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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Tourism, Culture, and Heritage".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 19112

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Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Gamal Abdelmonem

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Guest Editor

Department of Architecture & The Built Environment, University of York, York YO10 5GD, UK
Interests: architectural and urban heritage; historic cities; virtual heritage technologies; urban regeneration; historic preservation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Over the past few decades, architectural and urban heritage have come under the pressure of unprecedented challenges, from climate change to a global pandemic, natural disasters, mass displacement and destruction because of wars and conflicts. Those pressures exposed the critical vulnerability of our built environment and its connection to tangible and intangible heritage, resulting in a decline in community participation, agency, communities, and quality urban regeneration. This Special Issue offers a critical interrogation of innovative research and practice in architectural and urban heritage that engages multiple facets, enquiries, players and contexts. It looks into the interconnections of place, space, and communities in the contemporary city and how they drive context-based solutions, practices and novel methodologies. The special issue welcomes novel approaches that uncover and interrogate new modes of research into recording, preserving and engaging with architectural and urban heritage as an agency of positive and inclusive change in historic environments. In this sense, broader perspectives towards heritage preservation or regeneration using digital technology and applications of adaptive reuse or development of historic areas, urban space and cultural practices in different regional contexts and case studies from different parts of the world are welcome.

This issue aims to share theoretical, methodological, and practical enquiries in applied research through a context-based approach to analyse architectural and urban heritage. It will engage scholars and practitioners in intellectual dialogue about the changing socio-cultural and urban space and the role of architects and urban designers as change agents. It will underline the shift from the professional focus on the physical fabric and qualities of historic buildings to the socio-spatial approach that engages the public in the histories, narratives and stories of their legacies.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may consider (but not limited to) the following themes:

History and theory of architecture and conservation
Urban regeneration and cultural developments
Historic Cities and heritage preservation
Architectural and urban heritage in post-conflict contexts
Social recovery: Communities and urban design
Digital technology and the reconstruction of history
Green heritage and sustainable preservation
Urban cultural and heritage economies

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Gamal Abdelmonem
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

Architectural history and theory
Historic cities
urban design and regeneration
community and spatial memory
intangible heritage
digital technology
climate change

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

26 pages, 36069 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing the Sustainability of AI Technology in Architectural Design: Improving the Matching Accuracy of Chinese-Style Buildings

by Feiran Chen, Mengran Mai, Xinyi Huang and Yinghan Li

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8414; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198414 - 27 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1505

Abstract

This study discusses the application of AI technology in the design of traditional Chinese-style architecture, aiming to enhance AI’s matching accuracy and sustainability. Currently, there are limitations in AI technology in generating details of traditional Chinese-style architecture, so this study proposes a method of fine-tuning AI pre-training models, by extracting samples of traditional architectural style elements, to enhance the trajectory and output accuracy of AI generation. The research method includes constructing AI pre-training models, using DreamBooth and ControlNet tools for personalized training and perspective control. Through experimental verification, this study found that pre-trained models can effectively enhance the accuracy and controllability of AI in the preliminary design of architecture. At the same time, the application of ControlNet technology has significantly improved the accuracy and realism of architectural rendering. The value of this study lies in proposing a new method that combines AI technology with the process of traditional Chinese architectural design, which can help architects better protect and inherit the culture of traditional Chinese architecture. Through this method, it can reduce the difficulty of learning traditional Chinese architectural design, optimize the design process, enhance design efficiency, and provide strong support for the sustainable development of traditional Chinese architecture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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22 pages, 6823 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Place-Based Perspectives on Understanding the Value of Sustainable Heritage-Inspired Arts and Crafts in Jordan

by May Newisar, Gehan Selim and Meng Li

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7547; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177547 - 31 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1375

