From Lost Spaces to Urban Places: Place Regeneration Using a Multilayered Analysis (Case Study: Rasht District 4)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Art, The University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

2 Faculty of Architecture and Art, The University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: 
Urban areas in many Iranian cities, including Rasht, contain neglected or underutilized sites that are spatially fragmented, functionally obsolete, or experientially disconnected from everyday urban life. These voids—referred to as lost spaces—represent a critical challenge for urban design and planning, as they undermine social vitality, environmental quality, and place identity.
This study explores the phenomenon of lost spaces in District 4 of Rasht, aiming to:

Identify and classify the types of lost spaces present;
Examine the multilayered physical, functional, and perceptual factors leading to their formation;
Extract key place-making components for their transformation; and
Propose an integrated conceptual framework to guide design, planning, and management interventions.

Methodology: In this research, a mixed, multilayer methodology was adopted, combining morphological analysis, space-syntax analysis, and perceptual–social assessment:

Morphological Analysis – Sixteen form–ground indicators (built-to-void ratio, block size and shape, frontage continuity, building height, permeability, etc.) were measured via GIS mapping and field surveys. The indicators were used to create a nine-type morphological classification of the study area, highlighting sectors with structural deficits that may foster lost spaces.
Space-Syntax Analysis – The street network was analyzed using DepthmapX with segment analysis (R=15) to evaluate spatial accessibility and integration. Core indices—Mean Depth, Integration (HH), Connectivity, and Control—were mapped to identify network discontinuities and low-movement corridors associated with spatial marginalization.
Perceptual–Social Assessment – Twenty-seven semi-structured interviews and mental mapping exercises were conducted with residents and experts. Thematic coding (778 initial codes, 34 secondary themes) yielded 10 principal place-making components and revealed 26 underlying factors—spanning physical-spatial, functional, and socio-perceptual dimensions—contributing to spatial “lostness.” Data from all three layers were cross-referenced to build a comprehensive typology of lost spaces and to formulate context-based place-making strategies.
Results: The morphological analysis revealed substantial variation across the district, with built-to-void ratios ranging from highly porous fabrics with fragmented plots to dense, fine-grained blocks. Nine distinct morphological types were identified. Lost spaces were predominantly associated with irregularly shaped blocks, low enclosure ratios, discontinuous frontages, and large vacant plots that disrupt urban coherence and pedestrian permeability.
Discussion: The findings of this research reveal that lost spaces in District 4 of Rasht are complex urban phenomena, shaped by overlapping physical, functional, and socio-perceptual deficiencies. The discussion is organized around three major themes: the typology of lost spaces, the underlying causes and contributing factors, and the place-making components and strategic approaches that can guide their transformation.
Conclusion:
By integrating morphological, spatial-network, and perceptual-social perspectives, this study provides a robust conceptual framework for regenerating lost spaces into vibrant, meaningful places. The framework connects typology, causal diagnosis, place-making components, and strategic interventions, offering a transferable tool for urban designers and planners seeking to revive underused urban fragments across Iranian cities and beyond.
Acknowledgment:
The authors gratefully acknowledge the contributions of local residents and experts who participated in interviews and mental mapping exercises.

 

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Main Subjects

References

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Urban Planning Knowledge
Volume 9, Issue 3
December 2025
Pages 48-74

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History

  • Receive Date: 20 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 05 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 22 September 2025

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