Space Syntax Analysis Research Articles

Design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) for modular buildings: an analytical framework

ABSTRACT Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) is a proactive strategy aimed at maximizing the potential of modular buildings to address issues, including labor shortages, time overruns, and low productivity. Despite its growing adoption, research on examining existing design practices remains limited. This study therefore aims to 1) develop an analytical framework and 2) uncover underlying modular building design patterns. Drawing inspiration from space syntax analysis, the framework comprises six components: nomenclature system, space identification, spatial relations, module shape, dimensions, and convex break-up. It was then applied to analyze 39 modular building units in Hong Kong. The established framework helps visualize underlying design patterns, e.g. spatial typologies, module shapes and sizes, and standardized spatial configurations. Several design patterns are also identified, i.e. typical space requirements, common module sizes, dimension-coordinated spaces, and the repetitive use of standardized spaces and modules to form units. This innovative framework, along with a discussion on evolving professional practices, offers valuable insights for advancing DfMA and modular construction. Future research is recommended to refine the framework and enhance DfMA by integrating these patterns with expert knowledge and computational intelligence.

Towards a configurational typology of informal settlements: A syntactic analysis of informal settlements in Nagpur

ABSTRACT Informal settlement serves as a critical means in the production of urban space in the Global South. Understanding the productive processes of self-organization and emergent morphological patterns is crucial not only in upgrading and integrating informal settlements but also in informing the practices of urban planning and design for shaping better urban places and public spaces. Contributing to the emerging literature on forms of informal settlement, this article presents a syntactic study of the configurational characteristics of 371 informal settlements in the city of Nagpur, India. The study identifies 18 different types based on four analytical variables generated using Space Syntax analysis—specifically, choice and integration at both local and global levels. The versatility and spread of these types indicate the flexibility of emergent informal settlements under a multitude of scenarios and conditions. The findings highlight the relations between formal and informal parts of the access network by showcasing the higher integration and choice values of the case studies when compared to the larger urban grid. The article contributes to the development of a typological framework for the classification of informal settlements based on their configurational characteristics.

Analyzing the Influence of Residents’ Sociocultural Reflections on the Spatial Configuration of Historical Persian Residential Architecture

This research investigates the relationship between socio-cultural reflections of residents and spatial diversity in historic Persian residential architecture. Despite the rich architectural heritage of Persian houses, there is limited understanding of how residents’ socio-cultural background influences their spatial arrangements. To address this gap, this study employs space syntax analysis, including axial, visibility graph analysis (VGA), agent-based analysis, and isovist approaches, to explore the genotype of 15 recognized Persian historic residential architectures. The findings reveal that the spatial configurations of these houses are deeply rooted in socio-cultural values, reflecting the diverse societal roles of residents. Variations in spatial arrangements highlight the adaptability of Persian historical houses in balancing privacy and sociability, influenced by the socio-cultural attributes of their occupants. The study also emphasizes the significance of transitional spaces in controlling social interactions with strangers to support cultural practices. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing a syntactic analysis of the socio-cultural underpinnings of Persian architectural typologies, offering insights that extend beyond Shiraz to the broader central Iranian context. The study concludes by advocating for practical policy implications and culturally rooted architectural design guidelines for Iranian construction engineering organizations to implement in their housing design projects. These insights can ultimately inform the development of contemporary housing in Iran, fostering a new wave of housing that is both culturally resonant and functionally innovative, while supporting socially sustainable living environments.

Space Syntax Analysis of Gated Communities in Jordan: Examining Urban Connectivity and Social Impact

The trend of gated communities is becoming the new alternative housing for the high-end residents of Jordan, reflecting global patterns of urbanisation. However, their emergence on the outskirts of Amman on vacant lands requires an early proactive planning approach to ensure their development in response to the growth of the surrounding areas, fostering an integrated urban fabric. This article examines whether gated communities contribute to urban discontinuity and lead to social segregation. The study employs a space syntax analysis on two cases in Amman to assess their integration, accessibility, and navigability to address the study’s key questions related to its integration, design implications, and spatial layout. Findings reveal significant spatial segregation, with low levels of integration and high step depth values, indicating potential challenges in navigation, connectivity, residents’ mobility, accessibility, and safety. The article suggests the importance of re-evaluating the design and planning approaches for these developments to promote organic townscape growth to ensure smooth integration with the surroundings.

