The Role of Users’ Socio-spatial Behaviour in Fostering Sustainable Retail District Projects in Bahrain
Afaf Ebrahim Mohamed, Najla Bent M. Alnaser Allani
This study examines users’ socio-spatial behaviour in promoting sustainable retail district projects in Bahrain. It evaluates how customer behaviour and movement impact the social sustainability of contemporary open-space shopping districts. By employing qualitative methods such as questionnaires, on-site observations, and expert interviews, this study investigates factors influencing consumer preferences and attractions to shopping districts. Findings reveal that the vitality of shopping districts is closely linked to meeting users’ needs, which fosters social sustainability. The study identifies key elements for a framework that can integrate social sustainability measures into shopping district designs. This framework aims to support stakeholders and designers in planning sustainable commercial projects in Bahrain, ensuring long-term success and vitality. Research highlights the importance of considering socio-spatial interactions in retail environments to enhance livability and user experience. By understanding these dynamics, designers can create retail districts that not only attract consumers but also contribute to the well-being and sustainability of the community. Insights gained from this study can guide the development of future retail projects, emphasizing the significance of socio-spatial behaviour in achieving sustainable urban design and planning.
1Key points
- Contribution to the field statement: -Social sustainability plays a great role in the vitality of shopping districts in Bahrain.
- -Employing a SWOT Analysis on the selected case studies can determine factors affecting the projects' social sustainability. -The quality of the spatial design and the comfort considerations in the space can contribute to the project's success. -The paper highlights factors that encourage the connection between people and space. -The findings contribute in developing a framework of criteria to successfully achieve socially sustainable retail projects.
- The goal of this research is to evaluate the social sustainability of commercial district designs by closely analysing consumer behaviour in Bahrain's modern open-space shopping areas. The findings emphasize the socio-spatial interaction and important role in the sustainability of shopping districts, which could assist stakeholders and designers in creating a framework that would promote the sustainable planning of Bahrain's new commercial projects and ensure its vitality.