Enhancing Livability of Squares and Streets

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Chapter One: Introduction
• 1.1 Background of the Study
• 1.2 Statement of the Problem
• 1.3 Objective of the Study
• 1.3.1 General Objective
• 1.3.2 Specific Objectives
• 1.4 Research Questions
• 1.5 Significance of the Study
• 1.6 Scope and Limitations
• 1.7 Organization of the Paper
• Chapter Two: Research Methodology
• 2.1 The Research Issue
• 2.2 Selection of Research Method
• 2.3 Research Design
• Chapter Three: Literature Review
• 3.1 Introduction
• 3.2 Livability, Livable City
• 3.3 Why Livability
• 3.4 Livability of Outdoor Public Spaces
• 3.5 International Case Studies on Livable Square and Street
• 3.6 Theoretical Framework
• 3.7 Recent Approaches Towards Livable Squares and Streets
• Chapter Four: Contextual Review
• 4.1 Tigray Overview
• 4.2 Introducing Mekelle
• 4.3 The Issue of Livability in the City CBD
• 4.4 Local Case Study on Livable Street
• Chapter Five: Result and Analysis
• Chapter Six: Discussion and Proposal

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This M.Sc. thesis aims to understand the livability problems of the Romanat district in Mekelle, Ethiopia, and to propose a design to enhance its livability. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, incorporating qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

• Livability of urban squares and streets in a developing city context.
• The impact of spatial attributes (safety, amenities, aesthetics, accessibility) on livability.
• User perceptions and preferences regarding the design of public spaces.
• Development of design solutions to improve livability based on user needs.
• Implementation and management strategies for enhancing livability.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

Chapter One: Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the research, introducing the rapidly developing city of Mekelle and its central business district (CBD). It highlights the problem of low livability in the Romanat district, characterized by a lack of pedestrian interest and a preference for indoor spaces and motorized transport. The chapter outlines the study's objectives, research questions, significance, scope, and limitations, emphasizing the need for a user-responsive design to enhance the district's livability and address socio-environmental consequences.

Chapter Two: Research Methodology: This chapter details the research approach, justifying the selection of a case study based exploratory and quasi-experimental mixed-methods design. The methodology includes case selection (Romanat district), data collection techniques (in-depth interviews, map-making, Likert-scale rating, site observation), sampling strategies, and data analysis methods (content analysis, shared cognitive mapping, descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis). The chapter meticulously outlines the steps taken to ensure a comprehensive and rigorous investigation.

Chapter Three: Literature Review: This chapter provides a thorough review of existing literature on livability, livable cities, and the design of livable public spaces. It examines various definitions of livability, the importance of walkability and stayability, and the role of spatial attributes like comfort, image, use, activity, access, and sociability. The chapter also reviews international case studies of successful public spaces and discusses recent design approaches, such as landscaping at eye level, ground floor architecture, and traffic calming mechanisms, setting the theoretical framework for the study.

Chapter Four: Contextual Review: This chapter presents a contextual overview of Mekelle, Tigray, and its CBD. It analyzes the city's spatial growth, road network, transportation systems, and existing greenery. The chapter also investigates the city's traffic conditions and explores local cultures and traditions, providing the necessary background information to understand the specific context of the Romanat district and its livability challenges. A local case study of a more livable street, Sew'at Avenue, is included for comparison.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

Livability, spatial attributes, comfort, image, use, activity, access, linkage, sociability, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, CBD, urban design, public space, pedestrian, mixed methods, qualitative research, quantitative research.

Frequently Asked Questions: M.Sc. Thesis on Livability in Mekelle, Ethiopia

What is the main topic of this M.Sc. thesis?

This thesis investigates the livability challenges in the Romanat district of Mekelle, Ethiopia, and proposes design solutions to enhance it. The study focuses on understanding how spatial attributes and user perceptions influence livability in a developing city context.

What are the key themes explored in the thesis?

Key themes include the livability of urban squares and streets, the impact of spatial attributes (safety, amenities, aesthetics, accessibility) on livability, user perceptions and preferences regarding public space design, developing design solutions based on user needs, and implementation and management strategies for improving livability.

What methodology was used in the research?

The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data. Methods included in-depth interviews, map-making, Likert-scale ratings, site observations, content analysis, shared cognitive mapping, descriptive statistics, and multiple regression analysis. A case study design focusing on the Romanat district was utilized.

What chapters are included in the thesis?

The thesis is structured into six chapters: Chapter One (Introduction), Chapter Two (Research Methodology), Chapter Three (Literature Review), Chapter Four (Contextual Review), Chapter Five (Result and Analysis), and Chapter Six (Discussion and Proposal). Each chapter addresses specific aspects of the research, building from the introduction of the problem to the presentation of findings and proposed solutions.

What is covered in the Literature Review chapter?

Chapter Three provides a comprehensive review of existing literature on livability, livable cities, and the design of livable public spaces. It examines definitions of livability, the importance of walkability and stayability, and the role of spatial attributes. International case studies and recent design approaches are also discussed.

What is the focus of the Contextual Review chapter?

Chapter Four offers a contextual overview of Mekelle, Tigray, and its central business district (CBD). It analyzes the city's spatial growth, road network, transportation systems, existing greenery, traffic conditions, and local culture, providing context for the Romanat district's livability challenges. A local case study of a more livable street is included for comparison.

What are the overall objectives of the study?

The primary objective is to understand the livability problems in the Romanat district. Specific objectives include analyzing the impact of spatial attributes on livability, exploring user perceptions, and proposing design solutions to improve livability based on user needs.

What are the key keywords associated with this thesis?

Key words include: Livability, spatial attributes, comfort, image, use, activity, access, linkage, sociability, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, CBD, urban design, public space, pedestrian, mixed methods, qualitative research, quantitative research.

What type of data was collected and analyzed?

Both qualitative data (from in-depth interviews and observations) and quantitative data (from Likert-scale ratings and other measurements) were collected and analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research problem.

What is the significance of this research?

This research contributes to the understanding of livability in developing city contexts, specifically focusing on user-centric design solutions. The findings can inform urban planning and design practices to improve the quality of life in similar urban areas.