Analyzing the Role of Spatial Contrast in the Formation of Place Identity Based on a Spatial–Perceptual Approach (Case Studies: Ribat Sharaf Caravanserai and Chenaran Service Complex)

Subject Areas :

mahdi Taghavi Khorasani ¹ , SEYYED MOHAMMAD KHOSRO SAHAF ² , Hero Farkisch ³ , Dovood Choganian ⁴

1 - Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch
2 - Department of Architecture, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
3 - Department of Architecture, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
4 - Department of Islamic Mysticism, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran

Received: 2025-11-01 Accepted : 2025-12-05 Published : 2025-12-16

Keywords: Robat Sharaf, Spatial Contrast, Place Identity, Spatial Structure.,

Abstract :

The formation of place identity in both traditional and contemporary architectural spaces is influenced by spatial relationships, physical configurations, and users’ perceptual experiences. In recent decades, the crisis of place identity in contemporary architecture—resulting from spatial uniformity and the disconnection between humans and their environment—has become one of the major challenges in urban design. Therefore, recognizing the factors that strengthen the sense of belonging and spatial perception is an undeniable necessity. This study, adopting a spatial–perceptual approach, analyzes the role of spatial contrasts in shaping place identity and seeks to explain the relationship between spatial organization, user experience, and the mental consolidation of place. The research method combines quantitative and qualitative analyses. In the quantitative phase, spatial indicators such as integration, relative depth, connectivity, control, dispersion, and visibility were extracted using DepthMap software and analyzed based on field data and plan maps of two case studies: the Ribat Sharaf Caravanserai as a traditional model and the Chenaran Service Complex as a contemporary example. The data enabled the identification of main and secondary paths, key spatial nodes, and focal points, facilitating the evaluation of the relationship between spatial components and users’ perception of place identity. Findings indicate that in the traditional case, the contrast between enclosed and open spaces, longitudinal routes and chambers, as well as the integration of intermediate spaces with the central courtyard, create a richer spatial experience and reinforce the sense of belonging. Conversely, in the contemporary case, the focus on lobbies and central spaces leads to reduced spatial diversity and a weakened perception of place identity. Overall, the results demonstrate that spatial contrasts, route legibility, and structural integration are key elements in creating meaningful spatial experiences and consolidating place identity in users’ minds.

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