creating cities that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable, effective, and livable. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism, serve as a call to action for urban planners, policymakers, and energy sector professionals to collaborate and innovate for a better urban future.