Introduction

In recent decades, there has been a notable shift in the discourse surrounding sustainable development within architecture. Initially, the focus was predominantly on environmental and economic concerns [1, 2]. Sustainable development is influenced by the intricate relationships between ecosystems and social systems at various scales. From a social systems perspective, sustainable development is best understood through a sociological lens, emphasizing the importance of social connectivity across multiple levels of social structures [3]. Over time, the growing recognition of the social dimension of sustainability has led to increased attention to social sustainability [2]. This shift underscores the critical role social sustainability plays in achieving truly sustainable architecture. The centrality of human resources in architectural design, and its potential to outweigh purely ecological considerations, has positioned social sustainability as a cornerstone of 21st-century sustainable design practices [1, 2, 3, 4]. Sustainable architecture, as a thoughtful response to today’s complex challenges, holds a central place in contemporary global architectural discourse [5]. Addressing social sustainability in this context provides a valuable opportunity to contribute to the realization of sustainable development goals [6].

However, the concept of social sustainability remains difficult to define universally, complicating the development of a comprehensive framework that applies across all contexts and scales. This dimension of sustainability prioritizes human needs and the quality of experiences individuals have within a space, which are closely tied to cultural factors [7]. Therefore, social sustainability emphasizes the mutual relationship between culture and humanity. Achieving social sustainability in a specific location requires a deep understanding of the inhabitants, their cultural context, and their unique needs [8, 9, 10]. This understanding is essential for designing spaces that accommodate diverse human needs, organizing social activities, and shaping institutions and organizations. Importantly, these designs must also safeguard the environment and its regenerative capacity, aligning with the broader goals of sustainability, which include upholding social norms like justice, self-respect, and participation [11, 12]. Ultimately, social sustainability seeks to reduce long- term social needs (often referred to as the social capital index) by identifying and addressing functional social issues within architectural design. It explores how various social groups can coexist harmoniously within designed spaces, while considering physical and environmental constraints within a holistic framework.

The modern interpretation of social sustainability extends beyond traditional policies such as equity and health. It now incorporates innovative concepts like public participation, social capital, happiness, and quality of life [13]. As inherently social beings, humans rely on social interactions to fulfill their social and psychological needs, especially for children and the elderly. The absence of social support systems that attract diverse populations and foster positive interactions highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to urban design and sustainable urban engineering [14]. Social sustainability, as a critical component of the broader sustainable development framework, promotes an equitable and inclusive lifestyle for individuals and communities [15]. Such an approach must recognize the importance of social sustainability in creating spaces that promote social well-being.

When renewing architectural heritage, it is crucial to balance socio-cultural and socio-economic values. Preserving the unique characteristics of urban landscapes requires an understanding of their cultural and historical significance, while addressing contemporary needs. A flexible model that integrates social, economic, and environmental factors can foster a more balanced and sustainable approach to urban revitalization [16].

Building on the understanding of inhabitants and their cultural contexts, achieving social sustainability in public spaces depends on several design considerations:

1.Addressing Fundamental Human Needs: Architectural design must prioritize the fundamental needs of users, such as safety, security, comfort, and accessibility.

2.Enhancing Spatial Quality: Beyond functionality, public spaces should offer aesthetic appeal, stimulation, and a variety of experiences that cater to diverse desires and preferences. Incorporating natural light, using sustainable materials, and creating opportunities for interaction can improve spatial quality.

3.Harmonizing Design with Behavior: Social sustainability seeks to align biological and behavioral patterns with the physical layout of space. Designing areas that encourage social interaction, promote physical activity, and foster a sense of community—such as plazas, seating areas, and pathways—can significantly enhance social connections.

