Urban Physical Examination and Hypernetwork Analysis for Shenzhen, China: A Livability-Driven Sustainable Development Study

Rapid global urbanization has intensified the need for cities to transition from growth-oriented models to sustainable development frameworks that prioritize livability, environmental quality, and social equity, positioning urban physical examination as an essential methodology for guiding this transformation. This study analyzes the spatial–temporal evolution of Shenzhen’s sustainable urban transformation from 2020 to 2024, employing urban physical examination methodologies combined with hypernetwork analysis to evaluate livability enhancement strategies. The research develops an economic vitality index incorporating urban points of interest density, Habitat Environment Index, and land surface temperature. Through spatial optimization analysis and hypernetwork modeling, the study examines the evolution of Shenzhen’s economic vitality and sustainable development patterns, with a particular focus on the impacts of economic centralization on regional sustainability and habitability. Results show Shenzhen’s economic vitality index increased by 10.47% from 2020 to 2024. However, regional disparities persist, with western and central regions displaying higher vitality than eastern coastal areas. The hypernetwork analysis reveals clustering patterns in livable spaces, with connectivity indicators ranging from 3.75 to 3.86. The uneven distribution of public facilities in Longgang and Yantian Districts highlights the need for improved resource allocation. These findings provide evidence-based support for sustainable urban space strategies in rapidly developing cities, emphasizing the importance of equitable resource allocation and community-centered planning approaches.