Abstract

In Chilean cities, the lack of planning and fragmented urban growth are changing the lifestyles of neighborhood communities, and consequently leading to an unsustainable built environment. The aim of this study is to explore and evaluate sustainable urban conditions in two Chilean neighborhoods. This research explores nodality and connectivity, two dimensions of the built environment related with sustainability, as dimensions that could promote sustainability at the neighborhood level. Four methods elaborated by the community of space syntax theorists are implemented to evaluate levels of nodality: people following, the gate method, the static snapshot method, and movement traces. To evaluate connectivity, axial analysis is used to evaluate the density of cross streets per area unit, by using Depthmap analysis. The results show which are the specific features and patterns that enhance sustainability at the neighborhood level, as well as providing implications for local planning instruments. On the basis of conclusions, recommendations are offered to move Chilean neighborhoods toward a more sustainable path.