As noted earlier, societies, communities, and even seemingly homogeneous groups have diverse needs and preferences. Acknowledging this diversity is essential for achieving social sustainability. Numerous studies have explored methods for assessing social sustainability in urban settings and architecture [17, 18]. These studies aim to develop criteria and indicators to guide stakeholders in enhancing social sustainability. Today, aligning spaces with community desires remains a primary concern for architects and urban designers [19]. Cultural spaces, such as city halls, are no exception. By designing these spaces to meet both the physical and psychological needs of citizens, architects can create environments that foster social interaction and contribute to cultural development. This, in turn, nurtures a sense of belonging and ownership, empowering citizens to engage with their heritage and express their creativity, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and resilient society.

This article stems from the thesis of one of the authors and explores the concept of social sustainability within public structures, specifically focusing on hall gardens in Ilam, a province in western Iran. The research responds to the increasing recognition of the importance of human relationships and social interaction in today’s world. It also considers the relatively recent emergence of environmental psychology in Iran and the lack of scientific research on social interaction patterns in city halls across the country, especially in historical structures with beneficial design elements.

In light of these factors, the research examines the structure of Ilam’s city halls and the social interactions among visitors. It posits that city halls can be transformed into spaces designed to meet human needs, drawing from cultural and traditional values. The presence of people in these complexes fosters a dynamic environment that enhances social activity, turning physical spaces into vibrant public spaces. While acknowledging the crucial role of social and cultural elements in shaping social interactions, the research also highlights the significant influence of physical space.

Consequently, this study aims to identify and explore the components of social sustainability in Ilam’s public spaces, with a particular focus on garden halls. The research seeks to propose design solutions that enhance social interaction among citizens, thereby promoting social sustainability. To achieve this, the study addresses the following questions:

1.What components are central to achieving social sustainability within the social context of Ilam city?

2.What factors can influence and enhance the level of social sustainability in public spaces, particularly garden halls?

The article is structured as follows: it begins with a literature review that examines relevant research, comparing and contrasting it with the current study. This is followed by a detailed description of the research methodology. The subsequent sections present the findings, analyze them in relation to the study’s objectives, and conclude with remarks on the significance of the research. Finally, the article offers suggestions for future research in this area.

Literature Review

The concept of sustainable development became a cornerstone of global strategy with the release of the Brundtland Report in 1987. This report defined sustainable development through three key components: economic, environmental, and social aspects [1]. Initially, during the 1980s, the environmental dimension was at the forefront of sustainability discussions. By the late 1990s, however, the economic dimension began to gain prominence, standing alongside environmental concerns. Only in recent decades has the social dimension of sustainability been recognized as an equally important component of sustainable development [2].

Scholars have adopted varying definitions of social sustainability, which has led to the development of diverse social indicators for evaluation. Notably, Polèse and Stern contributed to this discourse by defining social sustainability as development that promotes social integration and improves the quality of life for all societal segments [4]. Chan and Lee argued that a socially sustainable project should create a harmonious living environment, while also reducing social inequality and enhancing overall quality of life [5]. Additionally, social sustainability has been described as the achievement of “positive conditions in societies and the processes that lead to them.” According to Almahmoud and Doloi, public spaces play a crucial role in this process, as social interactions and the daily experiences of urban life elevate the importance of these spaces within the urban fabric [6].

In Iranian research, Rezaei Vezmatar and Agah examined the success of public spaces, suggesting that the degree to which people utilize these spaces serves as a key indicator of the effectiveness of their design [7]. In this study, sociability was used as a measure of the designers’ success. The findings indicated that, among the factors influencing social sustainability, the variables of “placement” and “attractiveness” of the complex ranked highest. This was followed by “accessibility” in second place, “availability of sufficient space for diverse functions and activities” in third, “natural landscapes and interaction with nature” in fourth, “environmental quality” in fifth, “climatic comfort” in sixth, and “visual appropriateness” in seventh.

The European Commission has defined urban sustainability as addressing urban challenges in a way that ensures the flow of resources and energy remains within the environmental capacity of the city. In light of this, Hajian and Kashani emphasized that meeting human social needs and providing opportunities for social experiences require well-designed spaces with appropriate physical and behavioral arrangements [12]. Public spaces—such as squares, parks, and sidewalks—hold immense potential to meet these requirements.

