Dynamic street environment

• Published in: Local environment 2010-05, Vol.15 (5), p.433-452
• Main Authors: Zadeh, F. Abbas, Sulaiman, A. B.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: activities; Cities; Culture; Data collection; Interviews; Iran; Mashhad; physical features; Public life; Roads & highways; Social behaviour; Social life & customs; street environment; Studies; Urban development; Urban sociology; Urban studies
• ISSN: 1354-9839; 1469-6711
• DOI: 10.1080/13549831003735403

The research examines the street's physical characteristics that are influenced by the culture in the city of Mashhad, Iran as a case study. It is evident that new developments in the traditional street have mostly eroded the cultural value of the urban environment. The techniques used for data collection include literature review, in-depth interview, questionnaire and field observation. The research outcome indicated, firstly, the street's physical characteristics which were influenced by culture and shaped the street form and function as a corridor to the Holy Shrine, a significant Iranian landmark. It is indicated that culture is a way of life influencing the physical appearance, activities and behavioural aspects that these are important to support human needs, therefore to create a sense of place. Secondly, culture, in line with the physical characteristics, would enhance the uniqueness of the street and its cultural value to support distinctiveness of the street environment. The third finding proves that cultural aspects have a significant role in activating public life and increasing the attractiveness of the street.