Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Background and Purpose: Shifting from the car-centric paradigm to a human-centric approach in designing public spaces is a critical prerequisite for enhancing citizens' quality of life. This study aims to assess the impact of human-centric urban design on the quality of life of users at Mosallas Square in Dezful. In this model, the mediating role of "satisfaction" and the direct effects of "perceived quality" and "sense of belonging" were analyzed within the structural equation modeling framework to examine how the physical characteristics of the space are perceived by users and translated into quality of life.
Methodology: Applied in purpose and descriptive-survey in nature, this study adopts a correlational approach. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire from a sample of 384 users selected through random sampling. This instrument measured components of human-centric design and quality of life across physical and perceptual dimensions. To analyze the structural relationships between variables, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method was employed in SmartPLS software.
Results and Findings: Descriptive findings indicate that while the square possesses a high capacity for fostering a sense of belonging (mean = 3.54), the environmental comfort index is at the lowest level (mean = 2.62), reflecting weaknesses in infrastructural and climatic facilities The results demonstrate that human-centric urban design has a positive and significant effect on user satisfaction, and this variable plays a mediating role in enhancing quality of life. Additionally, 'sense of belonging' and 'perceived quality' exert a direct and significant impact on quality of life. The findings suggest that in identity-based public spaces, such as Mosallas Square, the impact of physical weaknesses on quality of life and user satisfaction can be neutralized by the power of 'sense of belonging' and collective memories. Therefore, it is proposed that urban interventions in this square, alongside physical modifications, should focus on improving the lived experience and psychological satisfaction of the users.

Abstract The sense of place establishes an inseparable bond between the individuals and the place, leading to individual harmony and satisfaction with the environment while providing the necessary motivation to remain in the environment. The coffee shop is one of the main urban spaces, chosen not only for drinking tea or coffee but also for experiencing the meaning and emotions while spending some hours away from work and stress. Hence, it is necessary to know the factors that affect the sense of place and what puts humans in an internal relationship with the environment. This study generally aims to examine the concept of the sense of place and the factors affecting its creation, particularly the physical body in the coffee shop environment. Library and documentary studies have been used to collect data and the theoretical foundations of the research. The field survey method (observation, interview) has also been employed to investigate and analyze the physical components affecting the sense of place. According to the results, the physical component, influenced by ten indicators of color, geometry, materials, natural and artificial lights, scale, diversity, beauty, and natural elements, has the most significant contribution to the creation and promotion of the sense of place in the coffee shop. Examination of physical components in Blanche Café also showed that indicators of light, natural elements and spatial diversity are the most effective in promoting a sense of place in the sample. Finally, solutions are proposed to enhance the sense of place for each physical component.