Abstract

This article highlights the challenges of rigorously evaluating and meaningfully communicating the socio-economic impacts of arts and crafts in northern Jordan. This article aims to identify and analyse the challenges confronting place-based arts and crafts industries in Jordan and propose valid policies and practices to address these challenges. The methodology employed involved a comprehensive review of the existing literature to elucidate the challenges faced by heritage-based artisans, and we propose several policies aimed at promoting and safeguarding the arts and crafts heritage. The findings supporting this research were derived from a series of practical workshops and focus group interviews conducted in 2022. This article also presents empirical evidence to highlight the identified challenges. It emphasises the importance of the proposed policy recommendations for the Jordanian sector, providing the audience with a sense of empowerment and an understanding of the potential solutions. This work could offer insights into how local communities innovatively leverage creative capacities, create localised impact, and address local challenges. We argue that the value of arts and crafts is better understood locally to provide impactful experiences based on community-led and community-generated creativity and flexibility. A creative participatory approach is used to create contemporary art designs and train young people on artistic and craft-making skills, application, and production as a credible precedent and best practice for developing creative cultural “enterprises” in Jordan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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29 pages, 7854 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bridging Built Environment Attributes and Perceived City Images: Exploring Dual Influences on Resident Satisfaction in Revitalizing Post-Industrial Neighborhoods

by Xian Ji, Kai Li, Chang Liu and Furui Shang

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7272; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177272 - 23 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1130

Abstract

The deterioration of physical spaces and changes in the social environment have led to significant challenges and low life satisfaction among residents in post-industrial neighborhoods. While resident satisfaction is closely linked to the built environment, physical attributes alone do not directly influence human feelings. The perception and processing of urban environments, or city images, play a critical mediating role. Previous studies have often explored the impact of either city image perception or physical space attributes on resident satisfaction separately, lacking an integrated approach. This study addresses this gap by examining the interplay between subjective perceptions and objective environmental attributes. Unlike previous studies that use the whole neighborhood area for human perception, our study uses the actual activity ranges of residents to represent the living environment. Utilizing data from Shenyang, China, and employing image semantic segmentation technology and multiple regression methods, we analyze how subjective city image factors influence resident satisfaction and how objective urban spatial indicators affect these perceptions. We integrate these aspects to rank objective spatial indicators by their impact on resident satisfaction. The results demonstrate that all city image factors significantly and positively influence resident satisfaction, with the overall impression of the area’s appearance having the greatest impact (β = 0.362). Certain objective spatial indicators also significantly affect subjective city image perceptions. For instance, traffic lights are negatively correlated with the perception of greenery (β = −0.079), while grass is positively correlated (β = 0.626). Key factors affecting resident satisfaction include pedestrian flow, traffic flow, open spaces, sky openness, and green space levels. This study provides essential insights for urban planners and policymakers, helping prioritize sustainable updates in post-industrial neighborhoods. By guiding targeted revitalization strategies, this research contributes to improving the quality of life and advancing sustainable urban development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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19 pages, 6778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Simulating Heritage Corridors for Sustainable Development of Industrial Heritage in Foshan City, China

by Linghan Yao, Chao Gao, Yingnan Zhuang, Hongye Yang and Xiaoyi Wang

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5605; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135605 - 30 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1091

Abstract

Industrial heritage serves as a testament to the historical and cultural legacy of industrialization, and its preservation and adaptive reuse are crucial for promoting sustainable urban development. This study explores the spatiotemporal dynamics of industrial heritage in Foshan City, China, and simulates potential heritage corridors to inform effective conservation and revitalization strategies. By employing Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and Standard Deviational Ellipse (SDE) methods, the research investigates the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of industrial heritage across different historical periods and industrial types. An Analytic Hierarchical Process (AHP) is used to construct a hierarchical model of resistance factors, which serves as the basis for simulating potential heritage corridors using the Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) model. The results unveil distinct spatiotemporal distribution patterns, with concentrations of industrial heritage in the central Chancheng District and southeastern Shunde District. Two primary potential heritage corridors are identified, and prioritized strategies for their adaptive reuse are proposed. The findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of industrial heritage distribution in Foshan City and provide valuable insights for the conservation, planning, and sustainable development of these significant sites. The study highlights the importance of integrating spatiotemporal analysis and heritage corridor modeling in the decision-making process for industrial heritage revitalization, ensuring the preservation of invaluable industrial history and culture while fostering sustainable urban growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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23 pages, 8060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Dynamics and Social Order in Traditional Towns of Saudi Arabia’s Nadji Region: The Role of Neighborhood Clustering in Urban Morphology and Decision-Making Processes

by Mohammed Mashary Alnaim and Emad Noaime

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2830; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072830 - 28 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1734