Dempsy et al. further highlighted that these factors are essential components of social sustainability, which are fundamental to building a sustainable society [10]. They also stressed the importance of urban green spaces, noting that proper planning of these areas plays a critical role in promoting social sustainability. Shepley et al. advocate for the encouragement of outdoor activities and the discouragement of sedentary lifestyles, as increased social interaction and enhanced mental health are closely linked. Improving the physical dimensions of residential complexes, while incorporating elements that promote social sustainability, can significantly elevate the quality of life for residents. In this regard, the application of social sustainability principles is a pivotal aspect of effective placemaking.

While the studies mentioned here have explored social sustainability in various contexts and cultures, this research focuses specifically on social sustainability within a public space type widely used in Iranian social culture, particularly in the western region of the country. A notable feature of this research is its methodology, which relies on the insights of experts and specialists in architecture, given the specialized nature of the subject.

Sustainable Development

The concept of sustainable development emerged in response to growing concerns about the socio-economic progress and urban growth’s impact on the environment [8]. By the 1960s and 1970s, it became evident that many environmental problems stemmed from the imbalance in the relationship between humans and their surroundings. This realization called for a reevaluation of traditional development models [9]. Since the 1980s, sustainable development has been acknowledged as a fundamental principle, emphasizing the need to consider future generations when planning development [12]. Sustainable development requires that all decisions account for the needs of diverse societal groups and carefully weigh the social and economic implications before implementation.

A comprehensive definition of sustainable development must incorporate the three key pillars: economic, social, and environmental. For instance, a sustainable economic system should foster stability and balance across various sectors. In terms of the environment, sustainability requires that natural resources be preserved to avoid overconsumption and degradation. Regarding social sustainability, a system must ensure equitable resource distribution, provide equal access to social services, and promote active participation and interaction across all social classes [11].

Social Sustainability

Sociologists have long emphasized that humans are the central agents in the development process. Social organizations and collective human activities are pivotal to achieving sustainable development. Neglecting the social dimensions of development can significantly undermine the effectiveness of development plans [13].

The concept of social sustainability gained traction through critiques of modernist approaches by theorists and thinkers, initially within philosophy and later extending to urban planning and architecture. According to Rogers (1998), sustainable design must meet the needs of the present generation while considering those of future generations. He argued that sustainable design should give equal importance to social and economic factors, alongside environmental concerns like energy consumption and the ecological impact of buildings and cities [14].

Social sustainability is commonly defined by four key criteria: social justice, solidarity, participation, and security. It encompasses a range of features, including accessibility (e.g., access to employment, open spaces, and local services), social capital, local participation, and social cohesion (both real and perceived). Additional factors include health and well- being, education, equitable distribution of employment and income, cultural heritage, housing stability, connectivity (e.g., pedestrian-friendly areas and efficient transport links), social justice (both inter- and intra-generational), and fostering a sense of place and belonging [17].

Lang posited that social sustainability is anchored in people’s desire to live in a particular place, emphasizing that this connection should persist both now and in the future [18].

Social Interactions

Social interaction refers to the reciprocal actions between individuals in response to one another. This two-sided exchange is essential for fulfilling human needs and fostering a sense of belonging, as it creates opportunities for socialization, which is critical for individual development [18]. Human roles in society are often shaped by personal interests, societal norms, and expectations, as well as factors such as class, religion, lifestyle, education, and income. As a result, individuals may gravitate toward environments where they share commonalities with others. The homogeneity of individuals in these spaces, combined with incentives and increased interaction with physical and social environments, leads to a stronger sense of attachment to the place [19].

Different individuals engage in varying levels and forms of social interaction [7]. The ideal level of interaction is subjective, influenced by personal preferences, and can also be evaluated objectively through normative standards of a “good life.” Both subjective and objective levels of social interaction carry social and political implications [18]. Proponents of interactive theories assert that humans engage with their environment, both influencing and being influenced by it.

