Select the Basic Design Characteristic of Seating Zone in Outdoor Spaces in Mosul, Iraq as a Case Study

A lot of research has been done on the historical and societal importance of outdoor seating in the Middle East. Several works [11, 12] look at how Islamic traditions have affected the design of public places. That is why Nooruddin's research is mostly about looking into the idea of "al-Fina'" as a key factor in shaping the way Islamic towns are built. Furthermore, study [13] gives a more thorough look at this idea in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where creating public spaces is seen to boost social interaction and promote community health. This article [14] adds to the previous discussion by looking at Southeast Asia and focusing on the welcoming urban design and planning features connected with the idea of Islamic public space. These works show the importance that public spaces and outdoor seating have been in the Middle East through history and local design.

The evolution and application of social spaces have changed over time, reflecting the societal frameworks and cultural practices that were dominant during different eras. Cafes in Baghdad have historically served as important social spaces for fostering interpersonal connections, acquiring knowledge, and collaboratively resolving challenges [15].

As mentioned [16], the courtyard was in Ottoman mosques that operated as places for people to gather and focused on creating a nice environment in which the introduction of caravans to the landscape helped to radically change the concept of public seats in those places during the Middle Ages precisely as stated as places for sale and purchase [17]. This change in function has served various purposes achieved by seating seats in sophisticated cities as in the urban arrangement of stone-made seats in the city of Florence [17].

The Netherlands has made advancements in creating outdoor meeting spaces specifically designed for the elderly, as documented [5]. Additionally, research [18] highlights the growing appeal of traditional Persian gardens as communal gathering areas. The design of outdoor rest chairs in coastal sites, such as those in Mosul, can enhance public areas and foster social interaction [19].

Diverse cultures' public spaces should represent their social, cultural, and economic aspects [4, 20]. People's mobility and sitting habits greatly affect a city's public spaces. As seen in Figure 1. The city's outdoor seating arrangements have historical significance owing to its mixed population and its status as a hub for Sunni Muslims, namely Kurds and Turkmen [21]. Kelsey [23] found in 2018 that outdoor sitting improves urban living. Outdoor seating allows people to understand their surroundings and encourages socializing [22, 23].

According to reports, individuals in these environments engage in activities such as engaging in conversations, monitoring each other, indicating neighboring structures, and seeing street performers [23].

The enhanced efficiency of these regions is attributed to many design elements. Incorporating youth development activities into these environments is a crucial component of the equation [24]. Hence it can be said that the process of mixing permanent architectural elements with flexible furniture can be involved in increasing opportunities for community participation [25].

The main objective in these places is to focus on an important element, namely the comfort and varied levels of people living in the outdoors, whether it be planned or designed for those places. Shade is one of the most important elements to consider when designing for outdoors and its integration with plants in the same location with air and water quality, as these ingredients are considered to have a very significant effect in improving thermal comfort in such places [26]. They have emerged in tropics as semi-outdoor education environments by providing protected seats and beautiful adjacent areas as affecting individuals and their preferences [27]. Furthermore, reference should be made to the role of cultural and social elements in the arrangement and design of these sites, as stated [22]. Having outdoor spaces that are thoughtfully designed with adequate amenities increases social communication and motivates people to stay somewhat longer and establishes connections between individuals and vice versa functioning poorly designed environments [28].

Architects and designers play a vital role in shaping and influencing these physical settings. According to study [28], the designs have a notable influence on both the aesthetic attractiveness of the space and the characteristics of social interactions that take place within it. According to study [29], the furniture discovered in these locations, such as benches, offers a combination of adaptability and coziness. The seating components are adjustable, enabling different configurations to accommodate various functional situations. The introduction of outdoor seating has substantial psychological effects on individuals' well-being and mental state. Asserts that the configuration of these settings in public places has the power to affect social interaction and behavior [22]. The subject of inquiry concerns the notion of community development and its relationship with social engagement. Outdoor seating areas in urban settings are essential for fostering social relationships and encouraging active participation in civic matters.

