INTEGRATIVE SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE/LANDSCAPE DESIGN FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT IN UNPLANNED URBAN SETTLEMENTS: THE CASE OF NAZZAL, AMMAN

In developing countries, rapid urban growth leads to significant degradation in the natural environment especiallywithin unplanned contexts that lack resources. This study focuses on the need of finding some strategies that arecontext-sensitive for enhancing the environmental sustainability within such areas. The study develops aframework with integrative design approaches that combine both sustainable architecture and sustainablelandscaping design principles. Within its methodological framework, the study conducts a comprehensive reviewof relevant studies, as well as reviews cases from around the world, such as BedZED and Dockside Green, toinform the development of guidelines with criteria that effectively enhance the environment in unplanned urbancontexts and applies it on the case of the unplanned neighborhood of Nazzal in Amman, Jordan, that is known tobe facing crucial environmental challenges. For data collection, the study conducts site observations, questionnairesurveys with local community members as well as expert groups, and detailed mapping analysis of problematicareas within the study area. Specific design guidelines with recommendations that consider communityengagement are generated by the study, which correspond to the environmental challenges of the context of thestudy area, including mitigating the urban heat island effect and enhancing green spaces, among others. Thefindings of the study contribute to providing insights to effective planning for urban planners, policymakers, localauthorities, and community stakeholders that seek environmental sustainable enhancement to their unplannedchallenging urban contexts, which further contribute to the broad field of sustainable urban development in similarcontexts.