Numerous theories and perspectives have been proposed regarding social sustainability and social interactions, underscoring the breadth of these concepts. To provide a comprehensive understanding and capture the multifaceted nature of social sustainability, four key factors have been identified: participation, security, sense of belonging, and quality of life. Since this research focuses on analyzing factors that enhance social sustainability in public spaces, Table 1 summarizes the key components that influence social sustainability, along with the contributions of various experts in this field.

Material and Methodology

This research falls under the category of applied research, based on its objectives. Since it primarily gathers insights from experienced experts, it utilizes a survey method. Furthermore, the qualitative nature of the study, driven by the Delphi technique for data analysis, emphasizes an in-depth understanding of complex issues [20]. Qualitative research provides a holistic, introspective perspective, integrating participants’ viewpoints rather than imposing the researcher’s interpretation [21]. This approach is especially useful for interpreting social interactions and human behavior.

Given the nature of the research, selecting the key components for the final design required a combination of library research and expert opinion. While library research provides foundational knowledge, it is insufficient on its own. Therefore, the perspectives of experts and specialists were essential in identifying the critical components that align with the research goals and the cultural and social context of the region. This made qualitative research the most suitable approach, with the Delphi technique chosen for its cost- effectiveness, versatility, objectivity, and ability to aggregate diverse opinions, especially when clarity and empirical evidence are lacking [22].

The Delphi technique offers numerous advantages, including flexibility across disciplines, application over large geographical areas, the anonymity of participants, and open discussions. It also avoids interviewer bias and promotes honest expression, facilitating a more truthful and unbiased perspective [23]. By stimulating new ideas and encouraging feedback between rounds, the technique fosters innovation and expands participants’ knowledge [24]. Most importantly, it prevents the waste of time and resources on irrelevant decisions by adopting an analytical and systematic approach to predictions [25].

To investigate and identify the components of social sustainability in public spaces in Ilam City, the Delphi technique was employed with input from architectural experts, particularly those experienced in designing garden halls. Data were collected using a combination of interviews and questionnaires. After categorizing and extracting the content, the data were rigorously analyzed using qualitative analysis methodologies.

Defining the Temporal and Spatial Scope of the Research

The current research was conducted in Ilam city, situated in Ilam province, between Tir and Bahman of the Persian year 1401 (corresponding roughly to July, 2022 – February, 2023 in Gregorian calendar). Ilam province covers an area of 20,133 square kilometers and ranks as the 22nd largest province in Iran. It shares its western border with Iraq, its southern border with Khuzestan province, its eastern border with Lorestan province, and its northern border with Kermanshah province. Along with Khuzestan province, Ilam province has the longest shared international border with Iraq.

Ilam is characterized by a mountainous, semi-hot, and semi-humid climate. Ilam is one of the provinces covered by Iranian forests. The northern part of the province is located in a mountainous region with cold winters, while the southern region features vast plains with hot summers. The primary language spoken in this region is Kurdish, with the Lori and Lekki dialects also prevalent. The majority of the population adheres to Islam, particularly the Shia branch of Twelver Shi’ism.

Research Steps

The research followed the steps of the Delphi method outlined by Fowles [26].

1.Formation of an implementation and monitoring team for the Delphi method.

2.Selection of one or more expert panels, typically comprised of specialists in architecture.

3.Designing the first-round questionnaire.

4.Reviewing the questionnaire for clarity and addressing any ambiguities.

5.Distributing the first questionnaire to panel members.

6.Analyzing the responses from the first round.

7.Preparing the second-round questionnaire, incorporating necessary revisions.

8.Distributing the second questionnaire to the panel.

9.Analyzing the second-round responses (this process was repeated until consensus was reached).

10.Compiling a final report by the research team.

Ensuring that participants had a clear understanding of the Delphi method’s goals was crucial. In some cases, unrelated responses were due to misunderstandings. Therefore, the selected participants had significant knowledge of the subject matter, although extremely high expertise in the specific field was not mandatory.

