Life between buildings: examining the role of physical features in shaping social interactions within urban public spaces – the case of Honarmandan Park

Source abstract

Urban public spaces are essential areas for social interactions, community cohesion, and the overall vitality of cities. Despite extensive literature on public spaces, the conceptualization of ‘life in public spaces’ and the mechanisms through which physical features facilitate social interactions remain not only insufficiently theorized but also not empirically examined. Addressing this gap, the present study investigates how specific spatial and physical characteristics of urban public spaces influence social life, using Honarmandan Park in Tehran as a case study. A mixed-methods approach has been employed, combining structural equation modeling (SEM) to quantify the influence of physical attributes and behavioral mapping to observe patterns of social interactions among 667 park users. The findings indicate that inclusiveness, urban furniture, and land-use diversity are the most significant determinants of social vitality, while walkability and functional diversity have comparatively moderate effects. The study further emphasizes the mediating roles of perceived safety and climatic comfort in shaping social engagement. These results advance both theoretical understanding and practical guidance, high\lighting the need for integrated, context-sensitive urban design strategies that enhance socio-spatial connectivity, inclusivity, and vibrant, sustainable social life in public spaces.