Structural Analysis of Factors Influencing the Creative Consumption of Urban Space by Women (Case Study: Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz)
Subject Areas : Sustainable DevelopmentLena dorniani 1 , Ali Shakoor 2 * , Alireza Abdollahzadeh Fard 3
1 - PhD Candidate, Department of Urban Planning, Science and Research Branch - Qeshm International Educational Center, Islamic Azad University, Qeshm, Iran.
2 - Professor, Department of Human Geography, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran.
3 - Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Safashahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Safashahr, Iran
Keywords: Space, Women, Creative urban spaces, Sustainable urban development, Behesht Boulevard Shiraz.,
Abstract :
present study was conducted with the aim of analyzing the factors influencing the creative consumption of urban space by women in Behesht Boulevard, District 6, Shiraz. Considering the research objectives and the components under investigation, the research is of an applied type and its method is descriptive-analytical. Theoretical data were collected using a documentary method, while empirical data were gathered through a survey-based Delphi technique. The statistical population consisted of 30 experts and specialists selected through a purposive or judgmental sampling. A total of 31 drivers, structured in 4 main dimensions, were processed using structural cross-impact analysis within the MICMAC software. the findings from the cross-impact analysis indicate a complex and intertwined distribution of drivers in terms of their influence and susceptibility. the clustering system of the drivers shows a concentration in a dual-cluster system. Among the 31 driving forces, the following key factors had the highest direct impact on the mentioned boulevard: designing safe spaces for women, attracting women's participation in decision-making, creating multi-purpose social spaces, raising awareness about women's rights, supporting women's voluntary activities, developing local social groups, providing job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors, organizing cultural activities specifically for women, ensuring easy access to public spaces, designing child-friendly public spaces, promoting a culture of using art in public spaces, providing accessible health and welfare facilities, and establishing cultural and artistic learning environments.
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Journal of Land Use and Sustainable Development Summer 2025. Vol 2. Issue 2
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Original Research Paper
Structural Analysis of Factors Influencing the Creative Consumption of Urban Space by Women (Case Study: Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz)
Lena Dorniani: PhD Candidate, Department of Urban Planning, Science and Research Branch - Qeshm International Educational Center, Islamic Azad University, Qeshm, Iran.
Ali Shakoor1: Professor, Department of Human Geography, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran.
Alireza Abdollahzadeh Fard: Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Safashahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Safashahr, Iran.
[1] Corresponding author: Ali Shakoor Email: alishakoor52@yahoo.com Tel: +989173182528
Citation: Dorniani, L., Shakoor, A., & Abdollahzadeh Fard, A. (2025). Structural Analysis of Factors Influencing the Creative Consumption of Urban Space by Women (Case Study: Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz). Journal of Land Use and Sustainable Development, 2(2), 11-26. https://doi.org/10.82173/juep.2025.1215264
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Abstract | A R T I C L E I N F O |
The creative consumption of space by women refers to the innovative, multi-purpose, and experience-oriented use of urban spaces. in this regard, the present study was conducted with the aim of analyzing the factors influencing the creative consumption of urban space by women in Behesht Boulevard, District 6, Shiraz. Considering the research objectives and the components under investigation, the research is of an applied type and its method is descriptive-analytical. Theoretical data were collected using a documentary method, while empirical data were gathered through a survey-based Delphi technique. The statistical population consisted of 30 experts and specialists selected through a purposive or judgmental sampling. A total of 31 drivers, structured in 4 main dimensions, were processed using structural cross-impact analysis within the MICMAC software. the findings from the cross-impact analysis indicate a complex and intertwined distribution of drivers in terms of their influence and susceptibility. the clustering system of the drivers shows a concentration in a dual-cluster system. Among the 31 driving forces, the following key factors had the highest direct impact on the mentioned boulevard: designing safe spaces for women, attracting women's participation in decision-making, creating multi-purpose social spaces, raising awareness about women's rights, supporting women's voluntary activities, developing local social groups, providing job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors, organizing cultural activities specifically for women, ensuring easy access to public spaces, designing child-friendly public spaces, promoting a culture of using art in public spaces, providing accessible health and welfare facilities, and establishing cultural and artistic learning environments. | Received: 2025/07/23 Accepted: 2025/08/22 PP: 11-26
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Keywords: Space, Women, Creative urban spaces, Sustainable urban development, Behesht Boulevard Shiraz. |
Introduction
Urban spaces, as key platforms for social, cultural, and creative interactions, play a fundamental role in the reproduction of identity and the strengthening of social participation. A significant aspect of this role is the creative consumption of urban spaces by women, which is interdisciplinary in nature and is examined in conjunction with fields such as urban sociology, gender studies, urban planning, and the creative economy. In recent decades, the growth of human-centered approaches in urban planning and an emphasis on spatial justice have doubled the necessity of studying how women utilize public and semi-public spaces (UN-Habitat, 2020). Women are not merely passive users but are active agents in redefining the meanings and functions of urban spaces (Massey, 1994); a role that manifests in the form of "creative consumption," meaning the innovative, multi-purpose, and experience-based utilization of spaces whose primary function was originally different (Lefebvre, 1991; Florida, 2019).
However, women’s creative consumption of space, whether in the form of voluntary activities such as mobile art workshops or social activities like cultural gatherings, faces numerous obstacles and limitations (Kern, 2020). Gender inequalities, physical shortcomings, and a lack of inclusive design restrict women's active participation in public spaces (Beebeejaun, 2017). International reports also indicate that in many cities, women participate less in creative activities in public spaces due to a lack of security and suitable access (UN-Habitat, 2020). These limitations not only reduce women's opportunities for self-expression and symbolic resistance but also weaken cities' capacity for cultural development and the expansion of the creative economy.