Studied Sample

The Delphi technique was chosen for its strength in gathering expert opinions from a strategically selected sample, ensuring diverse perspectives (Table 2). This diversity is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding through the aggregation of varied viewpoints.

The sample comprised experts of varying ages, educational backgrounds, and professional experience (Table 2). Most participants were between 46-48 years old (50%), with representation in the 43-45 age range (33%), and a smaller group between 40-42 years old (16.7%). This distribution ensured a balance between seasoned professionals with extensive experience and those with more recent expertise.

In terms of education, the majority held Doctorate degrees (66%), while the rest held Master’s degrees (33%). This high level of qualification reflects the advanced knowledge required for this research.

The participants’ professional experience ranged from 5 to 20 years (Table 2). While 33% had 5-10 years of experience, 42% had 15-20 years, and 25% had 10-15 years. This range allowed for a mix of well-established professionals and those with more contemporary viewpoints.

The sample’s broad range of expertise enabled a thorough evaluation of social sustainability in architecture, including areas like costs, technology, design, construction, installation, maintenance, operations, and regulatory and safety considerations.

Additionally, most participants held membership in prominent organizations such as the Country’s Construction Engineering System Organization (CCESO), the Organization of Roads and Urban Development (ORUD), and the Ilam Beautification Organization (IBO). Their extensive professional experience, ranging from 6 to 40 years, with a median of 16 years, further bolstered the credibility of their insights. Many had worked on complex projects and sustainability technologies related to public spaces, ensuring their ability to provide valuable perspectives on social sustainability in urban design.

Results and Discussion

In this section, the findings of the research are presented and analyzed, based on semi-structured interviews conducted with 12 experts specializing in social sustainability and urban design. A snowball sampling method was employed to identify participants with relevant experience and knowledge. Qualitative data from these interviews were subjected to thematic analysis, during which 66 themes were extracted, coded, and grouped to finalize the research framework.

Factors and Components Influencing Social Sustainability in Public Spaces

The research revealed that most interviewees considered evoking a sense of peace and comfort as the most critical factor in enhancing social sustainability in public spaces. In addition to peace and comfort, fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring high- quality architectural spaces, particularly in terms of visual appeal, were also frequently emphasized. These findings are consistent with the study by Azizibabani et al., which demonstrated that social sustainability plays a vital role in creating a sense of tranquility and enhancing resident satisfaction [27].

Impacts of Social Sustainability on Urban Complex and Garden Hall Design

According to the participants, social sustainability should prioritize both individual and collective well- being. The experts highlighted that fostering cultural enrichment, social cohesion, environmental interaction, social convergence, and improving the quality of life are essential outcomes of designs that integrate social sustainability. This perspective aligns with Fleurbaey’s research, which explored the connection between economic welfare and social sustainability [28].

Factors and Influences on Social Interaction in Urban Spaces, with Emphasis on Garden Halls

The interviews highlighted accessibility and flexibility as the two most crucial factors for enhancing social interactions in urban spaces. Additionally, comfort and a sense of belonging to a place were identified as vital for improving social cohesion. These findings resonate with Cavalliere et al.’s work, which also pointed to flexibility as a key driver in enhancing sustainability in built environments [29].

Exploring the Implications of Designing Urban Complexes or Garden Halls with Consideration for Social Interactions

Interviewees pointed out that designs prioritizing social interactions promote a sense of empathy and participation, which ranked first among the outcomes. Improving quality of life, fostering sociability, and encouraging cultural enrichment were also recognized as important results of such designs. These social benefits underscore the importance of incorporating interaction-friendly features in public spaces.

Incorporating Social Sustainability: Essential Physical Features in Garden Hall Design

Participants identified several critical physical features that should be incorporated into garden hall designs to enhance social sustainability. These features include easy accessibility, well-maintained green spaces, consideration for the needs of disabled individuals, compatibility with the surrounding environment, attention to public health and hygiene, high spatial quality, and insulation from noise pollution. These characteristics were seen as crucial for designing socially sustainable spaces, with a particular focus on fostering social interactions and enhancing the overall user experience.

