A Multicriteria Framework for Evaluating Urban Morphology and Spatial Quality Using Landscape Units and Fuzzy-DEMATEL: Evidence from Maringá, Brazil

Abstract

Urban morphology strongly affects spatial quality and residents’ quality of life, yet many assessments rely on aggregated indicators and overlook causal links between street-scale attributes. This study proposes a multicriteria framework that combines Landscape Units (LUs) with Fuzzy DEMATEL to evaluate urban morphology and spatial quality. It integrates visual, spatial, and qualitative dimensions through three descriptor families—Green Areas System, Urban Furniture, and Urban Systems—and 12 descriptors. Five LUs in Maringá (southern Brazil) were selected to represent distinct urban fabrics and development stages. Expert judgments were used to weight families and descriptors and to score each LU. Urban Systems emerged as the most influential family, while Buildings, Road System, and General Tree Planting were identified as key drivers of spatial quality. Clear differences appeared across LUs: LU2, aligned with Garden City principles, achieved the highest score, whereas LU5, a peripheral neighborhood with fragmented vegetation and narrow streets, scored the lowest. Overall, higher spatial quality depends on integrating robust urban systems, well-structured green infrastructure, and adequate public-space amenities. The framework is transparent and replicable, supporting morphology-sensitive urban planning and decision-making.