The lack of physical infrastructure such as suitable street furniture, adequate lighting, and unimpeded paths is a serious obstacle to women's innovative activities (Young, 1980). Furthermore, the fear of street harassment and social judgment reduces their voluntary presence in creative activities (Pain, 2001). A lack of attention to the sociability of spaces in urban design (Gehl, 2010) and the absence of social and symbolic access through welcoming signs (Fenster, 2005) weaken women's sense of belonging to these spaces. Similarly, inappropriate timing of activities and a lack of safe hours limit women's mobility and their creative consumption of space (Vázquez, 2021). These obstacles, in addition to their direct impact on the quality of women's lives, prevent the realization of the "right to the city," a concept that emphasizes the necessity of their active participation in the production of space (Lefebvre, 1996). In contrast, the experience of cities like Melbourne shows that a women-centered design and attention to their specific needs can significantly enhance the creative consumption of space (Vázquez, 2021). The absence of such frameworks in many cities, including those in Iran, highlights a significant research gap (UNESCO, 2023).
Women's lived experience in the city has always been influenced by social and cultural structures, especially in more traditional societies where male-centric designs, a lack of safe spaces, and time constraints have reduced the diversity and sustainability of patterns of creative space consumption. Previous studies show that equal access and a sense of security are fundamental prerequisites for women's creative and active presence in urban spaces (Whitzman et al., 2013). In recent years, the emergence of multi-functional spaces such as cafés, cinema-cafés, handicraft markets, pedestrian-friendly streets, and street cultural events has created new capacities for redefining women's role in space consumption (Zukin, 1995). These spaces can simultaneously provide social, cultural, and economic functions for women and serve as a platform for the creation of new urban identities. Nevertheless, in many cities in Iran—including Shiraz a deep and systematic study of the creative consumption of space by women, especially in high-traffic, high-potential areas like important streets and boulevards, remains neglected (Jacobs, 1991; Montgomery, 1998).
Behesht Boulevard in Shiraz, due to its unique combination of residential, commercial, recreational, and cultural uses, is considered a dynamic platform for the formation of this type of creative consumption. The presence of cafés, restaurants, green spaces, shopping centers, and special gathering spots for women, such as cinema-cafés and exclusive restaurants, has created conditions where women's presence and social interactions in this urban corridor are accompanied by greater quality and diversity. Currently, although Behesht Boulevard has high potential in terms of urban facilities and attractions, the lack of a clear strategic framework to guide creative consumption by women has meant that some capacities have not been actualized. These challenges include the weakness in linking various uses, a lack of flexible multi-purpose spaces, limitations in planning women-centered social events, and a lack of coordination between urban management and local businesses.
Therefore, a structural analysis of the factors influencing the creative consumption of urban space by women on Behesht Boulevard is essential for achieving effective strategies to improve the quality of urban experience and realize sustainable social development. This analysis can, while identifying existing strengths and weaknesses, provide a foundation for designing spatial, managerial, and cultural interventions that are appropriate for women's needs and enhance their role in urban life. In line with this, the present study aims to identify and investigate the factors influencing the state of creative consumption of urban spaces on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz, using a structural analysis method. In line with this goal, the main research question is:
- What are the key factors influencing the state of creative consumption of urban spaces on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz?
Literature Review
The gendered dimensions of public spaces, especially in the 21st century, have become a central area of interdisciplinary research. A wide range of studies and social activism has analyzed its ideological, physical, and methodological aspects from the perspective of various disciplines such as geography, anthropology, sociology, literature, architecture, history, and the interdisciplinary fields of urban and rural studies (Gqola et al., 2024).
A review of the existing literature shows that women in urban settings often face systemic limitations in accessing spaces and urban resources. This situation reproduces various forms of socio-spatial deprivation for them (Grundström & Molina, 2012). The origin of these deprivations can be sought in a set of structural and cultural factors, including deeply ingrained gender norms, unequal allocation of public facilities and infrastructure, limited presence in urban decision-making and planning processes, insufficient safety interventions, and the persistence of social stereotypes that lead to the entrenchment and reproduction of women's vulnerability (Dubey et al., 2025).
Empirical evidence and comparative studies have shown that urban spaces designed and managed with the effective and decision-making participation of women have not only helped improve their individual and collective creativity but have also provided an efficient platform for strengthening cultural and social interactions. Accordingly, integrating women's perspectives and needs into various stages of urban design and planning, in addition to expanding their access to public spaces, can significantly enhance the capacity for creative and multi-layered use of these spaces. Nevertheless, the dominance of patriarchal structures continues to play a role in determining the extent and quality of women's access to public spaces, and in many contexts, it limits or conditions their entry and presence based on pre-existing gender norms, including prescriptive dress codes and behavioral patterns (Mukwidigwi and Naidu, 2024).
The creative consumption of urban spaces by women is heavily influenced by a set of behavioral, environmental, and social factors (Taghizadeh, 2022). Recent research findings indicate that, on average, women show less inclination to be in public spaces for recreation and leisure. This phenomenon is primarily due to a sense of insecurity and fear of crime in urban environments, which ultimately prevents their active participation in these spaces (Sundquist et al., 2011). Therefore, public spaces should be designed to not only ensure women's physical and psychological safety but also enhance their sense of comfort and belonging (Polko and Kimic, 2022).
