Connecting neighborhoods through curturally-led open space networks : the case study of Ghadir, Jounieh -

Abstract

Vehicular dominated planning has caused major divisions between neighborhoods in cities around the world. This problem has become a major concern in urban design literature which has attempted to explain the reasons behind these disconnections, as well as the possible solutions to reconnect fragmented urban fabrics. Based on Dupuy (1992 in Salingaros, 2003, p.7), A city's life comes from its connectivity . This statement summarizes the main objective for the thesis which will be elaborated in the following proposition. This thesis builds on three major tools that are explained in the literature: Open space networks, walkability, and cultural planning. In addition to literature, these tools are further explored in eight different case studies to understand the advantages and limitations of each. Jounieh is a Lebanese coastal city that suffers from vehicular dominated planning. Today, Jounieh's neighborhoods are physically, visually and psychologically disconnected, hindering physical mobility and weakening the identity of the city. This disconnect has major implication on the available cultural resources which stops them from contributing to the daily life of Jounieh's residents. Based on Jounieh's assets and the concerns of its residents, this thesis proposes a strategy that would connect its fragmented neighborhoods and create a strong common urban identity that stretches beyond its municipal boundaries to achieve a more livable city to its residents and visitors. The study aims to improve connectivity between detached neighborhoods in the city of Jounieh by introducing a walkable open space network that is culturally oriented.