Enhancing Spatial Legibility through Building Layout Optimization: The Case of Erbil City Shopping Malls

Ghanim, Sally; Mustafa, Faris Ali

doi:10.21608/jesaun.2025.399825.1590

Enhancing Spatial Legibility through Building Layout Optimization: The Case of Erbil City Shopping Malls

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Sally Ghanim ¹
Faris Ali Mustafa ²

¹ Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq

² Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Erbil, Iraq

10.21608/jesaun.2025.399825.1590

Abstract

This paper investigates the integration of Architectural Design Optimization (ADO) into architectural design to improve shopping mall layouts. It aims to address the research gap by developing a comprehensive framework for optimizing spatial legibility in shopping mall layouts. The methodology employed a multi-method approach, combining qualitative (researcher's checklist) and quantitative (genetic algorithm, GA) methods in data processing and statistical analysis. Seven shopping malls in Erbil City with different spatial layout typologies served as case studies. Results demonstrated significant improvements in spatial legibility through GA-optimized layouts, resulting in a substantial reduction in occlusivity, an increased visibility area, shorter path lengths, and reduced navigation times. Statistical analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between visibility and navigation efficiency, and that functional aspects of layouts contribute more significantly to spatial legibility than intangible design elements. Surprisingly, linear layouts, rather than hybrid layouts, appeared more effective in accommodating diverse user preferences. The study concluded that the use of GA provides an effective, data-driven approach to improving architectural designs, going beyond traditional qualitative judgments. The novelty of this approach lies in its pioneering application as a systematic optimization technique for the spatial planning of shopping malls, providing quantitative improvements to design elements such as spatial visibility and wayfinding, ultimately enhancing the overall user experience.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Architecture Engineering and the Engineering Architectural Interior Design.

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