Spatial cognition and nostalgia in transformed social spaces: evidence from Erbil, Iraq

The transformations in architectural design have led to new developments in commercial settings that have affected perceptions, experience, and memories of individuals. In this research, the old Qaisery Bazaar and modern shopping malls in Erbil were considered to assess the relationship between spatial layout and perception and nostalgia in commercial environments. A mixed-method approach was adopted in this study utilizing space syntax and a survey with 133 participants. The results obtained through this research indicate that the shopping malls offer greater legibility and ease of wayfinding, but the bazaar gives greater attachment and nostalgic experience for users. Regression analysis indicated that sensory richness, symbolic identity, temporal continuity, and social interaction are important factors influencing nostalgia but not spatial layout and wayfinding. Space syntax analysis indicates that the shopping mall has high spatial integration, but the complexity of the bazaar promotes exploration and interaction.