Thirteenth International Conference on Design Principles & Practices

Abstract

The paper analyses the use of open spaces at Noshirvani Institute of Technology located in a compact urban setting of Babol, a city in north of Iran. The objective is to assess user perception and patterns of outdoor space use. The research used behavior mapping and interviews as method of data collection. Findings of the study suggest that green spaces between university buildings are focal points in student everyday behavior and have an important role in stimulating outdoor activities and social behavior among students. On the other hand, the eastern part of the campus where university staff and professors park their cars is least frequented by students. Increasing the number of seating, adding different types of arrangements and offering outdoor spaces that work for different weather conditions are among student recommendations that could increase open space use among students. The paper makes recommendations for landscape architects based on findings of the research.