Urban Design Discourse

Explaining the Conceptual Model of the Cultural Representation Circuit of Urban Public Space with a Cultural Approach

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Research

Authors

Fatemeh Aghnaei Alanjagh 1
Mohammad taghi Pirbabaei 2

1 Ph.D. Candidate in Islamic Urbanism, Faculty of Architecture & Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.

2 Professor, Faculty of Architecture & Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University,Tabriz, Iran.

10.48311/udd.2026.112501.0
Abstract
Aims:The aim of this study is to develop and explain a conceptual model of the “cultural representation circuit of urban public space,” which systematically captures and interprets the cultural processes that shape public space.

Methods:This research adopts a qualitative approach based on documentary study and content analysis. First, reputable academic sources on public space and its cultural aspects were collected and selected using criteria such as authenticity and thematic relevance. Then, the data were analyzed and coded through qualitative content analysis to identify the main components and indicators related to Hall’s cultural circuit.

Findings:The analysis revealed five key components—production, consumption, identity, signification, and regulation—that together form the cultural representation circuit. These components interact dynamically; a change in one can reshape the others. For instance, design decisions during the production phase influence patterns of consumption and identity formation, while cultural representations can affect subsequent cycles of spatial production.

Conclusion:The proposed model addresses the existing theoretical gap by providing an integrated framework for analyzing the cultural meaning-making process in public spaces. Beyond its theoretical contribution, the model can serve as an analytical tool for urban planners, designers, and managers in evaluating and designing public spaces, and it is adaptable for testing across diverse cultural contexts.

Keywords

Public space
culture
meaning representation
cultural circuit
conceptual model

Subjects

Urban Design Discourse

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 18 April 2026

  • Receive Date 01 November 2025
  • Accept Date 18 April 2026
  • First Publish Date 18 April 2026
  • Publish Date 18 April 2026

Home

Guide for Authors

Submit Manuscript

Reviewers

Contact Us