Designing a Model for Identifying Factors Influencing Placemaking with a Special Focus on Enhancing Social Interactions (Case Study: Sanandaj City)

Document Type : Article extracted From phd dissertation

Authors
Hesam Rasoolabadi 1
Farzin Charehjoo 2
1 Department of Architecture, Sa.C., Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran.
2 Department of Urban Planning and Design, Sa.C., Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran.
10.22034/he.2026.567561.1184
Abstract
This study aims to identify and model the factors influencing placemaking, with a special emphasis on enhancing social interactions in urban spaces, focusing on the main streets of Sanandaj. In this regard, cultural, socio-economic, political, and geographical dimensions that affect people’s perception and use of public spaces have been examined. The research method is based on a systematic review of theoretical literature and previous studies in the fields of placemaking, social cohesion, and urban design. Data were collected from reliable international and domestic sources and analyzed through a comparative-analytical approach. In addition, design criteria and qualitative features related to pedestrian activities and social interactions in the main streets of Sanandaj were extracted and studied. The findings indicate that placemaking, as a socio-spatial process, will be successful only when it responds not merely to physical transformation but also to the community's social and cultural needs. Improving the quality of public spaces, increasing safety and aesthetics, strengthening opportunities for social interaction, and fostering a sense of belonging and place identity are among the key outcomes of this approach. Moreover, urban open and green spaces play a crucial role in reinforcing social cohesion and promoting individual and collective health. The study suggests that urban planners and designers should adopt a creative placemaking approach to enable active citizen participation. This can be achieved through designing main streets with an emphasis on walkability, creating complementary recreational and cultural spaces, and reviving the historical role of streets as social and cultural platforms. Consequently, the urban quality of life will be enhanced, and civic vitality in Sanandaj will expand.
Keywords
Placemaking
Social Interactions
Urban Spaces
Systematic Review
Sanandaj
Subjects
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Human Ecology
Volume 4, Issue 13
Winter 2026
Pages 2017-2039