Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Corresponding Author, Postdoctoral student of Urban Design, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tarbiat Dabir Shahid Rajaei, University, Tehran, Iran.
2
Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran.
3
M.A. Student in Architecture, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract
This study investigates the factors affecting user satisfaction with public spaces, particularly in the context of safety, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The research focuses on Saat Square in Tabriz, one of the city's most important public and commercial spaces. Due to its central location and ease of access, the square attracts a large number of individuals daily from diverse demographic, social, and economic backgrounds. For this study, 203 face-to-face surveys were conducted randomly to explore users' perceptions of accessibility, usage and activities, safety, comfort, image, and overall satisfaction with the public space of Saat Square. Data analysis was carried out using exploratory factor analysis and validation assessment. Subsequently, relationships among these factors and user satisfaction were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling in Amos 24 software. The findings indicate that safety, especially nighttime security and surveillance, has the most significant impact on user satisfaction in Saat Square. Additionally, usage, activities, and the image of the space greatly influence satisfaction, while accessibility and comfort have a lesser effect on overall user satisfaction. The results emphasize the importance of enhancing security measures in Saat Square and paying attention to the design of public spaces in Tabriz to improve the sense of safety and meet user needs. This research can assist Tabriz urban management in optimizing the design of Saat Square and other public urban spaces to increase user safety and satisfaction, creating a safer and more appealing urban environment.