Author(s)

R. Qawasmeh

Abstract

This study presents the development of an assessment tool model that evaluates the quality of urban life (QOUL) in residential neighbourhoods in Doha, Qatar, based on a substantial literature review of the QOUL concept. The tool aims to assess the built environment qualities and the level of satisfaction of the residents based on their real interaction and relationship with their living built environment. The study introduces aspects and criteria that should be considered for improving the physical qualities of the residential neighbourhoods and contributes towards enhancing its social and perceptual dimensions. This assessment tool follows a framework to direct its investigation, which consists of two dimensions. The first stage assesses and tests the urban quality (UQ) in the neighbourhood, primarily to evaluate the built environment attributes and examines human behaviour, interaction and urban activity. The second stage assesses and determines the level of residential satisfaction and attachment (RS) in the neighbourhoods by users in order to determine an effective appraisal of users with their built environment elements. The conclusion provides an understanding of the significant physical, social, and perceptual aspects in residential areas in Doha to assist urban designers in specifying the major needs of the residences, as well as to support the improvement of Doha’s neighbourhood legislation that corresponds to Doha’s climate, culture and social situation. Another important aspect was to improve the assessment tool with specific aspects and criteria that can be used in future studies and future residential development.

Keywords

quality of urban life (QOUL), quality of life, residential satisfaction, urban qualities, assessment tool