In this context, Dutsev (2018) considers the creative consumption of urban spaces to be a process through which individuals, by utilizing artistic interactions and play, create a dynamic and multi-layered relationship with their surroundings. This relationship leads to the integration of art, architecture, and consumer culture into the urban lived experience (Dutsev, 2018). Similarly, Gwiaździński et al. (2020) define this concept as including the use of technology and artistic strategies such as visual mapping to increase social interactions, strengthen cultural identity, and transform streets into vibrant platforms that, while creating human connections, help preserve the collective memory in smart cities (Gwiaździński et al., 2020).
One of the most important prerequisites for the realization of women's creative consumption of urban spaces is the provision of physical and psychological security. Field experiences show that a sense of security, especially in public spaces, is a key factor in determining the extent of women's presence and participation. In many cities, women face threats such as violence, street harassment, and discrimination, which often leads to their "self-exclusion" from public spaces (Mukwidigwi and Naidu, 2024). Therefore, urban design must respond to women's security needs with a multi-dimensional approach; an approach that, in addition to physical considerations, also includes social and cultural interventions to allow for the free and unrestricted use of space. In this regard, cultural developments and changes in social attitudes can play a significant role in enhancing security and increasing women's tendency to creatively utilize public spaces (Rampaul, 2022).
Alongside security, the quality and nature of public space design also impacts women's patterns of creative consumption. In many cities, traditional, male-centric designs have shaped spaces that do not meet the needs of women. For example, spaces primarily planned for male physical activities may not have sufficient appeal for women or may even lead to their unintentional exclusion from the process of use (Malhotra et al., 2023).
Additionally, the extent and quality of women's participation in urban decision-making and planning processes is a determining factor in enhancing the creative consumption of public spaces. When women are excluded from the stages of space formulation, design, and management a situation common in many developing countries the final design will often lack the necessary flexibility to meet their diverse needs. Active and structured participation of women in these processes can provide a platform for a more accurate identification of their needs and ultimately lead to the creation of spaces that enrich their lived experience and solidify their presence at the heart of urban life (Mukwidigwi and Naidu, 2024).
The creation of diverse, safe, and user-friendly spaces that simultaneously host cultural and social programs tailored to the specific needs of women is considered one of the most important strategies for increasing their presence in urban settings. This will be more effective if, at the same time, the improvement of women's social and economic status is also a priority in urban policies. This is because women's social standing in many societies is shaped by patriarchal structures, and this can limit their effective utilization of urban spaces. The realization of such goals requires coordinated cooperation among government agencies, urban designers, and women themselves. This collaboration can lead to the creation of spaces that not only serve as a ground for women's meaningful social interactions but also provide a platform for the expression of their creativity and self. Such an approach, in addition to enhancing the quality of life for women, can, in the long term, contribute to the sustainable and resilient development of cities (Sadeghi et al., 2023).
The study of women’s presence patterns and activities in urban spaces can be categorized into several analytical approaches: gender equality, sociological and civic, behavioral, and psychological. Although many previous studies have focused on the typology, form, function, and dimensions of public spaces, they have often paid less attention to the gendered experience and its representation in analyses. The typology of public spaces has continuously evolved, influenced by changes in lifestyle, cultural shifts, and citizens' new attitudes. However, while dimensions of policy, environment, economics, and civic culture have been widely considered in urban planning studies, specific research and policies related to the connection between women and public spaces remain limited and fragmented (Sadeghi et al., 2023).
From a theoretical perspective, a diverse range of analytical frameworks regarding gender and public spaces has been proposed. For example, the feminist theory of space, developed by Jane Jacobs and Dorothy Smith, emphasizes the importance of women’s presence in public spaces and the role of urban design in shaping their experience. On the other hand, postcolonial feminist theories, proposed by Mohanty and Spivak, analyze the power relations and the effects of colonialism and racism on women's experiences in public spaces (Das, 2015). This approach argues that women’s experiences in urban contexts are often shaped within the framework of dominant forces whether gender-based, racial, or colonial and that these dimensions must be considered when rethinking spatial design. Similarly, the theory of the production of space, as narrated by Henri Lefebvre, considers urban spaces to be a construct of social, economic, and political processes. These spaces are not produced passively, but rather through a dynamic interaction with structural forces and individual and collective actions.
Table 1. Comparison of Approaches and Theories Related to Gender and Public Spaces
Approach / Theory | Key Thinkers or Founders | Main Focus Areas | Conceptual Emphasis | Consequence for Urban Design and Planning |
Gender Equality Approach | - | Elimination of structural discrimination, creation of equal opportunities | Focus on equal rights and universal access | Reform of urban policies and laws for equitable access to spaces for women |
Sociological and Civic Approach | - | The role of space in the reproduction of social relations | Analysis of the role of social networks and civic participation | Strengthening women's participation in the management and supervision of urban spaces |
Behavioral Approach | - | Study of women's patterns of use and interaction with space | Examination of the influence of physical and social factors on spatial behavior | Design of spaces that align with women's movement and behavioral patterns |
Psychological Approach | - | Women's perception, sense of security, and belonging to space | The influence of subjective components on the use of space | Creation of safe, pleasant spaces with a positive social identity |
Feminist Theory of Space | Jane Jacobs, Dorothy Smith | The importance of women's presence in public spaces | The connection between urban design and the gendered experience | Participatory and women-centered design of public spaces |
Postcolonial Feminist Theory | Chandra Mohanty, Gayatri Spivak | The impact of colonialism and racism on women's experiences | Power relations and dominance in space | Inclusion of cultural, ethnic, and historical dimensions in urban design |
Theory of the Production of Space | Henri Lefebvre | Space as a social construct | The interaction of economic, political, and cultural forces in the production of space | Re-evaluation of the processes of space production and allocation in a participatory manner |
Source: Library studies by the authors, 2025
Haji Ahmadi Hamadani et al. (2018) in an article, examined the factors influencing the formation of women's mental image to make it possible to create a desirable environment from the perspective of this social group, and they evaluated their spatial preferences in the city of Tehran. The results of this research indicate that the choice of a place evaluated as desirable through the lens of women's mental image is related to shared meanings connected with the concepts of freedom, justice, security, place status, having a socio-cultural identity, historical identity, beauty, being stylish and full of details, quiet and cozy, having privacy while being vast, greenery, a happy spirit, and health.
