Applying the Process-Oriented Approach to Explain the Physical Development Components of Urban Spaces by QSPM Method (Case Study: Azadi Square, Sanandaj)

In the past, squares were one of the most people-oriented urban places in Iranian cities. But in recent decades they have been in utter disarray. Nowadays, the social concept of the square is gone and its traffic role has become more important. Azadi square in Sanandaj is no exception. The main purpose of the present study is to achieve the creative process of physical development in urban squares and its use in case study place-making. A theoretical framework was adopted based on documentary review which showed compatibility of square nature with place-making approach in terms of "urban architecture, hard and soft landscape, motives and incentives, activity, and environment". The applied method of the present study is an analytical-participatory, by which the following techniques are used to assess the components of place-making: observation, survey, GIS, node and mane, Envy-Met. It will also integrate the analytic hierarchical process (AHP) with the SWOT table, and use it in the QSPM matrix to prioritize SWOT factors and place-making components. While presenting strategies, policies and physical development of the case study and the creative process of physical development of the urban squares, it is identified that the importance of landscape, incentives, activity, and architectural components of the building have, respectively, the greatest impacts on the place-making of urban squares.