Placemaking Gjirokastra DORIANA MUSAJ
Author: Doriana Musaj
Affiliation: POLIS University
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify the urban elements which contribute to placemaking. By developing the quality of public space in collaboration with insider and outsider inhabitants, using the theoretical frameworks of Lynch, Alexander, and Jacobs, this study aims to explore the roots of the concepts, criteria, and experiences of placemaking. Field observation and interviews were used as primary data sources. Cityscape, its relief, landscape, and urban elements, and the data collected underwent descriptive analysis, the results of which served as a ground for the construction of research questions addressed during the qualitative study. Interviews as primary sources were part of the exploration of how people perceive their city, and which city images took part in creating the local activities. Results of the study show that there are great potential green areas inside the city core, which are disconnected from the urban space representing a fragmented edge. By revitalizing restoring and regenerating the original activities Gjirokastër as place could be rebuilt. Places we can't reach can't be valued or recognized as city values. A great public space is the one that is easy to get to, easy to enter into it, and walk-in or walk through. The city forms read two different frameworks: Kevin Lynch’s Image of the City, and Christofer Alexander’s The Nature of Order. Then the elements of the city are observed and analyzed through the lenses of Jane Jacobs, on their contribution to people’s perception, and how they contribute to the city life.
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