Optimization of Video Surveillance System Deployment Based on Space Syntax and Deep Reinforcement Learning

With the widespread deployment of video surveillance devices, a large number of indoor and outdoor places are under the coverage of cameras, which plays a significant role in enhancing regional safety management and hazard detection. However, a vast number of cameras lead to high installation, maintenance, and analysis costs. At the same time, low-quality images and potential blind spots in key areas prevent the full utilization of the video system’s effectiveness. This paper proposes an optimization method for video surveillance system deployment based on space syntax analysis and deep reinforcement learning. First, space syntax is used to calculate the connectivity value, control value, depth value, and integration of the surveillance area. Combined with visibility and axial analysis results, a weighted index grid map of the area’s surveillance importance is constructed. This index describes the importance of video coverage at a given point in the area. Based on this index map, a deep reinforcement learning network based on DQN (Deep Q-Network) is proposed to optimize the best placement positions and angles for a given number of cameras in the area. Experiments show that the proposed framework, integrating space syntax and deep reinforcement learning, effectively improves video system coverage efficiency and allows for quick adjustment and refinement of camera placement by manually setting parameters for specific areas. Compared to existing coverage-first or experience-based optimization, the proposed method demonstrates significant performance and efficiency advantages.

Creating of urban spaces: between legislation and application. A case study of land use plan N°06 in the city of Batna

The illegal and disorderly practices committed by the IUC (inhabitants/users/citizens) have introduced chaos into urban spaces at different levels. The aim of this study is to examine how the practices do not comply with urban legislation impact urban spaces. It applies a socio-spatial analysis using three methodologies: the first is a social survey through questionnaires, the second is a field survey of the area studied, and the third is a spatial configuration modeling using space syntax analyses. The results show the dysfunctionalities caused by the unplanned interventions of IUCs within the study area, specifically land use plan N°06 in the city of Batna. Disobeying urban planning principles leads to compromised accessibility and visibility according to spatial syntax measures. Additionally, the results of the questionnaire and the survey highlight the inadequacy of legislation without effective enforcement mechanisms. Furthermore, the study contrasts the findings of field survey with spatial configuration analyses, indicating the disadvantages of the created urban space.

Navigating Urban Space

This paper explores pedestrian mobility patterns in Kypseli, a dense and socio-economically diverse neighborhood in Athens, Greece, that it is considered as a typical Greek residential area, in terms of its built environment and road network characteristics. The research method included crowdsourced geospatial data overlayed on cadastral maps, and semi-structured interviews with residents and visitors to understand the routes they usually take, the routes they could take, and the routes they would like to take. The study also applied space syntax analysis, using angular integration and choice tools, to assess how the urban layout impacts the pedestrian flow. Findings showed that the walking routes are primarily influenced by safety, accessibility, and pavement width, with well-connected streets and streets with intense mixed land-use. The study highlights the importance of urban design and land management in promoting the perceived walkability. It also recommends enhancing pedestrian spaces to create more sustainable, livable, and socially inclusive cities to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030 SDG 11.

Spatial reconfiguration of Iranian traditional houses to explore effective strategies of flexibility using space syntax analysis

Spatial reconfiguration of Iranian traditional houses to explore effective strategies of flexibility using space syntax analysis

Historic street layout and its impact on shaping residents’ daily lives: insights from Sanxue Street, Xi’an

ABSTRACT Historic street layouts are integral to historic districts’ tangible cultural heritage and are intricately linked to the residents’ daily lives; however, existing studies have only examined their spatial aspects, primarily using quantitative methods. Conversely, studies on tangible cultural heritage’s impact on residents’ lives have principally employed qualitative methods. Therefore, this study bridges qualitative and quantitative approaches to propose a layout – daily life model, which explains the relationship between the layout of Xi’an, China’s Sanxue Street historic and cultural district, and its residents’ daily lives. A combination of space syntax and geographic information system-based land-use analyses revealed that eating, shopping, calligraphy, and transportation were the main activities of residents. Questionnaire responses from 335 participants validated the proposed model and confirmed its feasibility. When certain types of facilities are widely distributed in streets with high choice and integration, residents’ daily lives tend to involve the functions represented by them. Furthermore, calligraphy is an important part of most residents’ daily lives, regardless of the transportation mode used. This study contributes to the understanding of the effect of tangible cultural heritage, particularly street layouts, on residents’ daily lives in historic districts.

