An Integrated Design Strategy for the Urban Regeneration of West Bay, Business District of Doha (State of Qatar)

Sarah M Al-Thani,Raffaello Furlan

doi:10.3390/designs4040055

Abstract

Emergent communities have integrated land use and transportation plan based on transit-oriented developments (TODs) and light rail transit with the sole purpose to enliven and redevelop the constructed environment. Doha has undergone some major transformation in urban growth context due to surge in the economy instigated by oil and gas production. It is noticed that the rapid growth has led to negative impacts in terms of urban design, connectivity, and transportation. It is essential to understand the impact of the TOD model with regards to the challenges and approaches in terms of planning procedures and tactics. The purpose of TOD module is to facilitate access for public transportation and to enable transit commutation which is a missing aspect in the current setting. TODs support and enable sustainable urbanism by revitalizing the livability through integration of land use schemes in the city. This paper focuses on bringing together TOD livability approaches within West Bay, the business district of Doha and its adjacent surroundings. The objective of this research is to assess the livability in West Bay with the implementation of the TOD model. The research findings help to revisit the design and application of TOD models and to enhance the livable conditions for its occupants. The finding suggests a design model based on livability, compactness, public realms, walkability, and accessibility.

Highlights

Doha as an urban development is one of the fast-growing Gulf cities, it is the capital of the state ofQatar
The findings are planned into three main section: (1) analysis of the city districts, neighborhoods, municipalities, streets, and public spaces with the aim of making urban selected area; (2) master plan proposal based on transit-oriented developments (TODs) factors; (3) urban planning strategies and areas livable and sustainable
Design according to human needs by addressing many factors, including physical, sociocultural, The West Bay area was analyzed through TOD sustainable key factors including: functional, and environmental factors

Summary

Introduction

Doha as an urban development is one of the fast-growing Gulf cities, it is the capital of the state ofQatar. Doha as an urban development is one of the fast-growing Gulf cities, it is the capital of the state of. Since the oily discovery in 1940s, the city began to expand rapidly, with its fast growth dependent on the rising cost of gas. In the 2000s decade, the city witnessed a huge urban change that continues to the present day, marked by major global events aligned with massive internal developments in visionary policies and urban practices. Among the most important change drivers in Doha is being the host of FIFA 2022 World Cup football tournament, where a massive number of projects and construction works are being undertaken and will proceed until the event’s launch. Planners and designers have adopted Western trends in architecture, such as high-rise buildings and mega projects, to reflect the global development of the city without considering the local identity and livability aspects

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