This study investigates the implications of Tehran's rapid and uneven urbanization on the quality of life and the realization of human-centered urban indicators, emphasizing the sharp contrast between historic and newly developed neighborhoods. Over recent decades, the expansion of automobile-oriented development, population densification, and socio-spatial fragmentation have deepened inequalities across the urban fabric, producing environments that challenge the principles of human-centered urbanism. Within this context, the research conducts a comparative analysis of two neighborhoods with distinct morphological and social characteristics—Emamzadeh Yahya, representing Tehran's historic core, and Marzdaran, symbolizing its modern expansion—to identify their respective strengths, deficiencies, and potential pathways for integrating diverse urban qualities into a cohesive model of sustainable urban life.
The study employs a mixed-methods approach that integrates quantitative measurement with qualitative interpretation. In the quantitative phase, data were collected from 384 residents (192 from each neighborhood) using a standardized questionnaire developed around six core dimensions of human-centered urbanism: physical–spatial, socio–cultural, environmental, economic–functional, identity–historical, and technological–innovative. Statistical analyses, including independent samples t-tests, MANOVA, and structural equation modeling (SEM), were used to examine both the magnitude of differences and interrelationships among variables. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews and systematic field observations were conducted with residents and local experts to explore lived experiences, neighborhood identity, and the dynamics of everyday interaction. Thematic analysis was then applied to synthesize key insights and complement the quantitative findings.
Results indicated a clear divergence between the two case studies. Emamzadeh Yahya demonstrated stronger realization of socio–cultural and identity–historical indicators, where social cohesion, neighborly solidarity, and preservation of cultural heritage enhanced place attachment and social capital. However, infrastructural decay, limited public services, and inadequate maintenance restricted the fulfillment of physical and functional indicators. In contrast, Marzdaran exhibited significant advantages in physical–spatial, economic–functional, and technological–innovative aspects. Planned urban design, accessible amenities, and digital infrastructure contributed to higher operational efficiency and comfort, yet weak interpersonal relationships and a lack of shared collective identity limited its social sustainability.
The comparative analysis revealed that neither neighborhood independently achieves a comprehensive realization of human-centered urbanism, as each fulfills only part of the multidimensional requirements of sustainable urban quality. Emamzadeh Yahya represents community cohesion, cultural continuity, and identity-based attachment, whereas Marzdaran embodies modernity, functionality, and technological advancement. Consequently, achieving balanced and inclusive urban development in Tehran requires an integrated and context-sensitive approach that merges the socio-cultural and identity-driven values of historic districts with the physical, economic, and innovative capacities of modern neighborhoods. Conceptually, the study aligns with emerging global discourses on human-centered cities, inclusive urban regeneration, and 15-minute neighborhoods, while contributing a localized framework adapted to the socio-spatial realities of Iranian cities. Practically, it offers evidence-based insights for policymakers, planners, and urban designers to formulate regeneration strategies that preserve local identity while enhancing infrastructure, services, and technological efficiency. By bridging theoretical and empirical perspectives, the study fills a critical gap in existing research and proposes a comprehensive model for regenerating and improving urban quality of life within the broader context of Iranian metropolitan development. |
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