Influence of Campus Outdoor Spaces on Students Behavior: Enhancing Social Interaction and Learning at An-Najah University

This study examines how the physical features of university campus outdoor spaces affect student behavior, aiming to promote social interaction and improve learning outcomes. Two central questions guide the research: how student movements relate to open space features, and how campus layout influences student circulation and interaction. By employing a mixed-method approach, including field observations and space syntax analysis, five areas at An-Najah University Campus are studied. The findings highlight the importance of these insights in urban design and planning, especially for teaching staff, students, and visitors. Results indicate that spatial layout and physical features significantly affect space usage, with students favoring areas with seating, shade, and social opportunities, adapting to informal setups when formal options are limited. Visibility is key, with students favoring spaces offering maximum visibility for seating. This understanding informs architects and planners in creating engaging campus environments for social interaction and learning.

Mapping the relationship between traffic accidents, road network configuration, and urban land use

Understanding the nature of traffic accidents in relation to urban access networks is crucial for building safer and more resilient cities. This paper examines the issue of traffic accidents through the lenses of urban configurational theory and urban land use. Three data layers were used in the study, including space syntax analysis conducted in Depthmap X, geotagged traffic accidents collected by the police department, and geotagged land-use data. The method involved superimposing these data layers and exploring potential correlations using a geographic information system (GIS). The findings indicate significant correlations between the spatial frequency of traffic accidents and the choice measure (at 2500 m), local integration, and active land use. The findings of this study can help inform planners and policymakers about the best location to implement safety measures to reduce the risk of traffic accidents in urban access networks.

Street Puppet Theatre Shows on the Façades of Commercial Buildings as a Novel Stimulator for Social Gatherings in Smart Cities

This study investigates the innovative use of street puppet theatre performances on the façades of commercial buildings to stimulate social gatherings in smart cities. This research investigates the impact of a unique musical puppet show held throughout the 2024 holiday season in the well-known shopping mall El Corte Inglés in Madrid, Spain. This study utilises both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, such as space syntax analysis and empirical observations. It uses the UCL Depthmap 10 software program to assess urban morphology and identify integrated and segregated areas. Observations and video recordings were conducted to analyse social gatherings and behaviours during the performances. The findings reveal that these performances attract diverse audiences and foster social engagement, transforming commercial façades into vibrant public spaces. The study concludes that such innovative uses of urban architecture can significantly enhance the sociability of detached and segregated urban spaces. The research demonstrates that this particular dynamic façade not only fosters social sustainability by creating lively urban spaces but also contributes to economic sustainability by attracting potential customers to commercial centres. This research advances the discourse on smart city development and public space utilisation, offering valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers on leveraging interactive urban façades to enhance public engagement and revitalise underutilised spaces.

Ergonomic Design for inclusive public spaces: a socio-demographic perspective on Chıld’s ergonomıcs ın Umranıye and Kadikoy, Istanbul

ABSTRACT This study employs mixed methods, integrating demographic variables to analyze public space space usage in child ergonomics Utilizing Space Syntax and Pierre Bourdieu’s theory within the framework of inclusive public space, it explores the relationship and needs between ergonomics and the socio-demographic statuses of children. The research applies an analytical approach based on Bourdieu’s focus on spatial capital to compare neighborhoods with varying socio-demographic characteristics in Istanbul’s Umraniye and Kadikoy districts. A critical spatial analysis emerges from comparing 14 public spaces in Umraniye’s Cakmak neighborhood (CS1) with a public area in Kadikoy’s Suadiye neighborhood (CS2). Methodologically, the study includes weekday (day 1) and weekend (day 2) field observations, Space Syntax analysis, TSI 2022 demographic data, digital maps, and anthropometric measurements specific to children aged 7–11. This effective mixed methodology provides a notable comparative spatial examination in child ergonomics research, highlighting clear disparities between the public spaces in CS1 and CS2.

