The Role of Physical-Visual Identity Architectural Elements of Historical Neighbourhoods as Factors for Their Sustainability

Abstract

Historic fabric of cities with ancient backgrounds possess high potentials and it must be reclaimed along with paying attention to flexible bases of localism. Urban dwellers, with wide requirements in recent times are seeking for satisfaction in such historical places. Urban historical areas should meet the public values within cultural frameworks and aesthetic experience. Every city consists of material and spiritual values, which are formed in a physical space as a precious asset, so identifying these values and making them into identity elements need a comprehensive plan based on the city’s cultural and historical background. Therefore, disparity in designing and building new buildings near old texture, makes disparity in city perspective and causes lack of identity. Methodology of this research based on qualitative analysis with case study of Imamzadeh Yahya in region 12 of Tehran metropolitan city ,for collecting information and data using library, literature review and interview with expert Then, the SWOT analysis matrix was used for data analysis and presentation of neighbourhoods as factors in heritage areas in Imamzadeh Yahya. This paper explores physical-visual elements related to city perspective and people’s perception. This paper is of relevance because the city perspective and people’s perception have a significant role around the quality component of historical urban fabric in making a desirable visual identity. Our case study is the surroundings of the historical neighbourhood of Imamzade Yahya in the Iranian capital of Tehran.