Historical Analysis of the Example of Nowy Sącz in Space Syntax Perspective. Guidelines for Future Development of Urban Matrix in Medium-Sized Cities

Filip Suchoń,Justyna Olesiak

doi:10.3390/su131911071

Abstract

This paper presents the development of the public space of Nowy Sącz, taking into account the space syntax analysis of the historical maps of the city and the structure of its development. Nowy Sącz is a city located in southern Poland, with over 80,000 residents. A space syntax analysis of historical maps helps to explain the urban space’s growth and development structure. The scientific goal of this paper was to build model solutions and urban typologies of Nowy Sącz; to present the logic of the model; and to compare simulation results with reality and historical knowledge. The application goal was to explain the processes and popularize the insight using clear space syntax visualizations. Axial maps of street networks were developed using current and historical city plans (publicly available plans from the late 18th century to the present day). The space syntax methodology was employed to measure Integration and Choice variables for each stage of the city’s spatial development. The results indicating areas of the highest Integration value were verified against historical studies. A strong correlation was demonstrated between the foci of urban life of super-local reach and their places in a growing city’s structural network.

Highlights

Public open spaces are the most critical areas of modern cities striving for dynamic development
This paper presents an analysis of the development of an urban matrix in a medium-sized city—Nowy Sacz
The study used space syntax theories and methods to examine the socio-cultural dimensions embedded in spatial systems of historical significance [15]

Summary

Introduction

Public open spaces are the most critical areas of modern cities striving for dynamic development. The growing problems faced by these cities make them more difficult. The most significant worth of a modern urban center is its identity, and chaotic development is a cause of its disappearance. Public open spaces are the elements that shape the individual character of a city. They concentrate on essential functions and, at the same time, influence its image. The elements of public open spaces, composition, configuration, and interactions between them, together form the urban matrix [1]. This paper presents an analysis of the development of an urban matrix in a medium-sized city—Nowy Sacz,

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