Zeynep Onur

This research addresses the neglect of sensory features, specifically the soundscape, in studies focused on preserving historic areas. The aim was to contribute to soundscape research by examining the effect of sound on the perception of urban historical places and the impact of the “renewal and transformation” process on audio-visual experiences. This study focused on the historical Erbil Citadel as a case study area, known for its extensive cultural history. Sound sources in the region were identified, recorded, and analyzed using software to calculate the Sound Pressure Level (SPL). The sound sources assessed as a result of the analysis were examined using Schafer’s sound characteristics. In this study, data was collected through a soundwalk study in the historical Erbil Citadel, and its surroundings were identified. The characteristics of the sounds were determined from the sound recordings, enabling the distinction of sounds contributing to the city’s identity. A route was established in its current state, and it was identified which regional precautions should be taken to preserve the sound identity of the city.

This study examined the incorporation of biophilic elements in Duhok preschool interiors and integrated them into the Biophilic Interior Design Matrix (BID-M). This approach holds great promise for the development of restorative environments. The Biophilic Design Matrix (BDM) is based on Kellert’s list of biophilic design attributes, adjusted to suit preschool interiors. Photos and plan drawings were employed as methods to analyze 59 interior spaces within six preschools, both private and public. The biophilic matrix revealed the presence of 30% of biophilic attributes in the analyzed spaces, with an average score of 16.45 out of 53 total points. Individual scores ranged from 8 to 22 for each space, highlighting variations in biophilic design within the six preschools. Notably, the study identified a lack of biophilic features that foster human–nature relationships in the majority of preschools, albeit minimally observed in some spaces. Conversely, the environmental features scored higher than the average. This research highlights the importance of enhancing biophilic design elements, especially those that strengthen human–nature relationships. The results enhance biophilic design in educational settings, promoting nature-centered, restorative environments for future interventions. Furthermore, we propose an innovative approach for assessing and incorporating biophilia in interiors, recognizing its positive impact on human health and wellbeing.

This study looks at the influence of place attachment on heritage discourse in contemporary places, specifically, Byzantine mosaics in Jordan, where the Byzantine Empire left behind a rich mosaic heritage. Today, these mosaics are replicated in contemporary architectural environments. The purpose of this article is to explore the heritage discourse surrounding Byzantine mosaics in Jordanian contemporary places with a particular focus on the replication and interpretation of the mosaics in contemporary places. To do that, the relationship between the attachments to the Byzantine mosaic places, the community’s level of awareness, and the replicated heritage discourse was examined. The research was conducted using several different methods, where structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to examine the relationship between these factors. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to assess the measurement models of the latent components and examine their construct validity and reliability. In addition, the study was conducted in Madaba Archaeological Park in the Jordanian city of Madaba, known as the “city of mosaics”, which is rich in tourism and culture, as a subject of study. The results show that the phenomena of heritage replications in contemporary places rely on the expanding interest in history, which is manifested through realizing the historical value and unique features of heritage. This attachment, knowledge, and understanding of heritage sites based on socio-cultural norms help shape the discourse of heritage replication in the contemporary built environment. These findings provide an understanding of the reasons behind the replication behavior of heritage designs in contemporary places, which can be supported in future research and used to create an appropriate contemporary sense of place. In addition to the possibility of using it as a strategy for the sustainability of heritage designs in local culture and contemporary places, not only in Jordan but also in other heritage environments, finally, some useful suggestions emerge on which future research can be based.