Exploring the Relationship between Urban Design and Social Capital: A Systematic Quantitative Literature Review

Abstract

The aim of this article is to explore the relationship between urban design and social capital in the existing literature. Through a systematic quantitative literature review (SQLR) approach, this study seeks to offer insights into this relationship, investigating trends and gaps. The review revealed that the relationship is complex and not well defined. It emphasised a consistency across the literature of references to the key historical figures and movements. Two major themes emerged as key topics of interest in the reviewed literature: the built environment outcomes and community participation. The research also revealed that the relationship between urban design and social capital is underexplored, with a lack of contemporary relevant references contributing to this topic. This deficiency results in a body of academic literature that does not fully address or reflect current industry practices and innovations. The review concludes that there is a need to shift focus globally. We need to incorporate multicultural references and case studies to learn from diverse contexts as well as multi-level collaborations between the designer and community to prepare for the different challenges that communities are currently grappling with.

Keywords

• urban design
• social capital
• neighbourhood design
• methods
• community
• health and wellbeing