The Indicators of Successful Public Open Spaces: A Comparative Case Study in Erbil City

Abstract

 Many studies indicate that public open space is one of important urban environment elements which give positive contribution to quality of life. Public spaces play an integral role in urban life. Yet, the use of public space is diminishing (Carmona, 2010, p32). Public open space is vital criteria of successful cities that can help to build a sense of community. They are a mirror of values, customs, culture and reflection of the interaction between physical, social, political and economic realities. Efforts have been made to evaluate public space conditions (i.e., physical, spatial, visual, social, functional, and etc.) for users and a series of indicators physical environmental qualities (i.e., scenic beauty, seating, lighting, paths, amenities, etc.) and subjective qualities (i.e., being comfortable, passive and active engagement, and etc.) The main aim of this paper is to explore not only the vitality and successfulness of Shar park (City Center Park) see fig.1. In contemporary context of Erbil, but to demonstrate the main and affective criteria of their success. For this purpose, a comparative case study have been prepared for three of Erbil city’s public open space were selected as case studies. Accordingly, this paper investigated the popularity, diversity, distinctiveness, attractiveness and comfort of the gardens as success indicators through applying mixed method approaches. Obtained results suggested that Shar Park (City Center Park) could be categorized as successful public places due to their historical, natural, and functional (social and recreational) and emotional related aspects. And different guidelines that consider the needs of various users were explored. The results have direct implications for urban planners and policy makers, landscape architects and environmental designers.