Hatami-Nezhad et al. (2020) in an article, analyzed the factors influencing the vitality of future urban spaces for women's participation. The results of this research showed that the indices of safety and security, accessibility, diversity and attractiveness, social justice, space efficiency, environmental quality, comfort and convenience, social interaction, and sense of place are effective on the vitality of future urban spaces for the active presence of women. Among the mentioned indices, space efficiency, diversity and attractiveness, and environmental quality had the most impact on women's presence in future urban spaces. The pattern presented in this research can be used as a model to measure the vitality of future urban spaces for the active presence of women in the country's cities.
Sarvari (2021) in an article, explained the creative design process of urban space. The results of this research showed that the complexity and multiplicity of urban space layers, the diversity of user groups, the abundance of visual elements, and the influence of other disciplines involved in creating and enhancing the qualities of urban space are the main factors in the complexity of creativity in urban space design. The creative urban space design process is different from other creative design methods and can be performed through five main stages: familiarity, focus, latency, emergence, and evaluation.
Dabbaghi and Bahari (2024) in an article with an emphasis on the importance of urban public spaces for women, studied the most important priorities and needs of women in the public spaces of the cultural center (Farhangsara) and the women's center (Shahrbanoo) in Tehran. The findings of this research showed that the most important needs of women in public spaces can be defined in three main categories: social (women's insecurity, lack of suitable laws, institutionalized gender inequality, and women's neglected needs in urban design), a physical dimension (inefficient physical infrastructures, crime-inducing urban infrastructures, and gender differences in perception of space), and a psychological dimension (urban design and identity redefinition, urban design and the encouragement of a sense of life, and women's disappointment with urban planning).
Rampaul et al. (2022) in an article, examined the use of gender mainstreaming in the design of urban spaces to promote inclusive cities in the Warwick urban market in Durban, South Africa. The results of this research show that women's experience and perception of urban spaces have significant differences from those of men, and these differences should be considered in the process of planning and developing urban spaces. Analyses have shown that women's participation in decision-making and the application of a "gender mainstreaming" approach can lead to the creation of more inclusive and safer urban public spaces for everyone. Desirable design and the creation of social dialogues in the community are among the proposed solutions for achieving inclusive cities.
Malhotra et al. (2023) in an article titled "From Exclusion to Belonging: Assessing Women's Perception of Public Open Spaces," re-examined women's experience and perception of open urban public spaces. The findings of this research showed that women's perception and experience of open public spaces are affected by a complex interaction of social, cultural, and environmental factors. Social norms and safety-related concerns play a determining role in how women use these spaces. The design and management of the physical environment also directly impact women's sense of comfort and belonging to these places. Also, women's interaction with public spaces shapes their sense of place and social identity. Finally, this research, by providing strategic suggestions, emphasizes the necessity of the inclusive design and management of these spaces to strengthen gender equality and social inclusion.
Mukwidigwi & Naidu (2024) in an article, examined gender inequalities in urban spaces and their consequences on the exclusion of women from public arenas in South Africa. The results of this research show that women, due to negative experiences and fear of being victimized, turn to "self-exclusion" from public spaces. This behavior leads to a limitation in the realization of the right to the city for them. Also, the intersecting hierarchies of gender, race, age, and nationality have led to the reproduction of intersecting exclusions and the creation of multiple barriers to accessing public spaces. These factors, along with spatial and cultural limitations, violate women's embodied right to the city.
The Area under Study
Behesht Boulevard, one of Shiraz's most popular areas, is located in Municipal District 6, at the heart of Ma'aliabad Boulevard. The boulevard is bordered by Shiraz's ring road to the north, Shahid Kabar Street, Behesht Boulevard, and Chamran 50th Street to the east, and Shahid Kabar Square to the south.
Its strategic location and proximity to major boulevards like Chamran and other key highways allow for quick access to other parts of the city. The cooler climate compared to other parts of Shiraz and its calm, pleasant scenery make it highly attractive for residents. The presence of metro stations (Line 1) and numerous bus routes has made commuting easy. The neighborhood's luxurious villas and modern apartments are considered an excellent option for investment and high-quality living. Behesht Boulevard is also known as a popular hub for cinemas, cafés, and diverse restaurants, especially those with dedicated spaces for women (Fig. 1).
District 6 of Shiraz metropolis |
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Fig 1. Geographical location of Behesht Boulevard in District 6 of Shiraz metropolis
Methodology
This study used a futures research approach to identify and analyze the most important factors influencing the creative consumption of urban spaces on Behesht Boulevard, located in District 6 of Shiraz. The research is applied in its objective and, from a methodological standpoint, combines documentary and survey methods with an analytical-exploratory approach based on modern futures research techniques.
To identify key obstacles and variables, the researchers first reviewed existing documents and sources. Subsequently, data was gathered through a survey using the Delphi technique. The study used a purposive or judgmental sampling method for selecting the Delphi panel members, as the goal was not to generalize the results to a larger population. The criteria for selecting experts included theoretical mastery of the subject, practical experience in the related field, a willingness and ability to participate actively, and accessibility.