Bench seating in urban locations promotes community participation and social relationships [30]. Environmental influences are crucial in all industries. This examines how green seating zones may promote urban sustainability from an environmental perspective. Green sitting zones in metropolitan areas have been shown to improve several aspects of the environment [31]. These factors encompass the improvement of air quality, reduction of urban heat islands, and promotion of urban biodiversity.

Many studies have been done on outdoor seats, but none have addressed Mosul. Urban design studies didn't include Mosul's rich cultural background or its post-war surroundings, especially when creating outdoor spaces. The contrast suggests that additional research is needed to combine generic design concepts with the conductor's specific cultural and historical elements to create the finest city solutions as shown in Table 1.

Table 1. Overview of the key metrics derived from literature review

4.1 Structured public spaces

Designed seating places, such gazebos, and benches, take use of riverfront vistas, promoting relaxation and social interaction. Figure 2 well-defined pedestrian walkways reflect a purposeful effort to create multifunctional areas for leisure and cultural interaction. Lighting and concrete pathways indicate these spaces are used at night, extending their use. Although well-intentioned, seating arrangements are generally sparse and lack a consistent design language, resulting in a lack of a sense of place. Formal seating is limited and does not fully realize the potential for establishing more welcoming common spaces that encourage longer stays.

4.2 Informal seating areas

Include resourcefulness and adaptability, as seen using readily available materials. Informal settings allow spaces to be rapidly repurposed or changed for community needs or social events. Lack of a consistent design approach clutters the space and may reduce its functionality. Unorganized furnishings and poor user experience can discourage continuous use. These informal spaces lack safety and comfort, with exposed electrical outlets and uneven seating shown in Figure 3.

Both groups provide outdoor sitting in Mosul, but their implementation and commitment to design principles that support the assumptions differ. Group 1 is more thoughtful, although it might use better planning and design to improve use and aesthetics. Group 2 is adaptable and sensitive to community requirements, but it lacks strategic design to improve safety, comfort, and appeal.

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Figure 2. Structured public spaces

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Figure 3. Informal public seating spaces

Data was collected over a set interval to give participants time to think before responding. About 50 individuals were surveyed to determine their motivation to participate. Several declined participations. The data was then analyzed using chi-square values and significant sentiments, which are nominal markers of respondents' responses.

6.1 Data analysis H1

"The arrangement and utilization of seating in open-air environments are impacted by cultural, historical, and social circumstances."

To validate this hypothesis, a thorough questionnaire has been created, including various aspects. This questionnaire is based on past research and aims to confirm the first hypothesis, as indicated in Table 5.

Data will be collected from random user questionnaires and outdoor seating images of outdoor seating in Mosul City. The aim was to document seat designs and study user preferences and behavior based on cultural, historical, and social influences. To identify patterns that link seating arrangements to the social and cultural background of the conductor, focusing on contextual design in outdoor spaces.

6.1.1 Cultural and historical significance

19/50 respondents insulted historic outdoor seating. Eight responders mentioned Mosul's history and culture. Cultural and historical features should be included in seat designs. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 5.52, and the level of significance was 0.137, which is greater than 0.05.

6.1.2 Societal benefit

25 respondents loved to sit social outdoors. Nine said community activities were necessary, while twelve said they were informal meeting places. Despite their widespread use of society and informal gathering, four interviewees felt that these sites did not increase social interaction. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 6.029, and the importance level was 0.110, which is greater than 0.05.

6.1.3 Contemplation on Social Values

Six showed high social values reflection, 23 moderates, 12 negative, and 9 none. These show many ways Mosul sitting spaces mirrored culture. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 13.2, and the level of significance was 0.004, less than 0.05.

6.1.4 Promote community gatherings

Opinions varied. Most of the 25 participants supported community gatherings moderately. Due to the spacious and inviting designs, 12 participants voiced significant support. However, numerous participants reported infrequent support due to poor design or seating arrangement.

