Spatial Integration, Human Density, and Land-Use Dynamics in Traditional Urban Areas: A Space Syntax Analysis of Old Rusafa, Baghdad

Aya F. Alobaydi, Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
Dhirgham Alobaydi, Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq AND College of Engineering, Al-Bayan University, Baghdad, IraqFollow
Sally F. Abdullah, Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq

Keywords

Urban configuration, Social sustainability, Space syntax, Human density, Cultural heritage

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Urban morphology is a key aspect in the development of socially sustainable environments, especially in traditional areas, whereby it is directly related to cultural identity. `Old Rusafa' is a traditional area where this investigation will be implemented. It addresses issues of population density and land-use transformation. The research aims to address a research gap by quantitatively evaluating the interrelationships among spatial configuration, human density, and land-use heterogeneity in heritage-based settings. The study is methodologically based on the application of Space Syntax (DepthmapX and QGIS) and statistical analysis using SPSS. Integrated values were calculated at the global (R = n) and local (R = 3) levels, and the resulting datasets were subjected to correlation analysis. The result showed a moderate positive correlation (ρ = 0.337, p < 0.01) between street connectivity and human density. The empirical results, in fact, suggest that integrated street networks encourage not only pedestrian movement but also commercial activity, whereas mixed land use promotes better walkability. Though the study's radius is limited to 400 m, observations were made in the morning, and only spatial, not socio-economic, factors were considered, the study provides a quantitative model that enables the assessment of the association between spatial morphology and social behaviour and thus is a fundamental tool supporting the sustainable rehabilitation of heritage districts.

Recommended Citation

Alobaydi, Aya F.; Alobaydi, Dhirgham; and Abdullah, Sally F. (2026) "Spatial Integration, Human Density, and Land-Use Dynamics in Traditional Urban Areas: A Space Syntax Analysis of Old Rusafa, Baghdad," Iraqi Journal of Architecture and Planning: Vol. 25: Iss. 2, Article 19.