A Qualitative Analysis of the Role of Street Furniture in Representing Urban Identity: A Sociological Approach (Case Study: Andimeshk)

Document Type : Research-Mixed

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, Kish International Campus, Kish, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Boroujerd, Iran

3 Master's Graduate, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Boroujerd, Iran

10.22034/jasd.2026.602397.1040
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to qualitatively analyze the role of urban furniture in representing urban identity in the city of Andimeshk, adopting a sociological approach. Method: The study population consisted of Andimeshk citizens; 30 individuals were selected via purposive sampling until data saturation was reached. Data collection was conducted through in-depth semi-structured interviews, and data analysis utilized the Grounded Theory method. Findings: The results indicated that the key components regarding the conditions and contexts of urban design in representing urban identity include diversity, flexibility, accessibility and permeability, comfort and convenience, cleanliness, legibility and imageability, and identity preservation. Furthermore, the urban elements influencing identity representation—specifically identity-forming landscape elements—include thoroughfares, landmarks, origins and destinations, building facades, and urban furniture. Qualitative indicators include "sense of place" and "diversity-unity," while quantitative indicators involve allocating adequate space for pedestrians and considering viewing angles in spatial division through paving patterns. Conclusion: Increased migration from rural areas and small towns to large cities—and the resulting shortage of per capita urban space—has led to an unsightly urban image and a disruption of the city's identity and physical form; this issue can be remedied through the strategic placement of urban furniture and a sound sociological approach.

Keywords


  • Receive Date 12 May 2026
  • Revise Date 11 July 2026
  • Accept Date 19 August 2026