The micro-morphology of urban retail

This article examines the architectural configuration of urban ground floors and the pivotal role of land tenure in shaping the retail landscape. By investigating the elements that drive urban intensity at the pavement level, the study identifies plot morphology as a primary determinant of ground-floor permeability and functional diversity. Using four chamfered corners within the regular grid of Barcelona’s Eixample as case studies, the research demonstrates how these morphological disruptions foster a vibrant street environment. The findings suggest that the physical characteristics of retail spaces dictate the balance between diverse uses, which is fundamental to sustaining street-level vitality. The paper concludes by discussing urban design instruments and planning policies intended to regulate plot structures, thereby enhancing the intensity and resilience of contemporary cities.

Land use · Psychological resilience · Urban design · Vitality · Consumer Retail Behavior Studies · Urban Design and Spatial Analysis · Urban Planning and Governance