IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section A

Abstract

Robustness, defined as a space’s ability to accommodate change without significant alteration in its physical form, is a critical determinant of a public space’s adaptability and utilization. This research delves into the evaluation of the robustness of public spaces within a historic precinct in Bhopal, examining factors identified in existing literature and uncovering additional considerations through empirical studies. With its rich tapestry of historical significance spanning from the medieval era to the present, Bhopal serves as an exemplary case study for this study, offering a unique lens into the challenges and opportunities of preserving and adapting historic urban environments. The qualitative research methodology employed encompassed questionnaire surveys and interviews conducted on selected exploration sites. The study validates the influence of key factors identified in the literature on the properties of a robust place. Furthermore, empirical investigations reveal additional factors unique to the historic context of Bhopal, significantly affecting the utilization and robustness of public spaces. Intriguingly, certain factors identified in the literature as harming robustness were found to contribute positively to the robustness of these historic spaces during empirical studies. This research fills gaps in robustness literature by aligning theory with observed impacts, providing insights for conserving historic public spaces. Understanding factors influencing robustness offers a nuanced perspective to prevent obsolescence of historic public spaces, emphasizing the importance of adaptive conservation strategies. The implications extend globally, serving as a valuable reference for urban planners, architects, and conservationists in enhancing the resilience of historic urban public spaces and preserving their cultural significance.