Key Architectural Design Criteria

The interviewees expressed a preference for architectural designs that respect local and cultural patterns, ensure user satisfaction, and emphasize the quality of spaces. The most frequently mentioned design criteria included:

1.Adherence to local and cultural patterns (ranked first, tied with ensuring user satisfaction).

2.Attention to the quality of architectural spaces (ranked second).

3.Utilization of local natural elements in the design (ranked third).

4.Addressing the needs of children, considering current and future development potential, and catering to the wider community’s requirements (ranked fourth).

This echoes the principles of vernacular architecture, which is inherently responsive to local climate conditions and culturally aligned with community needs. As noted by Avci and Beyhan, vernacular architecture offers valuable lessons for integrating social sustainability into contemporary designs [30].

Disruptive Factors and Obstacles to Social Sustainability Approaches

The research identified several obstacles that could hinder the successful implementation of socially sustainable design. These include:

-Neglecting people’s needs and disregarding the essential components of sustainability.

-Failure to maintain the desired spatial quality.

-Ignoring the native culture of the region.

-Lack of security in the designed spaces.

Incorporating social sustainability into urban development requires the collaboration of architects, planners, and policymakers to create inclusive and sustainable environments. As emphasized by Yadav and Kumari, urban designs should prioritize gender inclusivity and address the diverse needs of all inhabitants [15].

This results highlights the importance of integrating social sustainability into the design of public spaces, particularly urban complexes and garden halls. By focusing on the needs and preferences of the users, the designs can foster social interactions, improve quality of life, and contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious urban environment.

Conclusion

Lang’s definition of social sustainability emphasizes the necessity for individuals to reside in specific locations, underscoring the importance of fostering long-term sustainability [31]. This study examined factors that influence social sustainability and social interactions in architectural design, with a particular focus on garden hall complexes. These findings offer critical insights into how architectural decisions shape social dynamics, well-being, and community resilience.

In addressing the first research question, the study revealed that several factors play a pivotal role in influencing social sustainability. These include attention to local culture, improving the quality of life, creating opportunities for collaboration, enhancing self-sufficiency, and considering geographical and climatic contexts. The physical environment also emerged as significant, with interviewees emphasizing the importance of architectural quality, visual aesthetics, and the avoidance of dead-end spaces. Most notably, factors such as promoting a sense of peace and comfort, nurturing a sense of belonging, and ensuring high-quality architectural spaces were ranked as top priorities. These findings suggest that architectural design is not merely about creating functional spaces but also about fostering emotional and psychological connections between individuals and their environments.

The broader implications of these findings indicate that socially sustainable design has the potential to address a wide range of societal needs. By prioritizing emotional comfort and a sense of belonging, architects can contribute to improved social cohesion, cultural preservation, and community well-being. Furthermore, attention to local cultural contexts and climate conditions enhances the relevance and adaptability of design solutions, ensuring they meet the specific needs of diverse populations. However, while these findings offer valuable insights, they also highlight the complexity of achieving social sustainability. Balancing diverse factors such as culture, geography, and collaboration requires a nuanced understanding of community dynamics, as well as a commitment to participatory design approaches.

The study also explored the consequences of integrating these factors into architectural design. Outcomes such as increased social cohesion, cultural enrichment, formation of sustainable societies, and social development were noted. Among these, individual and social welfare ranked highest, reflecting the strong link between social sustainability and the overall well-being of communities. These results demonstrate that when architectural design actively engages with social principles, it can lead to significant improvements in both individual quality of life and broader societal stability. However, it is important to acknowledge the potential limitations of these findings. The study’s reliance on interview data may introduce subjective biases, and future research should consider employing quantitative methods or longitudinal studies to validate these outcomes across different socio-cultural contexts.

