The Influence of Spatial Functions on the Public Space System of Traditional Settlements

Public spaces are important places for various social functions and are also essential components of the cultural heritage of traditional settlements, which are suffering from blind function renewal and structural reconstruction during urbanization. It is essential to clarify the influence of spatial functions on spatial systems for the sustainable development of traditional settlements. Thus, based on the topology theory, we built a research framework for the relationship between public space functions and systems. Through field research, Pajek topological network analysis, and space syntax, we investigated the influence of spatial functions on the public space system of traditional settlements in terms of both structure and order. The research results of Zhang Guying Village demonstrate that (1) the public space of Zhang Guying Village has the structural characteristics of “axis-oriented and multi-core”; (2) the coordinated development of political, living, and traffic public spaces constitutes the formation logic of the public space system; (3) topological analysis of public spaces based on spatial functions helps in the optimization and functional reorganization of the public space system in traditional settlements. Hence, this study can provide understanding of the formation of the public space system and can also provide local administration adaptive reconfiguration strategies for the sustainable development of traditional settlements in the future.