Comparative Analysis of Architects’ and Users’ Perspectives on the Design Components of Urban Semi-Public Spaces: A Case Study of Shopping Complexes

مطالعات طراحی معماری و شهرسازی زمینه گرا

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 September 2025

Document Type: Original Article

DOI: 10.22067/cauds.2025.95322.1026

Authors

fatemeh mehdizadehseraj^{* 1}; Fatemeh MohammadiGazestani²; sanaz Haghshenas³; saeid piri⁴

¹Faculty Member, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST)

²Ph.D. Candidate in Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch

³Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Tehran East Branch

⁴Faculty Member, Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Semi-public spaces occupy an intermediate position between the public and private realms, serving both as transitional zones and as vibrant nodes for social engagement, commerce, and cultural exchange. In urban contexts, shopping complexes represent one of the most prevalent forms of such spaces, accommodating diverse user groups with varying social, cultural, and economic backgrounds.

While architects often approach these spaces through the lens of aesthetics, creativity, and spatial innovation, users tend to evaluate them based on accessibility, comfort, and practical functionality. This mismatch in priorities often leads to design outcomes that excel in visual form but may underperform in meeting everyday needs. This study seeks to critically examine these differing perspectives to inform more balanced and sustainable design strategies for semi-public urban spaces.A researcher-developed questionnaire was the principal data collection tool. Content validity was assessed via expert review and quantified through the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR). Face validity was confirmed by a panel of senior practitioners. Reliability was evaluated using a test–retest method over a three-week interval, yielding statistically significant correlation coefficients.

The study sample consisted of 153 space users and 50 architects, selected randomly in accordance with theoretical saturation principles to ensure representative coverage. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Chi-square independence tests to identify statistically significant differences in perceptions between the two groups.

Keywords

Space users; Participatory design; Urban sustainability; Design process