In-Site Phenotype of the Settlement Space along China’s Grand Canal Tianjin Section: GIS-sDNA-Based Model Analysis

Research reveals that settlements along China's Grand Canal Tianjin Section exhibit dynamic, multi-causal phenotypes linked to commercial trade and public-service facilities. The study found that industry-dominant settlements demonstrate stronger topological integration and attractiveness in their centers, while the daily movement of citizens closely correlates with the distribution of public services. Using field investigations, space syntax, and GIS analysis, the authors quantified the in-site characteristics of 18 rural settlements, providing new standards for categorization and conservation strategies. This work offers innovative approaches to preserve and renew these culturally significant heritage sites amid rapid urbanization.

Zhao, Y., Yan, J.-W., Li, Y., Bian, G.-M., & Du, Y.-Z. (2022). In-Site Phenotype of the Settlement Space along China’s Grand Canal Tianjin Section: GIS-sDNA-Based Model Analysis. Buildings, 12(4), 394. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12040394