Spatial Liminality as a Framework for Revitalising Dilapidated Abandoned Buildings in Historic Cities: A Case Study

Dilapidated abandoned buildings (DABs) in historic cities contribute to the breakdown of sense of community identification and place, indicating a lack of spatial liminality. This study introduces spatial liminality as an epistemological tool for revitalizing disused urban fabrics, demonstrating that in-between spaces once facilitated spatial liminality, which was crucial for the formation of sense of place and citizenship during premodern eras. Using a mixed-method approach—combining questionnaire surveys, field studies, and interpretive historical analysis—the research investigates 12 urban blocks in historic Yazd and Kashan. The findings suggest that reutilizing DABs while preserving their heritage values can restore spatial liminality and strengthen community identity.

Tavakoli, H., Hedayati Marzbali, M., & Maghsoodi Tilaki, M. J. (2023). Spatial Liminality as a Framework for Revitalising Dilapidated Abandoned Buildings in Historic Cities: A Case Study. Land, 12(4), 931. https://doi.org/10.3390/land12040931