An important point in determining the number of experts was ensuring a complete coverage of different viewpoints and specialized diversity. Accordingly, the statistical population for the structural analysis section consisted of 14 to 30 experts and specialists, a range consistent with conventional standards in similar studies (Akbari et al., 2020: 289). Based on these criteria, a total of 30 experts and specialists in the fields of urban planning, urban design, and architecture were ultimately selected to participate in the research process.
The information was processed using Structural Cross-Impact Analysis (MICMAC) software. Through the Delphi method, 31 initial drivers were identified across four dimensions: economic, socio-cultural, infrastructure, and health and welfare (Table 2).
Table 2. Identified Initial Factors
Dimension | Drivers | Operational Definition |
|---|---|---|
Economic | Var01. Presence of local women's markets | Facilitating access to markets for women to sell local and handmade products. |
Var02. Presence of commercial spaces for rent at low cost | Supporting female entrepreneurs to access suitable business spaces. | |
Var03. Allocation of budget for creative projects | Providing funding and micro-loans for female artists and entrepreneurs. | |
Var04. Holding women's business exhibitions | Creating opportunities for women to display their products and skills. | |
Var05. Offering tax deductions and economic incentives | Providing economic support for women who use urban spaces creatively. | |
Var06. Presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors | Facilitating the employment of women in creativity-related fields. | |
Socio-cultural | Var07. Promotion of public training programs | Holding public training courses to strengthen women's skills in using urban spaces. |
Var08. Holding cultural activities specifically for women | Organizing festivals and cultural events to increase women's participation in urban spaces. | |
Var09. Development of local social groups | The existence of local groups to encourage women's creative use of public spaces. | |
Var10. Creation of multi-purpose social spaces | Designing flexible spaces for various social uses by women. | |
Var11. Design of safe spaces for women | Supervision and increased security to improve women's access to public spaces. | |
Var12. Presence of spaces dedicated to women's sports activities | Designing spaces dedicated to women's sports in public areas. | |
Var13. Holding accessible cultural and artistic programs | Regularly holding cultural programs for women. | |
Var14. Attracting women's participation in decision-making | The presence of women on local committees and in urban planning. | |
Var15. Promotion of a culture of using art in public spaces | Using public art that encourages women to participate in creative activities. | |
Var16. Presence of cultural and artistic learning environments | The existence of public artistic and cultural spaces for women. | |
Var17. Presence of workshop spaces for female artists | Spaces for the existence and display of women's art in public spaces. | |
Var18. Promoting awareness about women's rights | Increasing public awareness about the role of women in society. | |
Var19. Support for women's voluntary activities | Encouraging women to participate in social activities. | |
Infrastructure | Var20. Design of public spaces suitable for children | Designing urban spaces that women can use with their children. |
Var21. Better lighting in urban spaces | Improving lighting on streets and in public spaces to create a sense of security. | |
Var22. Access to public transportation suitable for women | Providing special facilities for women in public transportation. | |
Var23. Easy access to public spaces | Designing accessible public spaces for women with different needs. | |
Var24. Presence of suitable rest areas for women | The presence of benches and suitable resting places on streets and in parks. | |
Var25. Presence of parking spaces dedicated to women | Secure parking spaces close to entrances for women's use. | |
Var26. Presence of accessible educational centers | The existence of educational centers that women can benefit from. | |
Health and Welfare | Var27. Presence of accessible health and welfare facilities | Easy access to restrooms and welfare facilities in urban spaces. |
Var28. Provision of medical services near public spaces | Providing medical and healthcare services in urban areas where women are more present. | |
Var29. Presence of special spaces for mothers | Suitable spaces for mothers with children in public areas. | |
Var30. Presence of large spaces for women's group activities | The existence of large spaces for women's group activities like yoga and meditation. | |
Var31. Design and development of green spaces for women's use | The design and development of green spaces for women's use that provide opportunities for recreation and relaxation. |
Source: Dabbaghi & Bahari, 2024; Scarponi et al., 2023; Malhotra & Aulakh, 2023; Sadeghi et al., 2023; Dubey et al., 2025; Gargiulo et al., 2020.
Results and discussion
Discussion and Presentation of Findings
Overall analysis of the system environment: Table (3) shows the outcome of the cross-impacts of 31 effective factors on the status of the creative consumption of urban space by women in Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz, based on the formation of a 31x31 matrix. The results of this table indicate a repetition count of 2 and a fill rate of 93.03%, which shows that the selected factors had a great influence on each other. Out of a total of 894 evaluable relationships in the matrix, 67 relationships have a value of zero; this amount means that the driver factors did not influence each other or were not influenced by each other. 273 relationships with a value of one have a weak influence on each other, and 365 relationships with a value of two have relatively strong influential relationships. Additionally, 256 relationships have a value of three, and this means that the relationships between the key factors were very great and have a high degree of influence and susceptibility.
Table 3. Initial analysis of matrix data and cross-impacts of drivers
Index | Matrix size | Repetition count | Number of zeros | Number of ones | Number of twos | Number of threes | Total | Fill rate |
Value | 31 | 2 | 67 | 273 | 365 | 256 | 894 | 93.03% |
The matrix of this study, based on statistical factors with 2 rotations, has a 100% desirability and optimization, which indicates a high validity of the questionnaire and its responses (Table 4).