Research on Environmental Behavior of Urban Parks in the North of China during Cold Weather—Nankai Park as a Case Study

The aging of the population is not only a global challenge, but it is also a major concern in the research on environmental behaviors. Urban green spaces are regarded as crucial for the well-being of the elderly. However, there is still a lack of in-depth investigation into the effect of spatial factors on the public activities performed by the elderly in urban parks in cold weather. Therefore, this study is aimed at filling this gap, with Nankai Park in Tianjin as the research object. In order to achieve this purpose, the behavioral patterns of elderly park users are mapped in this paper, based on participatory observation in combination with the collection of spatial data through continuous photography. To begin with, the park space is divided into 23 areas for correlation analysis. UCL Depthmap software is then used for park space syntax analysis, with Tangent used to evaluate the sunshine (shadow) factors. Specific indexes are established to quantify the spatial factors in each area, such as the shortest distance to the exit, the green space ratio, and facility density. GIS (Geographic Information System) is applied for data integration, and SPSS is applied to reveal the correlation between the behavioral data and the selected spatial factors. The key findings are as follows. (1) There are four space syntax indexes closely correlated with the activities that the elderly participate in. (2) The solar (overshadowing) conditions play an important role in the distribution of elderly park users. (3) There is no definitive relationship exhibited by the pattern of activities performed by the elderly with various factors such as number and diversity of seating facilities as well as the quantity and diversity of seating facilities. Finally, this analysis aims to explore research methodology that extends from qualitative observation to quantitative analysis. Future research will focus on the shaping of aging-friendly urban communities, which is expected to deepen our understanding of public activities held within urban parks in cold weather across the northern cities of China.

Exploring Campus Configuration and Patient Arrival Behaviors at Large Hospitals: An Integrated Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) Protocol.

This study addresses the challenges in hospital navigation, particularly focusing on the sequence of arrival experiences through foot traffic or driving within a medical campus. While previous research has emphasized wayfinding in interiors, this study recognizes the importance of transition from outdoor to indoor spaces in the hospital arrival zone. Twofold research efforts include: (1) Exploring vehicular and pedestrian behaviors in a hospital arrival zone using Space Syntax Analyses (SSA), and (2) Validating the SSA results using empirical data collected from onsite observations and behavior mapping. A series of axial map analyses were conducted on the hospital campus and building arrival zone regarding spatial connectivity and integration, depth of spaces, and wayfinding intelligibility based on vehicular and pedestrian movement paths. Systematic behavioral data collection includes vehicle shadowing (10 h) and pedestrian mapping (20 h) in the building arrival zone. Space Syntax Analyses indicates high intelligibility scores for vehicles (R = .91) and pedestrian (R = .78) circulation patterns; traffic situations were visualized via axial maps. A dataset of 219 vehicles and 2,096 pedestrian behaviors was analyzed and visualized using diagrams and heatmaps, identifying different occupancy patterns within the space. Correlational analyses indicated strong correlations between the results: connectivity and integration scores are significantly correlated with both vehicular and pedestrian traffic volumes. Preliminary findings of the study validated an integrated protocol to evaluate the impacts of campus configuration and building approach design on patient arrival and spatial navigation at large hospitals, serving as a POE protocol involving SSA.

<b>ANALISIS ORIENTASI PASIEN RAWAT JALAN MELALUI PENDEKATAN <i>WAYFINDING</i> DI RUMAH SAKIT DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN METODE<i> SPACE SYNTAX </i></b>

Analysis of Outpatient Orientation Through Wayfinding Approaches in Hospital Using the Space Syntax Method. The use of wayfinding in hospitals play a crucial role in guiding outpatient orientation. This study aims to assess and evaluate outpatient orientation through the wayfinding approach. It employs a descriptive quantitative method, collecting data through observation and questionnaires filled out by 102 respondents. The data are analyzed using SPSS software to measure patients understanding of orientation in the outpatient area. Additionally, the space syntax method is utilized to analyze two issue regarding spatial legibility in the outpatient area. First orientation and second, the use of wayfinding to enhance effectiveness. Space syntax analysis, conducted using the depthmapX software, aims to identify area causing orientation problems and area with wayfinding issue. The research finding indicate that orientation outpatient capability in the hospital installation exhibits a good level of familiarity, thereby facilitating patient orientation and navigation. However the space syantax results contrasting findings, indicating area that are diffuclt to perceive both visually and in term of distance to rooms, as well as area that serve as activity magnets for patient in the outpatient. Despite patients relatively high understanding of orientation, there are still deficiencies in the use of directional cues. This study provides an evaluation and recommendations to enchance the effectiveness of wayfinding in hospital.

