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Urban Design Evolved: The Impact of Computational Tools and Data-Driven Approaches on Urban Design Practices and Civic Participation Gün, Ahmet
Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs Vol. 7 No. 1 (2023): Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs
Publisher : Alanya Üniversitesi

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.25034/ijcua.2023.v7n1-16

Abstract

In recent years, the changing pattern of human activities, increasing data regarding the spatial environment, and the possibility of collecting and processing this data allowed us to reconsider how we approach urban design, with a focus on a digital-oriented and data-driven perspective. In this study, we examine the evolution of urban design by analyzing the roles of designers and citizen empowerment. Our analysis includes a literature review and semi-structured interviews with computational design experts. In this sense, the literature is reviewed to investigate previous discussions and findings about the topic, and semi-structured interviews were carried out with seven computational design experts. The experts were selected by considering two criteria: (1) their experience with computational urban design subjects in practice and (2) their academic research background. This study concludes that technology-driven urban design solutions change designers' relationship with data, opening new avenues for objective, data-driven & data-informed decision-making. There are few differences between traditional and computational design practices regarding user empowerment and participatory design. Moreover, technology-driven urban design tools and methods are still in their early stages and are rarely used in actual projects.
Mosque for All, Socio-Spatial Inclusion in Mosque Architecture: The Case of Türkiye Gün, Ahmet
Journal of Islamic Architecture Vol 8, No 3 (2025): Journal of Islamic Architecture
Publisher : Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Maliki Malang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18860/jia.v8i3.27138

Abstract

Today, the design and management of the mosque are subject to criticism in many ways, like not being responsive to the needs of different user groups and causing socio-spatial justice problems between genders and generations. This study examines the extent to which mosques provide socio-spatial inclusion by analyzing problems experienced in mosques, user satisfaction, and user perceptions of the socio-spatial inclusiveness of mosques. Methodologically, an online survey was conducted with 521 participants living in Türkiye. In addition, a workshop will be held with 17 participants who are currently involved in research on mosque design to develop proposals at a strategic level to address the identified issues. This study reveals that there are critical socio-spatial problems faced by users in mosques: (1) problems of representation inequality in decision-making about the design and management of mosques (the gaps of representation equality), (2) limited responsiveness to users' spatial expectations due to the neglect of the needs of important stakeholders such as women, children and youth in society (3). Only a very limited group of users (18.4%) are satisfied with the spatial experience in mosques. Additionally, almost one-third of the respondents (30.1%) perceive mosques as 'middle-aged or elderly male-dedicated spaces,' with this perception being more prevalent among women and young people. At the end of the study, we discuss the socio-spatial dimensions that will form the basis for a “Mosque for All”.
Exploring The “Living Mosque”: Usage Patterns, User Preferences, and Functional Expectations in Mosque Architecture Gün, Ahmet
Journal of Islamic Architecture Vol 8, No 4 (2025): Journal of Islamic Architecture (ISSUE IN PROGRESS)
Publisher : Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Maliki Malang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18860/jia.v8i4.27627

Abstract

Mosque spaces and facilities traditionally serve as places where Muslim communities can pray, gather, and socialize. However, the functional role of the mosque in social life has begun to decline. This study addresses the question: How are mosques currently used, and to what extent do these spaces meet users' expectations? To explore this, an online survey was conducted with 521 participants from Türkiye, examining their usage patterns, preferences, and functional expectations regarding mosque experiences. Additionally, a workshop was conducted to develop strategic-level proposals on the identified issues. The findings highlight a disjuncture between how mosques are currently used and their potential utilization. The study also identifies discrepancies between the priorities of academia and architectural media compared to those of the general community, as well as gaps between the socio-spatial functions offered by mosques and those desired by the public. Notably, only 18.2% of respondents feel that mosques adequately meet their functional needs. Moreover, mosque usage patterns, as well as functional expectations, were found to vary significantly based on users' gender, age, and education levels. The public wishes to experience the mosques as the center of education, culture, and social life. This study contributes to the field by introducing the "Living Mosque" concept, providing a comprehensive analysis of mosque usage and perceptions in Türkiye, and shedding light on the gaps between existing practices and user expectations. It also proposes strategic-level solutions for enhancing mosque facilities, providing valuable insights for future research, and practical improvements in mosque design and management