Changes in the traditional urban form and the social sustainability of contemporary cities: A case study of Iranian cities

This article discusses how traditional urban patterns can inspire planners to create integrated urban environments which are more sustainable socially. Our focus is on the Iranian cities. First we describe the main elements of traditional Iranian cities, their qualities, and the way they have contributed to the social sustainability of communities. Later, we explain the current situations and the way these elements have lost their function and their integrity is disrupted. We conclude the article by emphasizing that planners should consider the evolution of the city in the course of time and lessons learned from the past should be considered at the time of development or redevelopment. Taking account of the inherent values of traditional urban forms will be a complement to the modern planning and design techniques and will facilitate creation of communities which are more sustainable socially.

► Social sustainability is briefly defined.
► Basic components of traditional and contemporary urban patterns are described.
► Each pattern's potential to deliver socially sustainable communities is discussed.
► Lessons that can be learned from the past are highlighted.
► Some measures for enhancing the social sustainability of cities are suggested.