The comparative analysis of SPACE SYNTAX and PPS approaches in measuring quality of urban space: The case of Beyazit district, Istanbul

Abstract

Spatial quality research is conducted using quantitative and qualitative research methods and techniques such as observation or surveys. The aim of the study is to make a comparative analysis of two research methods; the space syntax method, which focuses on a spatial configuration, and the Project for Public Spaces (PPS) approach, which focuses on the quality of urban spaces through principles defined as sociability, linkages and access, uses and activities, comfort and image, which enable understanding the socio-cultural characteristics of the area. This study uses these two methods to examine the concept of quality in urban space in order to measure the spatial quality of Beyazit Square and its surroundings in the historical peninsula of Istanbul. As a result, space syntax numerical values of integration, connectivity and intelligibility can be used as data for measuring the quality of urban space. However, there are differences between the PPS results and the spatial configuration data. This difference enables the identification of quality parameters that are dependent on and independent of the spatial configuration. Through this combined approach, the impact of spatial configuration on spatial quality is investigated. It is concluded that the combination of these two methods can provide a new alternative approach for comprehensive and reliable results in the quality measurement of urban spaces.