Abstract

This study explores how the layout of neighborhoods in traditional settlements of Saudi Arabia’s Najdi region influence social interactions and urban planning decisions. The study uses a multidisciplinary approach that includes urban morphology, architectural phenomenology, and sociological study methods to investigate the relationships between spatial organization and decision-making processes on both the macro and micro levels of decision-making. The purpose is to look at how collective action decision-making processes affect the urban fabric and how social norms influence spatial organization at different levels. The study applies case study and spatial analysis approaches to investigate how the traditional settlements’ spatial structure promotes peace among the inhabitants while also sustaining cultural traditions. The qualitative approach investigates how spatial arrangements influence behaviors, developing a better understanding of how residents interact with their surroundings. According to the study’s findings, these spatial layouts sustain customs and assist communities in adapting to environmental changes by retaining cultural activities. The study identifies the significance of balancing development with the retention of important traditional values in the implementation of long-term urban conservation plans. Traditional Najdi towns can serve as urban design examples, emphasizing the need to acknowledge the distinct value of vernacular architecture in modern urban development while also fostering social cohesion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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23 pages, 3922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Heritage Practice and Its Characteristics Based on Architectural Heritage Conservation—A Case Study of the Management Platform of the Shanghai Federation of Literary and Art Circles China

by Heng Song, Gehan Selim and Yun Gao

Sustainability 2023, 15(24), 16559; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152416559 - 5 Dec 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1927

Abstract

This article aims to find out the process for achieving smartness in urban architectural heritage conservation, maintenance, and operation and identify characteristics of the so-called smartness. It seeks to provide an example of introducing smart ideas into architectural heritage while encouraging more conservation. The discussions among architectural heritage conservation under the smart discourse are scattered in virtual applications, digital involvements, tourism, etc., and an integration method is worth considering. This article selected a platform for architectural heritage conservation and management of the Shanghai Federation of Literary and Art Circles (SFLAC), China. An integrated literature review is conducted to locate knowledge gaps. Thematic analysis is used for data analysis to develop the practising procedure and smart heritage features. Current practices lack a systematic consideration based on the perspective of conservation and management, which details applications for various groups in correspondence to stages. Interviews and policy document analysis were conducted to support the investigation. Smartness for architectural heritage should include policy guidance, digitalisation, platform integration, applications, and optimisations and has the feature of evolvement. Its practice should first promote heritage preservation and consider the benefits of different users, cultural inheritance, and urban regeneration based on different time durations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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18 pages, 4997 KiB

Open AccessArticle

3D Digital Modeling as a Sustainable Conservation and Revitalization Path for the Cultural Heritage of Han Dynasty Stone Reliefs

by Difei Zhao, Chaowei Liu, Xinyue Zhang, Xiaoyue Zhai, Yinglan Deng, Hongyu Chen, Juju Hu, Dandan Liu and Pingjia Luo

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12487; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612487 - 17 Aug 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2504

Abstract

Cultural relics and historical sites serve as carriers of cultural, historical, and artistic information. However, any damage incurred by these cultural relics can result in the loss of information, consequently impacting sustainable conservation and revitalization of the cultural heritage. Han Dynasty stone reliefs are a representative carrier of art and history during the Han Dynasty, an early stage of Chinese history. Due to the influence of materials, carving techniques, and protective measures, the conservation and revitalization of Han Dynasty stone reliefs have been significantly restricted. In this study, a systematic investigation was carried out to study the current situation and existing problems related to the protection of Han Dynasty stone reliefs. Additionally, a case study was conducted using the Wuling Ancestral Hall (Wuliang Shrine) as an example, to explore the integration of 3D digital technology as a new sustainable approach. The results show that natural weathering and conventional techniques have caused irreversible information loss. Thus, adopting a three-dimensional digital perspective is crucial when considering the information preservation and revitalization of Han Dynasty stone reliefs. To achieve this, 3D digital models of representative stone reliefs, tomb chambers, and other sculptures from the Wuliang Ancestral Hall were established. These models provide new paths for accurately recording 3D information and better utilizing cultural heritage. Faced with the challenge of preserving historical heritage and its associated information, a workflow including 3D scanning, data collection and processing, 3D modeling, visualization, and information utilization is proposed. This approach offers new approaches for sustainable conservation and revitalization of Han Dynasty stone reliefs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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22 pages, 11973 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Study on the Spatial Layout of Hui-Style and Wu-Style Traditional Dwellings and Their Culture Based on Space Syntax

by Kejie Cen, Xiaoxiao Rao, Zhuoxun Mao, Xiangyong Zheng and Dier Dong

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12398; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612398 - 15 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1549

