Journal of South Architecture

A Study on Placeness Evaluation of the Suzhou Pingjiang Historical and Cultural Block: From the Perspective of Tourist Perceptions

RENLu (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology), WANGYong (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology)

Abstract


This study analyzes and evaluates abstract placeness and proposes strategies to enhance the placeness of the Pingjiang Historical Block by integrating the perceptions of multiple subjects, namely tourists and indigenous residents, providing a reference for the development and protection of historical and cultural blocks. Based on the dimensions of placeness perception proposed by Relph, and taking the Suzhou Pingjiang Historical and Cultural Block as a case study, grounded theory was used to extract elements from tourists’ perception content. Combined with the characteristics of historical blocks, a structural equation model for placeness evaluation was established, comprising three dimensions: material landscape, human actions, and local meaning. Empirical research reveals that the placeness of the Pingjiang Historical Block exhibits an incomplete expression of local meaning caused by spatial fragmentation and redundant symbols. Therefore, in the protection and utilization of historical and cultural blocks, disharmonious elements at all spatial and social levels must be standardized to accurately convey local meaning.

Keywords


placeness; tourist perceptions; Pingjiang Historical and Cultural Block

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.33142/jsa.v3i3.20296

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