Issues on urban design of public space: social and spatial identifications in the case of 4 central squares in Athens

The paper aims to present, evaluate and discuss the social impact of  urban design interventions on urban sustainability. The research methodology was based on the analysis of the political and scientific discourse with regard to the redesign projects, the land use changes and economic activities adaptation before and after the urban interventions, the empirical findings of a qualitative survey based on a questionnaire addressed to professionals established in  four squares areas. Within this context, the identification of the socio-demographic profile of the surrounding area was of great importance for the assessment of the integration of urban interventions in the local social tissue. The paper concludes that the partial implementation of certain projects and land use regulations included in the Unification of the Archaeological Sites of Athens program, the modifications of the urban design projects during their implementation phase, the failure of adequate maintenance as well the subsequent additions and alterations, and especially the lack of an established framework to study the social and spatial impact of the urban projects before, during and after their implementation are important factors that prevented the regeneration of the wider area. Besides, the current economic and fiscal crisis has further undermined the goals and expected outcomes of the urban design projects and, in general, the urban sustainability of the area.