Diagnosing space: a spatial modeling method to ameliorate socio-economic performance

Y. Ye & A. van Nes, "Quantitative tools in urban morphology: combining space syntax, spacematrix and mixed- use index in a GIS framework," Urban Morphology 18 (2014): 2

The take-away: This article presents a spatial modeling method designed to reveal concrete changes urban areas—particularly in new towns—can make to enhance socio-economic performance. The method employs characterizations of street-network integration, building density, and land-use mixture.

Abstract: A spatial modelling method is presented that utilizes a Geographical Information System  (GIS) to combine the analyses of three constituent elements of urban form recognized by M.  R. G. Conzen. The aim is to produce a spatial classification system for various types of urban  areas, and reveal how they perform socio-economically. In the proposed method, space  syntax, spacematrix, and mixed-use index (MXI) are used to assess street-network  integration, building density, and land-use mixture. These elements are incorporated into a  single framework. The validity of the method is initially tested through human behaviour  records based on Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking. The method is then used in a  comparison of the various spatial parameters of three new towns and one old town in the  Netherlands. The results show that the old town has higher values of streetnetwork  integration, building density, and land-use mixture than the new towns. The method functions well as a diagnostic tool for suggesting ways of improving socio-economic  performance in urban areas. For example a spatial diagnosis can be made for new towns  suffering from a lack of vibrant street life. The method helps to reveal the interdependences  of street-network integration, building density, and land-use mixture in urban transformation processes. 

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