Abstract

Architectural and urban quality, or spatial quality, is inherently difficult to objectify due to its subjective nature. Traditional surveys can identify general trends but lack numerical precision. This study proposes a “qualitative quantification” model that transforms subjective judgments into measurable values and tracks their evolution throughout the production process. Based on evaluation criteria decomposition and Hanrot’s MATEA framework, the model measures a large set of indicators related to the spatial quality of the built environment, including accessibility, density, visual comfort, functionality, maintenance and several other aspects. It generates a conceptual and graphical radar evaluation scheme, integrating production stages with quantified indicators. Applied to the outdoor spaces of 40 collective housing estates in Biskra, southeastern Algeria, the model objectively confirms the poor spatial quality perceived subjectively by residents and other stakeholders. Results reveal negative evaluations in design, construction, use and maintenance reflecting systemic deficiencies and governance challenges. This approach contributes to post-occupancy evaluation and sustainable urban development assessment, providing a reproducible framework for quantifying and visualizing spatial quality throughout architectural and urban production, enabling planners and designers to identify weaknesses and monitor improvements over time.

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