Table 4. Matrix desirability and optimization degree
Susceptibility | Influence | Rotation |
98% | 99% | 1 |
99% | 100% | 2 |
Evaluation of the influence and susceptibility plane of effective factors on the status of the creative consumption of urban space by women in Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz
The distribution pattern of the effective factors on the status of the creative consumption of urban space by women in Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz, on the scatter plot indicates the level of stability or instability of the system. In the structural cross-impact analysis method with MICMAC software, there are a total of two general distribution models that are known as stable and unstable systems. In the stable system model, the distribution of variables is L-shaped; in this model, some factors have high influence and some have high susceptibility; but in unstable systems, the situation is more complex; in this system, the driving forces are scattered around the diagonal axis of the plane and in most cases are in an intermediate state of influence and susceptibility, which makes it difficult to identify key factors (Fig. 2 & 3).
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Fig 2. Unstable system | Fig 3. Stable system |
Figure (4) shows the scatter pattern of the effective factors on the status of the creative consumption of urban space by women in Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz. This scatter pattern generally indicates the status of an unstable system. The studied factors, with the exception of a few drivers that have a high influence on the system, are generally established in a situation of similar influence in the influential factors section.
Fig 4. Scatter of effective factors on the creative consumption of urban space by women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz
Table 5. The Level of Direct and Indirect Effects of Factors on Each Other
Rank | Direct Effects | Influence | Indirect Effects | Susceptibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Factor | Factor | |||
1 | Design of safe spaces for women | 426 | Development of local social groups | 441 |
2 | Attracting women's participation in decision-making | 439 | Promotion of a culture of using art in public spaces | 420 |
3 | Creation of multi-purpose social spaces | 437 | Promoting awareness about women's rights | 413 |
4 | Promoting awareness about women's rights | 421 | Holding cultural activities specifically for women | 393 |
5 | Support for women's voluntary activities | 412 | Presence of cultural and artistic learning environments | 387 |
6 | Development of local social groups | 408 | Design of public spaces suitable for children | 392 |
7 | Presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors | 395 | Design and development of green spaces for women's use | 388 |
8 | Holding cultural activities specifically for women | 394 | Presence of large spaces for women's group activities | 384 |
9 | Easy access to public spaces | 393 | Presence of parking spaces dedicated to women | 379 |
10 | Design of public spaces suitable for children | 394 | Attracting women's participation in decision-making | 369 |
11 | Promotion of a culture of using art in public spaces | 392 | Presence of accessible educational centers | 367 |
12 | Presence of accessible health and welfare facilities | 392 | Presence of accessible health and welfare facilities | 363 |
13 | Presence of cultural and artistic learning environments | 389 | Promotion of public training programs | 357 |
14 | Design and development of green spaces for women's use | 337 | Presence of workshop spaces for female artists | 353 |
15 | Presence of workshop spaces for female artists | 331 | Presence of spaces dedicated to women's sports activities | 354 |
16 | Promotion of public training programs | 328 | Creation of multi-purpose social spaces | 349 |
17 | Presence of parking spaces dedicated to women | 322 | Presence of suitable rest areas for women | 345 |
18 | Presence of large spaces for women's group activities | 307 | Support for women's voluntary activities | 328 |
19 | Offering tax deductions and economic incentives | 300 | Presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors | 305 |
20 | Presence of accessible educational centers | 293 | Holding women's business exhibitions | 302 |
21 | Holding women's business exhibitions | 278 | Easy access to public spaces | 300 |
22 | Presence of local women's markets | 274 | Presence of local women's markets | 293 |
23 | Presence of spaces dedicated to women's sports activities | 272 | Design of safe spaces for women | 290 |
24 | Presence of commercial spaces for rent at low cost | 266 | Provision of medical services near public spaces | 268 |
25 | Access to public transportation suitable for women | 256 | Presence of commercial spaces for rent at low cost | 260 |
26 | Allocation of budget for creative projects | 254 | Presence of special spaces for mothers | 259 |
27 | Better lighting in urban spaces | 239 | Better lighting in urban spaces | 245 |
28 | Provision of medical services near public spaces | 221 | Holding accessible cultural and artistic programs | 227 |
29 | Presence of special spaces for mothers | 221 | Offering tax deductions and economic incentives | 214 |
30 | Holding accessible cultural and artistic programs | 212 | Allocation of budget for creative projects | 204 |
31 | Presence of suitable rest areas for women | 204 | Access to public transportation suitable for women | 175 |
Clustering of Factors Influencing the Creative Consumption of Urban Space by Women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz
Influential Factors: This category represents the most critical and strategically important factors for the quality of women's creative consumption of urban space on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz. These factors include easy access to public spaces, design of safe spaces for women, creation of multi-purpose social spaces, support for women's voluntary activities, creation of special cultural spaces for women, and holding cultural activities specifically for women (Table 6). These factors have the highest influence and the lowest susceptibility and, as the most critical drivers, the system's overall status and changes depend on their performance. Influential factors are considered system inputs and are not controllable by the system itself because they are external to it and act as stable factors.
Dual Factors: These factors act simultaneously as both susceptible and influential. A total of 11 factors influencing the creative consumption of urban space by women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz, are dual factors, being both influential and susceptible. As seen in Table 5, they include: presence of social support and counseling centers for women, presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors, presence of cultural and artistic learning environments, promotion of public training programs, holding cultural events in open spaces, presence of suitable rest areas for women, presence of workshop spaces for female artists, design and development of green spaces for women's use, design of public spaces suitable for children, development of local social groups, and promotion of a culture of using art in public spaces. Any change in these drivers can affect the system's stability. These forces are further divided into two categories: risk factors and target factors, as follows:
Risk Factors: Risk factors have a very high capacity to become key players in the system because, due to their unstable nature, they have the potential to become a point of system inertia. The factors presence of commercial spaces for rent at low cost and design and development of green spaces for women's use are located in this area.