The value of the chi-square coefficient was 19.28, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

6.1.5 Historical themes

Seat designs reflected history differently. 12 respondents felt historical integration was moderate, 11 crucial, 10 highly valued, 9 not considered, and 8 irrelevant and rarely incorporated. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 1.00, and the level of significance was 0.910, which is greater than 0.05.

6.1.6 Effect on social activities

19 people reported major and somewhat pleasant results, 10 claimed minor improvement, and 2 stated it hindered social activities. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 16.080, and the SIG level was 0.001, 19 people reported major and somewhat pleasant results, 10 claimed minor improvement, and 2 stated it hindered social activities. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 16.080, and the SIG level was 0.001 less than 0.05.

6.1.7 Meeting frequency

24 respondents met occasionally, 13 met many times per week, 9 rarely or never used the seating, and 4 met daily with family and friends. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 17.360, and the SIG level was 0.001, less than 0.05.

6.1.8 Cultural and historical preferences

19 respondents liked classic patterns, 15 didn't care, 11 liked statues or art installations, and 5 liked informative inscriptions or placards. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 8.560, and the SIG level was 0.036, less than 0.05.

6.1.9 Attendance at public events

Seating affected 22 respondents' event and festival attendance. Eight respondents didn't think seating arrangements affected them, while thirteen did. 7 people skipped these events regardless of seating. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 11.280, and the SIG level was 0.01, less than 0.05.

6.1.10 Variety in social activities

Some 18 respondents noted seating variety but thought it might be better. Variety disappointed 12 respondents, while 10 liked it. Ten additional respondents saw no diversity. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 3.440, and the SIG level was 0.329, which is greater than 0.05.

Table 5. A summary of the replies, Chi-Square values, and SIG levels for the data collection and analysis

6.2 Data analysis H2

A 50-person assessment of Mosul City's outdoor sitting. Contemporary Design Elements Improve Comfort, Safety, and Aesthetics. To validate this hypothesis, a thorough questionnaire has been created, including various aspects. This questionnaire is based on past research and aims to confirm the second hypothesis, as indicated in Table 6.

Hypothesis 2 will be tested using outdoor seating images in the conductor with random questionnaires. The aim is to visually document the design aspects with emphasis on the user getting them comfort and security while using their aesthetic views of the place. The expected result is a preference for well-designed seating spaces, with emphasis on the value of integrated design in outdoor spaces.

6.2.1 Comfort

Mosul's outdoor seats are good, since only two people liked them. Ten of the subjects said they felt basic comfort. An unsettled score of 28.10 meant that the person was comfortable enough. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 29.040, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

This changing pleasure means that the design doesn't meet the comfort needs of the community, which means that an open design is needed. According to the feedback, we should look again at functional, material, and environmental design factors to make urban design users feel better and improve their experience.

6.2.2 Safety in places to sit

Eight of the people who answered felt very safe, which means they had a lot of faith in the design's safety; fifteen felt secure, which means they were mostly happy with the safety measures; 23 felt somewhat safe, which meant they were mostly happy with the safety measures but had some concerns or ideas for how to make them better; and four felt unsafe. Also - The value of the chi-square coefficient was 16.720, and the SIG level was 0.001, less than 0.05.

This means that even though a lot of people use the sitting areas and think they are safe, a big chunk of them is worried about their safety. This shows that safety measures, better lighting, visibility, or general changes to the way the space is designed are needed to make public spaces safer.

6.2.3 Aesthetic value

Only two Mosul respondents liked the sitting, showing little audience interest. Design pleased 10. 29 thought the site pleasant but unremarkable. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 32.080, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

Though appealing, creative design, environmental interaction, or artistic or culturally significant components could make seats more visually appealing and attract more consumers.

