Examining the Physical–Spatial Components Affecting the Social Resilience of the Intermediate Spaces of the Zeytoon Residential Complex in Isfahan in the Face of Pandemics, with Special Emphasis on COVID-19
Keywords:
Physical-Spatial Components, Social Resilience, COVID-19, Intermediate Space, Zeytoon Residential ComplexAbstract
Resilience is a relatively new concept in architecture and urban planning that has attracted the attention of theorists in these fields. The concept has also been extended to other dimensions of urban communities, including social and economic dimensions. Physical–spatial components are among the factors influencing social resilience, and the present study seeks to investigate the relationship between these components and social resilience. In terms of purpose, this study is applied research, and its methodology is exploratory, analytical–descriptive, and survey-based. Initially, the physical–spatial components, social resilience, COVID-19, and intermediate spaces were identified through a review of the theoretical literature. The final indicators were then extracted and prioritized using the Delphi method and based on experts’ opinions. Simple random sampling was subsequently used to select residents of the Zeytoon Residential Complex. Data were collected through a researcher-developed questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative data were examined through thematic content analysis. The findings indicate that the components of daylighting and illumination in intermediate spaces, the presence of water features and fountains, the number of seating areas and sanitary facilities, flexibility in spatial arrangement, green spaces, circulation and pause spaces, open areas for collective gatherings of residents, diversity created through architectural details, designated open spaces for children, the separation of private, semi-private, and public spaces, and the appropriate placement of internal functions were in a favorable condition. By contrast, the components of usability under different climatic conditions, gender-segregated spaces, and designated sports spaces were in an unfavorable condition. The findings further demonstrate that gender-segregated spaces and circulation and pause spaces within the intermediate areas of the Zeytoon Residential Complex influence residents’ social presence and interactions. Among all physical–spatial components, green spaces, open sports areas, and water features and fountains exerted the greatest influence on social resilience in the Zeytoon Residential Complex.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Shirin Shapari (Author); Nooshin Abbasi; Mohammadreza Ebrahimnezhad (Author)
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