Target Factors: No drivers are located in this area. This driver is more susceptible than it is influential and can be identified and introduced as a result of the system's evolution with an acceptable degree of certainty. By manipulating this driver, changes and evolution of the system can be achieved in the desired direction. Therefore, rather than displaying a predetermined outcome, it represents possible goals within the system.
Susceptible Factors: Factors in this area have low influence and very high susceptibility in the system, and they are affected by the evolution of the influential factors. Susceptible factors are very sensitive and are considered system outputs. The factors holding women's business exhibitions, presence of large spaces for women's group activities, presence of accessible health and welfare facilities, and presence of accessible educational centers are located in this area.
Independent Factors: The factors access to suitable public transportation for women, holding accessible cultural and artistic programs, presence of local women's markets, allocation of budget for creative projects, presence of special spaces for mothers, provision of medical services near public spaces, presence of commercial spaces for rent at low cost, training of entrepreneurship skills for women, and better lighting in urban spaces are independent and isolated factors of the system. These effective forces are neither significantly influenced by other system factors nor do they have much effect on them, or they are ineffective. They have little connection with the system because they neither stop the main driver nor cause a factor in the system to evolve and progress.
"Secondary Leverage" Factors: Although these drivers are completely independent, they are more influential than susceptible. They are located in the southwest part of the diagram and above the diagonal line and can be used as measurement points and as a criterion. No factor is located in this area.
"Regulatory" Factors: These drivers are located near the center of gravity of the diagram. They can act successively as "secondary leverage," "weak targets," and "secondary risk factors." The factor presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors is located in this area.
Table 6. Clustering of Influential Factors on the Status of Women's Creative Consumption of Urban Space on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz
Factor Type | Factors |
Influential | Easy access to public spaces, design of safe spaces for women, creation of multi-purpose social spaces, support for women's voluntary activities, creation of special cultural spaces for women, and holding cultural activities specifically for women. |
Dual | Presence of social support and counseling centers for women, presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors, presence of cultural and artistic learning environments, promotion of public training programs, holding cultural events in open spaces, presence of suitable rest areas for women, presence of workshop spaces for female artists, design and development of green spaces for women's use, design of public spaces suitable for children, development of local social groups, and promotion of a culture of using art in public spaces. |
Regulatory | - |
Susceptible | Holding women's business exhibitions, presence of large spaces for women's group activities, presence of accessible health and welfare facilities, and presence of accessible educational centers. |
Independent | Access to suitable public transportation for women, holding accessible cultural and artistic programs, presence of local women's markets, allocation of budget for creative projects, presence of special spaces for mothers, provision of medical services near public spaces, presence of commercial spaces for rent at low cost, training of entrepreneurship skills for women, and better lighting in urban spaces. |
Target | - |
Risk | Presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors. |
Figures 8 and 9 show the graphical representation of the factors influencing the creative consumption of urban space by women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz. In these figures, the direct and indirect effects of the drivers on other system factors are specified. The manner of the factors' influence is described as weakest influence, weak influence, medium influence, strong influence, and strongest influence.
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Fig 5. Direct relationships between factors (from very weak to very strong) | Fig 6. Indirect relationships between factors (from very weak to very strong) |
Identification of Key Factors Influencing the Creative Consumption of Urban Space by Women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz
Out of 31 drivers, 13 factors have a greater key influence on the creative consumption of urban space by women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz. These include designing safe spaces for women, attracting women's participation in decision-making, creating multi-purpose social spaces, promoting awareness about women's rights, supporting women's voluntary activities, developing local social groups, providing job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors, holding cultural activities specifically for women, providing easy access to public spaces, designing public spaces suitable for children, promoting a culture of using art in public spaces, providing accessible health and welfare facilities, and the presence of cultural and artistic learning environments. these forces play a highly influential but minimally susceptible role in the system environment, with the goal of facilitating the creative consumption of urban spaces on Behesht Boulevard. As a result, they are considered the most effective and key factors (Table 7).
Table 7. Key Factors Influencing the Creative Consumption of Urban Spaces on Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz
Rank | Code | Factor | Direct Influence |
1 | Var11 | Design of safe spaces for women | 426 |
2 | Var14 | Attracting women's participation in decision-making | 439 |
3 | Var10 | Creation of multi-purpose social spaces | 437 |
4 | Var18 | Promoting awareness about women's rights | 421 |
5 | Var19 | Support for women's voluntary activities | 412 |
6 | Var09 | Development of local social groups | 408 |
7 | Var06 | Presence of job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors | 395 |
8 | Var08 | Holding cultural activities specifically for women | 394 |
9 | Var23 | Easy access to public spaces | 393 |
10 | Var20 | Design of public spaces suitable for children | 394 |
11 | Var15 | Promotion of a culture of using art in public spaces | 392 |
12 | Var27 | Presence of accessible health and welfare facilities | 392 |
13 | Var16 | Presence of cultural and artistic learning environments | 389 |
Conclusion
This research was conducted with the aim of identifying the factors influencing the creative consumption of urban space by women on Behesht Boulevard, District 6 of Shiraz. The findings of this research showed that the overall scatter pattern of the effective factors on the creative consumption of these spaces, in terms of cross-impact analysis, indicates the state of an unstable environmental system, in which the studied factors have a complex and intermediate state of influence and susceptibility. The clustering status shows a concentrated cluster in the area of dual factors. Out of 31 drivers, 13 factors have a key influence on the status of the studied topic on Behesht Boulevard.
