Journal of Tourism and Development

Journal of Tourism and Development

Evaluating the role of biophilic architectural elements in the development of urban tourism (Case study: Tabriz city)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Zahra Aghabalaei Khordechi 1
Masoud Haghlesan 2
1 PhD student in Urban Planning, Department of Urban Planning, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
2 - Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Ilk. C ., Islamic Azad University, Ilkhchi, Iran
10.22034/jtd.2025.496219.3001
Abstract
Biophilic architecture, as one of the new approaches in designing urban environments, plays a key role in the sustainable development of tourism and strengthening human interaction with nature. This research aims to evaluate the impact of the three main elements of biophilic architecture, namely "native vegetation", "access and interaction with natural landscapes", and "optimization of light and natural ventilation", on the development of urban tourism in Tabriz. The purpose of this research is of an applied type and is mixed in methodological terms. In the quantitative part, a questionnaire based on the Likert scale was used, and the sample size was 384 based on the Cochran formula, considering visitors over a period of 10 months (80,000 people). In the qualitative part, data were collected through content analysis of documents, including library information and related maps, as well as semi-structured interviews with 20 experts in the fields of urban development, architecture, and urban management and planning. The qualitative data were manually analyzed by explaining the 3-step coding including open, axial and selective coding. SPSS software and explaining the statistical method of T-test were used to analyze the research data. The results indicate that by integrating biophilic principles into the urban architecture of Tabriz, this city can become a more attractive destination for tourists. Natural features such as green space, water features and natural light in public spaces create a positive experience for visitors. Also, the findings show that biophilic design in Tabriz can improve the quality of the environment and have positive psychological effects on visitors by creating attractive and relaxing spaces.
Keywords
Biophilic Architecture
Urban Environments
Sustainable Development
Urban Tourism
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