6.2.4 Maintenance and cleanliness

Debate surrounds Mosul seating cleanup. Four clear patches. Twenty-one said it was good, meeting most expectations but inconsistent; eighteen said it was bad, displaying severe neglect; and twenty-one said it was bad. Poor upkeep worries many. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 14.320, and the SIG level was 0.003, less than 0.05. This shows that seating areas need more frequent and thorough cleaning to stay clean, functional, and attractive. Public space use and perceptions will improve.

6.2.5 Seating and durability materials

The weatherproofing and durability of Mosul's chairs are assessed from many angles: Twenty-six Fairly durable and weather-resistant and durable respondents suggested material improvements. Three rejoiced. Likeable yet brittle materials. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 29.2, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05. Stronger, waterproof materials should be used in outdoor seating area design and upkeep.

6.2.6 Seating area accessibility

Mosul controls sitting. Five respondents found few chairs convenient. 16 respondents indicated the sites were accessible, indicating minor obstacles. In the largest group, 23 respondents found sitting accessible but wanted improvement. Finally, 6 respondents found the locations inaccessible. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 17.680, and the SIG level was 0.001, less than 0.05.

So, raising worries about disabled, elderly, and young children using public spaces. Several propose making sitting easier. Better roads, signs, and design simplify navigation.

6.2.7 Seat design inclusivity

The Mosul seat design fails seniors, children, and disabled travelers. One respondent saying the design addressed all their needs indicates exclusion. The design satisfies user needs but might be improved, stated 14 respondents. The majority, 19, found the design difficult. In addition, 16 respondents judged the design undesirable, indicating serious concern. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 15.12, and the SIG level was 0.002, less than 0.05.

These remarks suggest a more inclusive design strategy that supports more physical abilities and preferences. This setup should make public chairs pleasant, accessible, and universal.

6.2.8 Lighting in seating areas

Mosul nighttime seated lighting mixed delight. One person enjoyed the lights. Most 31 respondents stated the lighting was fine, suggesting it may not improve mood or safety. 14 respondents identified major lighting issues that could compromise evening usability, safety, and comfort. Four respondents reported complete darkness, indicating insufficient illumination. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 43.920, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

These comments demonstrate that most facilities have good illumination but many seating areas don't. Many public places need better nighttime illumination for safety, use, and experience.

6.2.9 Protection environment

Environmentally, Mosul sitting spaces varies. Only 2 responders claimed full sun, wind, and rain protection, suggesting it's rare. 6 said some sitting is safe. Most (27 responders) indicated basic but inconsistent protection. 15. 15 respondents reported no protection. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 29.52, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

So, this shows many seated spaces lack environmental shielding. Different viewpoints emphasize the necessity for stronger design and infrastructure to protect and use outdoor seating areas year-round.

6.2.10 Natural integration

People have varying opinions regarding the geographical location of Mosul. Three individuals stated that the act of sitting diminishes in frequency when in natural surroundings. A moderate number of participants (19) observed that certain places were relatively integrated, suggesting a sense of harmony with nature and the potential for development. A group consisting of 22 participants said that the seating was not integrated, hence illustrating the incongruity between public spaces and natural surroundings. Six individuals observed a lack of congruence between the design and nature, as well as insufficient integration. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 21.20, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

So, Effective urban design should incorporate environmentally sustainable outdoor seats.

Table 6. A summary of the replies, Chi-Square values, and SIG levels for the data collection and analysis

6.3 Data analysis H3

A total of 50 individuals evaluated the soundness of the third hypothesis, which posits that "Outdoor seating places in Mosul are designed to Integrates environmental and health concerns" considerations. A survey comprising 10 questions, derived from previous studies, was devised to validate, or refute the third hypothesis, as indicated in Table 7.

Similar methods will be used to test the above two hypotheses using visual document images and random user questionnaires. The design elements of these outdoor seating spaces will be assessed for environmental and health sustainability. Existing seat designs must match the user's environmental and health concerns, demonstrating the importance of landscape design in public health and the environment.