Abstract

Hui-style and Wu-style traditional dwellings adopt different connection modes, reflecting different spatial characteristics and resulting in different spatial layout characteristics. The rationale for this is related to the differences between the two schools of Confucianism culture: the Huizhou culture emphasizes the commercial application of Confucianism and pays more attention to the idea of commercialization, and the space exhibits a certain degree of freedom, while the Wuzhou culture emphasizes the official application of Confucianism and pays more attention to the idea of officialization, and the space is more systematic compared to Hui-style traditional dwellings, more profoundly articulating the traditional notions of propriety. Therefore, this paper attempts to explore the correspondence between the spatial layout of traditional dwellings and Confucianism culture through a comparative analysis of the spatial layout characteristics of the two schools of traditional dwellings, and to provide reference for similar studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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19 pages, 5563 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of Normative Energy Calculation beyond the Optimum Retrofit Solutions in Primary Design: A Case Study of Existing Buildings on a Campus

by Wenjing Li, Zhuoyang Sun, Mehdi Makvandi, Qingchang Chen, Jiayan Fu, Lei Gong and Philip F. Yuan

Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7094; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097094 - 23 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1961

Abstract

There are significant differences between expectations and fulfillment in the building delivery process. Many researchers have emphasized the need for design strategies that establish a direct correlation between design proposals and building performance. One of the main objectives is to support performance-driven primary design, which occurs before the design performance modeling (DPM) phase. To achieve this, a case study of retrofitting existing buildings on campus is presented. A normative calculation approach is used to identify the optimal combinations of a dozen retrofit strategies based on the Energy Performance Calculator (EPC) model. This approach reduces or eliminates the impact of parametric uncertainties on modeling assumptions and simplifies calculations, particularly in restrictive studies. These retrofit solutions involve structural and functional zoning renovation, meaning that disparity between expectations and fulfilments is considered, and a timely related information feedback route to architects is achieved. In the first step of the narrative development of the EPC model, EPC-Calib was used to find the optimal combination of input variables in the model that satisfies the desired target and complies with the problem constraints. Secondly, the retrofit study was implemented with EPC-TechOpt, and 16 retrofit solutions for three design performance models were examined based on the local climatic conditions, building features, and retrofit costs. Finally, design schemes were determined, and the cost-optimal mix of the measures was desired with a 40% energy saving. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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17 pages, 7756 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of 3D Scan Data: “Representation” of Korean Wooden Architectural Heritage

by Jae-Young Lee and Dai Whan An

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086932 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1415

Abstract

This study examines the characteristics of 3D scan data of Korean wooden architectural heritage structures and methods of applying the data from a representation perspective. For the preservation of its unique features, architectural heritage requires accurate representation in terms of investigation, research, and application. The representation of architectural heritage indicates a derivative reflecting the original structure and construction based on the intention of the builder. Thus, the recognition of architectural heritage varies according to the representation methods, which include text, drawings, plans, photos, and 3D scan data, each of which has different advantages and disadvantages. Compared with other models, 3D scan data provide a more accurate representation and carry value as digital data, while minimizing potential intentionality. Three-dimensional scan data can be collated with different types of information, such as building information modeling (BIM), with ease of updating. Therefore, the characteristics of 3D scan data should be identified and applied regarding representation in order to maximize data effectiveness. Three-dimensional scan data can be used most efficiently to create investigative reports representing architectural heritage. By adding the awareness of new technologies, Korean wooden architectural heritage can take advantage of accurate documentation and digital surveys in order to be preserved and recorded sustainably through digital towns and datasets. They can documented and represented through a technology-driven investigative report. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)

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