These results indicate that on Behesht Boulevard, women's creative consumption of urban spaces depends on a set of factors related to security, participation, welfare, and cultural promotion, which can directly influence the improvement of their quality of life and increase their social participation. Designing safe spaces for women is the first step in ensuring their active presence in the urban environment and strengthens a sense of security and peace throughout the boulevard, in a way that women's presence in social and cultural activities is accompanied by greater motivation and continuity. Attracting women into urban decision-making processes reflects their real needs in the design of public spaces and allows for the realization of responsive and multi-faceted designs.
The creation of multi-purpose social spaces along the boulevard simultaneously provides the opportunity for holding group, cultural, educational, and recreational activities, thereby strengthening social interactions among different age and gender groups. Promoting awareness about women's rights and supporting their voluntary activities helps to improve their social capabilities and strengthens women's role at the neighborhood level, making their participation in local activities sustainable. The development of local social groups and the creation of neighborhood networks increase the sense of belonging to a place and cooperation among residents, turning the boulevard into a dynamic and social environment.
Providing job opportunities in the artistic and creative sectors, especially for women, not only strengthens their economic independence but also enhances creativity and the production of cultural content in the urban environment. Holding cultural activities specifically for women creates social vitality, strengthens the neighborhood's cultural identity, and turns the boulevard into a hub for the production and distribution of local culture. Easy access to public spaces and suitable design for children ensures the well-being and safety of families and turns the boulevard into an environment that is friendly to all age groups.
Promoting a culture of using art in public spaces through urban elements and cultural and artistic programs increases the environmental appeal of the boulevard and enhances the experience of citizens. The presence of accessible health and welfare facilities improves the level of comfort and social satisfaction and makes it possible for people to stay in public spaces for longer periods. Creating cultural and artistic learning environments along the boulevard provides informal and creativity-centered educational opportunities for all age groups and strengthens generational interaction and cultural exchange. In total, an approach that simultaneously considers security, active participation, cultural promotion, welfare, and urban creativity turns Behesht Boulevard in Shiraz into a successful example of an inclusive, responsive, and sustainable urban space. Such an approach not only improves the quality of life for residents but also continuously and sustainably strengthens social interactions, civic participation, and the cultural development of the area, making the boulevard an inspiring model for designing urban public spaces in other parts of the city.
Comparison with Related Research
An examination of the results obtained regarding women's creative consumption of urban spaces on Behesht Boulevard and their comparison with related research shows a significant alignment in the findings. For example, the study by Arushi Malhotra et al. (2023) examines women's feelings toward public spaces and emphasizes that the design of these spaces should provide a sense of belonging and security for women. These findings align with the results of the Behesht Boulevard research, where the need to design safe and multi-purpose spaces to increase women's participation was emphasized.
Similarly, the research by Kiara Rampaul et al. (2022) emphasizes the importance of incorporating gender into urban planning and states that the creation of multi-purpose social spaces can help promote women's inclusion. This topic also aligns with the results of the Behesht Boulevard research, as the lack of suitable multi-purpose spaces for women's social activities was raised as a challenge. Furthermore, other studies, such as Scarponi et al. (2023), have addressed the impact of a sense of security on women's participation in public spaces, a topic that is also clearly seen in our research results. Finally, this comparison shows that despite differences in research focus, many of the factors influencing the creative consumption of urban spaces by women are similar. This alignment in findings indicates the need for comprehensive and multi-dimensional approaches in designing urban spaces to best identify and solve women's specific needs and challenges. Research by Gqola et al. (2024) also emphasizes the importance of creating safe and suitable environments for women's presence in public spaces.
This alignment in findings indicates the need for comprehensive and multi-dimensional approaches in designing urban spaces to best identify and solve women's specific needs and challenges. Overall, these studies show that attention to the specific needs of women in the design of urban spaces not only helps improve their quality of life but can also lead to the sustainable development of cities.
Based on the results obtained from this research, the main research suggestions are presented in Table 8.
Table 8. Practical Suggestions for the Creative Consumption of Urban Space by Women on Behesht Boulevard Shiraz
Row | Action | Location | Responsible Body | Proposed Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Design safe walking paths and suitable lighting | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Municipal District and Development Organization | 6-12 months |
2 | Form a women's advisory council for urban space planning | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Municipal Social and Cultural Organization | 3 months |
3 | Design multi-purpose squares and parks | Along Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Parks and Green Spaces Organization | 12-18 months |
4 | Install educational elements and hold information campaigns | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, and NGOs | Every season |
5 | Create volunteer centers and facilitate women's social activities | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Social Organization and NGOs | 6 months |
6 | Support the formation of local cultural and artistic groups | Neighborhoods surrounding Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Local Cultural Organization and NGOs | Ongoing |
7 | Hold local markets for women's artworks | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Municipality and Handicrafts Union | 3-6 months per period |
8 | Implement workshops and cultural programs specifically for women | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Municipal Cultural and Artistic Organization | Every season |
9 | Improve walking paths and their connection to public transportation | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Municipal District and Transportation Organization | 6-12 months |
10 | Install play equipment and educational paths for children | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Parks Organization and Local Educational Organization | 6-9 months |
11 | Install artworks and hold exhibitions and music performances | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Cultural and Artistic Organization and NGOs | Ongoing |
12 | Create restrooms, shelters, and comfortable seating | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Municipal District | 6-12 months |
13 | Launch libraries and educational workshops | Behesht Boulevard, Shiraz | Cultural Organization, NGOs, and local schools | 9-12 months |
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