Interrogating the Characteristics of Residential Neighbourhoods in the City of Tripoli / Libya

Residential neighbourhoods are vital parts of cities, accommodating various activity patterns that reflect the daily life for residents. Each residential neighbourhood is characterised by housing typology and urban pattern, which has been formed and transformed overtime. The city centre of Tripoli has experienced continuous growth and witnessed intensive development programs that transformed residential neighbourhoods and housing typology. This study explores the characteristics of six different neighbourhoods within the city of Tripoli and establishes a profile for each, focusing on the way in which key principles and values are perceived. Using defined indicators, the study measures the spatial typology, architecture pattern, accessibility, activity/use, and type of users. Assessing the characteristics of each neighbour-hood the paper examines functional, social and perceptual attributes through the use of a walking tour assessment, which is composed of checklists and a scoring system. Findings demonstrate the absence of landscape features, such as greenery elements and appropriate street furniture, as well as absence of adequate facilities or designated playing areas for children. The paper calls for assessing existing residential districts as a step towards generating neighbour-hoods that are meaningful and prosperous.