Investigating Livability in Mixed-Use Neighborhoods. Case Study of Najma in Doha, Qatar

The research focuses on investigating mixed-use neighborhoods in Doha, especially in the area of expansion between the B and C Ring roads that were built under speculative pressure during the 1960s to 1970s. The research aim is to develop urban policies and guidelines, based on livability principles that can aid the growth and development of a mixed-use neighborhood. The study measures and analyzes existing aspects in Doha mixed use neighborhoods, aiming to identify the distinct and particular nature of mixed-use neighborhoods in Doha. The increasing population of Qatar and the introduction of new mega development projects have increased the need for proper urban planning and integration between existing and new districts. The result of this study will help to provide a set of design policies that address the urban identity of mixed-use neighborhood with the aim of preserving the local identity of these neighborhoods and their vitality in the long run and enhancing the quality of open spaces, walkability, connectivity and their general livability. The following research study, through investigating the livability of mixed use neighborhoods and users’ satisfaction and perception of the neighborhood, will contribute to the development of urban design principles that employs specifics guidelines for mixed-use urban neighborhoods. These guidelines can be used by scholars, urban planners and governmental institutions such as the Ministry of Municipality & Environment or Qatar Museum Authority, as recommendations or as a reference to aid in the revitalization of old mixed-use neighborhoods. Furthermore, it will incorporate rules and standards that can be applied to future planning of mixed-use urban development. The findings of this research will help urban planners and stakeholders to design better mixed-use neighborhoods that address and accommodate users’ physical and social needs, wants and aspirations; designed and built while taking into account the environmental conditions of the region

Assessment of Aesthetic Control in Qatar’s Urban Design

Aesthetic control is concerned with the visual appearance of the built environment, specifically in the urban setting. The built environment aesthetics can directly influence place identity, property values and the business owners’ financial status in the area. People’s behavior in terms of choosing a place to live or do business is also affected by the locality’s aesthetics. Qatar has invested heavily in the built environment over the last two decades, which has shed light on the importance of government adopted aesthetic control measures to preserve the identity of Qatar’s built form. This paper reviews the current control measures and provides some directions to adopt in the building permit process in support of Qatar’s National Master Plan 2032. The paper recommends a strategy to the Ministry of Municipality and Environment for a swift implementation of aesthetic/design control in Qatar until a fully integrated solution is adopted to align with the built environment as proposed in the Qatar National Master Plan 2032. Digital tools can foster designs that can restore the quality of compromised ecosystems. A partnership platform can be created between the building permit unit and pre-selected private design-oriented consultants. Lastly, this research initiative could be used by other countries subject to similar development dynamics as a precedent to further develop their own aesthetic control measures