6.3.1 Seating areas effects on the neighborhood

Mosul residents praised the "impact Seating Areas Effects on the Neighborhood ". Indeed, 23 of 50 respondents found it useful. These numbers show that most individuals think these firms benefit the community. However, 14 people indicated it had effect is neutral, suggesting they didn't know about the environmental benefits, or the plans don't address it. two person's perspective or environment clashing generates unfavorable reaction. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 18.00, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

These replies favor eco-friendly outdoor seating. Urban planning needs environmental awareness and progress, they say.

6.3.2 The influence of outdoor seating on physical well-being

Polls in Mosul vary on their health benefits. 35/50 Great, of them mention it's Significant contribution 17, 18 Contribution to some extent. Most participants felt there were good outdoor seats to expand and improve park and outdoor activities. Comfortable outdoor seats that are accessible encourage longer visits and greater exercise. 5 say it Do not contribute at all, 10 say hardly contributing. The value of the chi-square coefficient was 9.040, and the SIG level was 0.029, less than 0.05.

Inactivity, respondent seating, and hobbies may explain this. Most comments show that external seats in Mosul increase physical activity, but some show no health benefits. Outdoor seats are great, but design, location, and preferences are important.

6.3.3 Consider air quality

Mosul outdoor seating area design survey respondents want to know how design may improve air quality. 39 of 50 respondents strongly agree (15) or agree (24) that plant- or healthy-material seats improve air quality. Outdoor green seats. 11 respondents eight disagreeing and three strongly disagreeing are skeptical of chair air quality measures.

The value of the chi-square coefficient was 19.92, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

Urban design's environmental impact is crucial; however, many don't think these methods work.

6.3.4 Pollution proximity

The Mosul outdoor seating questionnaire suggests pollution issues. Most participants (27) think seating locations are far from pollution sources, implying that they were chosen in clean, unpolluted areas. This choice may improve users' and overall health. However, 16 respondents indicated seating areas were rarely cleaned and 3 said they were never cleaned, suggesting maintenance issues. Four non-polluted participants set a modest aim to ameliorate the situation, whereas a few recommended relocating chairs.

The value of the chi-square coefficient was 30.80, and the SIG level was 0.000, less than 0.05.

These remarks suggest that the location of seats for pollution is becoming increasingly significant and that public seating locations should be cleaned and maintained regularly to encourage positive use.

6.3.5 Access to natural spaces

Chi-square's calculated value was 32.08. The level of importance (sig) is 0.000, indicating significant statistical differences in access to landscape seats. These differences reflect different views on how these areas affect accessibility. While noting that this category has greatly increased its potential, (5) firmly believes in facilitating access to chairs in the surrounding areas, while recognizing its importance in improving mobility and accessibility. Most of the 29 people think it is possible to get landscape seats, though it is less common than the first group. This group claims that the availability of the seat does not affect the enjoyment, accessibility, or usability of the viewing. This perspective is neutral about the immediate consequences of these sites. Some say that practical obstacles or ideas about their use can limit access to natural environments, but a small minority say only four people can.

Collective differences in access to seats in outdoors, landscapes and landscapes are not due to chance but to real inequalities. This underscores the need to protect and preserve natural areas in urban planning and environmental design to improve quality of life and accessibility.

6.3.6 Seating noise

Only a small number of participants (3) perceive a substantial level of noise protection, while a modest number of individuals (10) are adequately shielded. However, many participants (23) believe that the chairs do not offer adequate protection, and a large portion (14 people) feel completely exposed.

The value of the chi-square coefficient was 16.72, and the SIG level was 0.001, less than 0.05.

These findings highlight the necessity of improving the design and placement of outdoor seating areas to mitigate the impact of noise pollution. It is crucial to utilize barriers to minimize noise and improve the overall quality of the urban surroundings.

