A Qualitative Analysis of Ecological Resilience Components in Urban Neighborhoods from the Perspective of Architecture and Urban Planning Experts: A Thematic Analysis Approach

In recent decades, the intensification of climatic and environmental pressures in cities has transformed ecological resilience from a predominantly theoretical concept into a practical necessity for urban neighborhood planning and design. Against this background, the present study aimed to identify and systematically conceptualize the components of ecological resilience in urban neighborhoods from the perspective of architecture and urban planning experts, with a focus on the Ozgol neighborhood in Tehran. The study was developmental and applied in purpose and qualitative and exploratory in nature. Participants comprised 14 experts in architecture and urban planning, selected through purposive and snowball sampling until adequate information power was achieved and no new themes emerged. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and coded and interpreted using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings yielded six overarching themes: connectivity and diversity of green–blue systems; physical and climatic adaptability; infrastructural efficiency and self-reliance; functional diversity and flexibility; environmental participation and social capital; and adaptive governance and institutional learning. The results indicate that neighborhood ecological resilience emerges from the interaction of natural, spatial, infrastructural, social, and institutional capacities and cannot be achieved merely by increasing green space or improving individual infrastructure components in isolation. The proposed conceptual model identifies adaptive governance and social participation as the connecting mechanisms that integrate and activate the other capacities. Accordingly, integrated green–blue network planning, revision of physical development regulations, enhancement of local infrastructure, and the establishment of participatory monitoring mechanisms are recommended to strengthen neighborhood-level ecological resilience.