Beyond Conservation: A Framework for Quantifying Urban Qualities in Historic City Centers

¹ Architecture Department, College of Engineering and Architecture, Al Yamamah University, Riyadh, KSA.
² Architecture Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
³ The Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transportation (AASTMT), Cairo, Egypt, and Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, KSA.

^* Corresponding author: d_fattah@yu.edu.sa

Abstract

What gives a place its unique character? What makes this place valuable to its community? Questions like these ultimately revolve around the practices that contribute to urban qualities. Historic city centers in MENA regions, despite their cultural significance, face challenges due to neglect, economic constraints, over-density, and inappropriate urban development. While conservation efforts have been extensive, they often overlook the urban qualities of these areas. This research aims to develop quantitative methods to assess the impact of conservation on urban qualities. By analyzing various conservation approaches and their effects on both physical (buildings, streets and other urban elements) and non-physical (comfort, safety, services) urban elements, the study seeks to identify key factors contributing to urban quality. Quantitative techniques will be employed to evaluate these factors, including aesthetics, sense of place, heritage, and social interaction. The research will ultimately propose a methodological framework for quantifying urban qualities in conserved historic areas, aiding in the evaluation and optimization of future conservation efforts.