Climate-driven differences on urban configuration: A space syntax analysis comparing Mediterranean and Saharan urban settlements in Algeria.

The climate and environmental context in which an urban settlement is located has a crucial role in shaping its configuration, urban form, and socio-spatial life. Places with mild climates tend to develop traditional urban layouts where built spaces are intertwined with open spaces, often with water and vegetation presence. These, tend to be centres of social interaction and co-presence within cities. In contrast, cities located in arid climates, face unique challenges in urban development. The scarce access to water allows for limited vegetation and fewer open spaces, as high exposure to the sun requires a more compact urban organization, where clusters of buildings or the presence of architectural elements are incorporated to provide shade. Considering the few configurational studies in the matter and increase in the heatwaves’ frequency that might come forth with climate changes in other parts of the world, this research provides initial insights in how climate characteristics can influence configuration in cities. Using Space Syntax angular analysis, six Algerian cities: Algiers, Béjaïa, and Mostaganem (Mediterranean cities), Biskra, Béchar, and Laghouat (Saharan cities) are compared. Focus is on describing patterns of relative accessibility, preferential routes, connectivity, and sprawl to unveil differences regarding mobility and morphology that emerge within these distinct kinds of settlements due to the climate in which they are placed. In that way, urban planners and policymakers can develop context-specific strategies to mitigate issues and address the unique challenges posed by the cities’ environmental setting, promoting sustainable, adaptable, and comfortable urban spaces, and their socio-spatial life.