Revitalization of Oudlajan Neighborhood Through Placemaking

The historic neighborhood of Oudlajan, located in the heart of Tehran, possesses a rich legacy of social, economic, and cultural interactions. Today, however, it faces challenges such as physical deterioration, the migration of native residents, and the erosion of its urban identity. This study aims to revitalize the neighborhood through the placemaking approach, seeking to preserve its cultural heritage while restoring socio-economic vitality and a sense of place.
The research methodology includes a literature review on placemaking and the revitalization of historic urban fabrics, analysis of three successful international case studies (Superkilen, Times Square, and Oslo), and a comprehensive assessment of Oudlajan’s current conditions. This assessment draws on historical data, spatial analysis (GIS), and existing studies—particularly datasets provided by Negin Shahr Consulting and findings from previous researchers—supplemented by limited field data collected directly by the author. This process enabled the identification of key opportunities, challenges, and priority areas for intervention.
The results indicate that applying placemaking principles—such as active community participation, creation of multifunctional public spaces, strengthening the connection between the bazaar and surrounding areas, and the creative use of cultural elements—can enhance quality of life, reinforce historical identity, and stimulate the local economy. The proposed framework offers a practical model for revitalizing historic urban fabrics, with the potential to be adapted for other heritage neighborhoods in Iran.

I presented the conceptual design and proposed strategies for revitalizing the central fabric of the Oudlajan neighborhood, utilizing placemaking principles. The process began with an assessment of the needs and priorities of local stakeholders, followed by the identification of key intervention points and spatial opportunities. We then applied a participatory design approach and developed spatial scenarios to address the neighborhood's physical, social, and economic challenges.
The outcomes of this process include detailed design proposals and practical solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of public spaces, reinforcing historical identity, and promoting improved social interactions and economic vitality.
It is important to note that the final synthesis of this research, including an evaluation of the achievement of objectives and responses to the research questions, will be provided in Chapter Six. This chapter will also explore the connection between the findings presented here and the theoretical framework, as well as offer policy and operational recommendations to guide the ongoing revitalization and sustainable development of the neighborhood.