Construction of Urban Spatial Intelligent Planning and Design System Under the Background of Big Data

Based on the induction of potentially utilisable micro-spaces in typical old residential communities, this study selects the communities located at 19 and 22 Yuhe Street, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, as typical research objects. By employing space syntax analysis, the spatial properties of these micro-spaces are examined and matched with the activity needs of various age groups within the community. By leveraging the characteristics of activity periods for all age groups, the study also proposes a composite design for less disruptive activity spaces. Consequently, optimisation suggestions for the renovation of public spaces in these two communities are presented, aiming to specifically meet the activity needs of residents of all ages within the limited space of the community. This research provides an analytical framework and methodological approach for the renovation strategies of old residential communities.

Patterns in the spatial configuration of Sultani Mosques in the Qajar period: a comparative study using space syntax and layout-based analysis

The pattern of built heritage provides insights into spatial organisation principles, revealing recurring traits among buildings of a similar type. Such constructions illuminate how building components are aligned and interconnected to embody a unified design ethos. However, well-preserved instances of a sequential series of similar buildings that were built in the same period based on historical evidence are rarely located. Thus, the Sultani Mosques, a prominent collection of mosques built in Iran between 1806 and 1840 under King Fath-Ali Shah of the Qajar dynasty's auspices, are particularly noteworthy, attracting scholarly attention from figures such as Ritter, Hillenbrand, and Scarce for their distinctive spatial organisation of architectural elements such as iwans, domes, naves, and courtyards. To comprehensively study the shared spatial organisation concept within these mosques through a comparative study, this research aimed to verify the spatial layout using analytical techniques such as space syntax and layout-based justified graphs. By juxtaposing these graphs and depth values, this research elucidated the spatial integration and privacy delineation within these religious structures. Moreover, an examination of layout-based graphs and immersive three-dimensional assessments reinforced and confirmed the prevailing layout configuration. The research findings reveal a cohesive architectural concept in Sultani mosques, as multifaceted accessibility was emphasised, and spatial layouts were structured to facilitate movement and interactions. Qajar architects likely established a consistent design approach across these mosques, integrating essential elements while accommodating educational spaces. When schools were included, courtyard dynamics were reshaped, which impacted spatial connections and access routes. Variations in building division configurations, vault spans, and spatial relations tailored to local contexts highlight the unique design and spatial value of each mosque. Preserving these spatial relationships in restoration efforts is crucial for maintaining the intrinsic spatial language and historical design significance of these mosques.

Design framework to renewal abandoned areas in historic districts

ABSTRACT Urbanization and population growth have profoundly impacted the environment of historic and cultural blocks, resulting in a lack of public buildings and spaces for internal adjustment, fostering pronounced homogeneity. This study focuses on completely abandoned areas within historical streets, integrating space syntax analysis with semantic analysis to explore reshaping regional public buildings. Unlike previous studies centered around restoring old objects, the abandoned disconnected areas require a novel regional public architecture design framework through the semantic transformation of archival photographs, historical plans, and local culture. Taking Huishan Ancient Town in Wuxi as a case study, this research comprehends the abandoned disconnection area through a literature review and examination of archival data. By using spatial syntax analysis to combine the overall pedestrian flow space with the depth of ancient historical plans, entrances are set according to the pedestrian flow, preserving unique spatial characteristics and transforming the abandoned land into new public building spaces with distinct regional and contiguous features. Through semantic translation rooted in local culture, classical elements were extracted from intangible cultural heritage and applied to the ancient town’s architectural facades, navigation systems, and structures, thereby mitigating homogenization tendencies in both spatial and cultural elements.

A Comparative Study driven by Spatial Performance and VR toward Wayfinding in Architectural Space: Healthcare Buildings as a Case Study

Healthcare buildings can be complicated to navigate, causing patients to experience stress and lose time if not adequately planned. This study aims to identify the relationship between the spatial layout in healthcare buildings and wayfinding for users, by utilizing Behavioral Sequence Analysis (BSA) and Space Syntax through Immersive Virtual Reality (iVR). The methodology is based on behavioral and spatial data and was tested by using the experimental setups in VR environments. Space syntax analysis is applied to collect spatial data. Experiments were conducted by assigning wayfinding tasks in virtual hospitals with various plan configurations. Behavioral data obtained from BSA was associated with the spatial data driven by the space syntax analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the participants’ wayfinding behavior. The results indicate that the semi-centralized floor plan layout with high visibility levels performs better in wayfinding while the decentralized layout with low visibility values performs worse.