In relation to the second research question, the study identified key factors that enhance social interactions in garden hall design. Accessibility and flexibility of spaces were ranked as the most important, followed closely by comfort and a sense of belonging. The creation of spaces that encourage assembly and interaction, as well as the utilization of participatory design methods, were also noted as critical. These findings suggest that social interactions can be significantly enhanced by designing spaces that are adaptable to a variety of uses, culturally sensitive, and inclusive. The emphasis on participatory design highlights the importance of involving communities in the design process to ensure that spaces meet their needs and foster meaningful social connections.

The implications of these findings for the broader field of architecture are substantial. As urbanization continues to accelerate, the need for socially sustainable and inclusive public spaces will become increasingly urgent. Garden halls and similar spaces offer a unique opportunity to promote social interaction, cultural expression, and community resilience. By prioritizing accessibility, cultural reinforcement, and spatial flexibility, architects can create environments that not only support individual well-being but also promote long-term social sustainability. However, achieving these outcomes requires overcoming a number of practical challenges, including budget constraints, regulatory limitations, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between architects, urban planners, and community stakeholders.

Despite the positive potential of these design principles, several limitations should be acknowledged. One of the primary challenges in realizing socially sustainable design is the variability in social, cultural, and economic contexts. What works in one community may not necessarily be applicable in another, and the transferability of these design principles should be carefully considered. Additionally, while the study highlights several factors that enhance social interactions, it does not fully explore the potential conflicts or trade-offs between these factors. For instance, prioritizing flexibility and adaptability may sometimes conflict with the desire to create culturally specific spaces, and navigating these tensions will require ongoing dialogue and experimentation.

Furthermore, the study’s findings suggest that the successful implementation of these principles depends on the physical and environmental context of the site. Features such as accessibility, security, public health considerations, and spatial quality were noted as essential for fostering social interactions in garden hall complexes. The role of green spaces and compatibility with the surrounding environment also emerged as significant. These elements not only contribute to the overall aesthetic and functional quality of a space but also play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and belonging. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these design interventions may be limited by external factors such as urban policy, environmental regulations, and community engagement.

In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the factors that influence social sustainability and social interactions in architectural design. By prioritizing emotional comfort, accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and participatory design, architects can create spaces that foster social cohesion, cultural enrichment, and community resilience. However, achieving these outcomes requires careful consideration of local contexts, ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, and a commitment to adapting design solutions to meet the evolving needs of society. Future research should explore how these design principles can be applied in different cultural and geographic contexts, as well as examine the long-term impacts of socially sustainable design on community well-being and resilience.

Research Suggestions

Given the significant role that public spaces play in fostering social sustainability, the following research recommendations are proposed. These suggestions aim to address both the gaps identified in the current study and broader areas for further exploration, taking into account the complexities and nuances of different contexts:

1.Diverse Contexts of Public Spaces: Research should explore public spaces’ functions in various cultural, social, and environmental contexts, both in Iran and globally. Comparative studies across urban and rural settings could reveal best practices for enhancing social interaction, inclusivity, and community resilience. Longitudinal studies tracking changes in public space use over time would provide insights into how urban development impacts social sustainability.

2.Mixed-Methods Approach to User Perspectives: While qualitative methodologies like grounded theory are essential for capturing user experiences, a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative data is needed. Surveys, behavioral observations, and spatial analyses can offer a comprehensive understanding of public space usage and help develop user-centric solutions addressing social equity issues.

3.Multidimensional Sustainability Framework: Future research should apply a more comprehensive social sustainability framework that includes environmental and economic dimensions. Comparative studies can examine factors influencing the success of public spaces in promoting social interaction, cultural integration, and environmental stewardship, offering valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers.

4.Role of Technology in Public Spaces: As urban environments integrate more technology, future research should explore how digital tools and data-driven design solutions can enhance social interaction, inclusivity, and engagement in public spaces. Additionally, participatory design processes enabled by technology can ensure public spaces meet evolving community needs [32, 33].

5.Challenges in Public Space Design: Research should also address challenges such as gentrification, exclusionary design practices, and the underutilization of public spaces due to socio-political factors. Identifying these limitations will help create more equitable public space planning strategies.