6.3.7 Incorporating green spaces

Mosul citizens differ in determining the complementary relationship between seating areas and green spaces. Five out of 50 said it was highly integrated with green spaces and good for sitting. There is the benefit of trees and plants from sitting. Many (19) claimed this integration exists but on neutrality the integration between seating areas and green spaces works and exists. But integration may vary by seating location or does not affect green space because 18 respondents have not decided. Lack of color or style may have prevented nature-inspired and better-suited designs. There are also those who have indicated that they are not 8.

The chi- squared coefficient is 11.92 and the SIG level is 0.800, which is below 0. Seating in Mosul's green spaces is important due to statistical discrepancies.

This suggests that this integration improves community life and public spaces by increasing people's perception and use of green spaces. These findings underscore the need to incorporate nature into urban development to make cities greener.

6.3.8 Design for heat reduction

Only 4 out of 50 participants identified patterns that contribute to decreased temperature, such as seeking covered areas or utilizing parachutes to mitigate cold and heat. 10 additional subjects reported the presence of these features, although in a feeble manner. However, 36 individuals assert that these attributes either do not exist or are not adequately efficient, suggesting that the design of climate-responsive outdoor areas need enhancement.

Participants have varied judgments about the heat reduction efficacy of exterior seating seats in Mosul, according to Kai squared analysis (Chi: 11.76) and level of indication (Sig: 0.008) less than 0.05.

These findings emphasize the need for climate-responsive outdoors architecture, especially in high-temperature locations like the conductor. To make outdoor seats more comfortable, utilize umbrellas, plants, or heat-diffusing materials. Low indicative values highlight moral statistical discrepancies supporting these results, emphasizing the need to adapt external designs for climate change.

6.3.9 Support for mental well-being

Six participants said peaceful, well-designed venues help mental wellness. Support from twelve participants suggests psychological calm improved slightly. Thirteen people found support effective, while 19 thought seating areas did not promote mental health.

Chi's analysis shows a squared of 6. 80 and an indicative level of 0. 079, above 0. 50, about Mosul's open seating seats' mental health advantages, contrasting perspectives.

Various perspectives from participants show how design and peace in public spaces effect people differently. Urban planning and public space design can improve psychological well-being by considering the mental health benefits of peaceful, well-designed settings of seats.

6.3.10 Encouraging physical activity

Outdoor seating may help Mosul people exercise, but opinions vary. Thirteen respondents indicated sitting strongly enhances movement, indicating it works to encourage people moving and exercising. Fifteen found it promising, suggesting it may increase exercise. Thirteen respondents don't think it encourages activity, while nine say it hinders it.

The value of the chi-square coefficient was 1.52, and the SIG level was 0.678, which is greater than 0.05.

There are no ethical statistical differences indicating that outdoor seating seats motivate the conductor to exercise. This means that this hypothesis has not been proven and we can say that outside seats do not enhance society's physical activity.

Participants' opinions illustrate how urban architecture influences customs and practices. Some people may rest and regenerate in outdoor chairs, encouraging them to stay out for longer and exercise more, while others may consider it the promotion of unwanted behaviors such as sitting for long periods without moving.

These findings emphasize the need for further research to understand how the urban environment and public spaces affect physical activity, public health, and the design of public spaces to encourage mobility and activity rather than negativity and inactivity.

Table 7. A summary of the replies, Chi-Square values, and SIG levels for the data collection and analysis

A field survey and thorough questionnaires on outdoor seating in Mosul revealed the community's desires. The photos demonstrated the big differences between designed and undesigned seats. Designed spaces preferred culturally relevant and useful seating integrated into the fabric for aesthetic and practicality. Undesigned spaces lacked comfort, accessibility, and cultural expression. The study found that Mosul residents and visitors seek inclusive, practical, and attractive outdoor seating, reflecting a shared vision for public spaces that foster interaction, showcase cultural history, and meet diverse needs. This research guides design interventions to transform Mosul's outdoor seating into community-enhancing areas that reflect its identity.