Kayo Jemal Ramit 776 06 Report

A Thesis
RE-THINKING THE VOID SPACES IN CASE OF ADAMA CITY
Submitted by
KAYO JEMAL
RAMIT/776/06
Under the Guidance of
Ar. ANTENEH Z.
Thesis submitted to the Department of Architecture & Planning In partial
fulfillment for award of the degree in
B.Sc. in Architecture and Planning
Department of Architecture & Planning

Arba Minch Institute of Technology (AMiT)
Department of Architecture & Planning, B. Sc. Thesis 2018
Rethinking Void Spaces in Case of Adama City
RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

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Declaration of Authenticity
I hereby declare that all information in this document has been obtained and presented in
accordance with academic rules and ethical conduct. I also declare that, I have fully cited and
referenced all material and results that are not original to this work.
Student
Signature :……………………………………………
Date :……………………………………………
Name KAYO JEMAL
ID RAMIT/776/06

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Recommendation from Adviser
It is certified that the work contained in this B.Sc. thesis entitled Rethinking Void Spaces In Case
Of Adama City for award of the degree in B.Sc. in Architecture and Planning from Arba Minch
University, Ethiopia, has been carried out under my supervision at Department of Architecture &
Urban Planning, Arba Minch Institute of Technology (AMiT) and that this work has not been
submitted elsewhere for a degree.
Adviser/Thesis Guide
Signature :……………………………………………………………….
Date :……………………………………………………………….
Name : Ar. Anteneh Z
Designation : Lecturer (M. Arch)

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Certificate

Arba Minch Institute of Technology (AMiT)
Arba Minch University, Ethiopia
We hereby recommended, that the research project in this B.Sc. thesis entitled has Rethinking Void
Spaces In Case Of Adama City been carried out as per the guidelines prescribed for B. Sc. Thesis
and be accepted at Department of Architecture & Planning, Arba Minch Institute of Technology
(AMiT) for in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree in B.Sc. in Architecture and
Planning from Arba Minch University, Ethiopia.
………………………………… …………………………………
Ar.Anteneh Z Mr.Ambuj Manohar

Thesis Coordinator
Thesis Adviser
Sign…………………………………
Sign…………………………………
Name…………………………………
Name…………………………………
External Examiner-I
………………………………… External Examiner-II
Mr.Hagos Aman
Head of Department

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Acknowledgment
I grateful beyond words on how to thank GOD Almighty .Also I want to say I am in greater
depth to say thank you to my family in supporting through emotion and also encouraging
throughout this years.
I also want to say thanks my advisor Ar. Anteneh. Z for his genuine and constructive advice, for
his supervision from the very beginning up to what is now. And also for the people in Adama
town thanks for their kindly collaboration during the entire field work. I also grateful to various
individuals that in one way or another contributed for the preparation of this research.

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Abstract
The theses project is concerned with rethinking of urban void spaces which are created by
deferent reasons. Urban voids are dead, underused and left over spaces in the cities and have
negative impact on the environment due to their openness. They have a negative effect on the
appearance of the city causing eye pollution. These urban voids are the result of insufficient
decision making, poor land management and poor coordination among and between
designers and planers. These theses project is identifying the void spaces and studies their
negative impact on the environmental stability and proposes a suitable design for the voids
spaces based on their existence.
Urban voids have huge potential of improving the place and creating a stronger urban fabric
of the city.
In this research/ Thesis the researcher mainly focused on these void spaces in Adama town
particularly in kebele 01 and kebele 10. Efforts are made by the researcher to locate study
area and find solutions on these spaces of the town and finally an attempt is made by the
researcher to create a public space based on data gathered.

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Table of Contents
Declaration of Authenticity ........................................................................................................................... 2
Recommendation from Adviser .................................................................................................................... 3
Certificate...................................................................................................................................................... 4
CHAPTER ONE ............................................................................................................................................. 12
1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 12
1.2. Background ...................................................................................................................................... 12
1.3. Statement of Problem...................................................................................................................... 13
1.4. Research Questions ......................................................................................................................... 13
1.5. Aim ................................................................................................................................................... 14
1.6. Objective .......................................................................................................................................... 14
1.7. Scope of the study ........................................................................................................................... 14
1.8. Limitation of the study ..................................................................................................................... 14
1.9. Methodology.................................................................................................................................... 14
1.9.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 14
1.9.2. Research Frame work ................................................................................................................... 15
1.9.3. Method of data collection ............................................................................................................ 16
1.9.4. Primary data collection methods .................................................................................................. 16
1.9.5. Secondary Data collection ............................................................................................................ 17
1.9.7. Data analysis ................................................................................................................................. 17
1.10. Significance of the study ................................................................................................................ 17
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW ......................................................................................................... 18
2.1. Definition of terms ........................................................................................................................... 18
2.1.1. Urban voids ................................................................................................................................... 18
2.2. Categories of urban void .................................................................................................................. 19
2.3. Criteria.............................................................................................................................................. 19
2.4 Study of relevant Theoretical............................................................................................................ 21
2.4.1 The possible way of void treatment .............................................................................................. 21
Chapter three .............................................................................................................................................. 27
3.1. Case study-1 ..................................................................................................................................... 27
3.1.1. Under flyover space ...................................................................................................................... 27

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3.2. Case study-2 ..................................................................................................................................... 29

3.2.1. Redesigning streets ....................................................................................................................... 29
Redesigning streets .................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Chapter four-Data Analysis ........................................................................................................................ 30
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 30
4.1. Literature Analysis ....................................................................................................................... 30
Why study urban voids?.......................................................................................................................... 30
Creation of Urban Void....................................................................................................................... 30
4.3. Case Study Area ............................................................................................................................... 32
4.4. Selection of case areas ..................................................................................................................... 35
4.5. Void one ........................................................................................................................................... 35
4.5.1. Babur Tabia (zekala gebeya)......................................................................................................... 35
4.5.2. Data presentation from observation ............................................................................................ 37
4.5.3. Data presentation according to the interview .......................................................................... 38
4.5.4. Access and Linkage........................................................................................................................ 39
4.5.5. According to literature category ................................................................................................... 39
4.5.6. Use and Activity on Case Area. ..................................................................................................... 40
Figure.................................................................................................................................................. 40
4.5.7. Surrounding neighborhood........................................................................................................... 41
4.6. void -2 .............................................................................................................................................. 41
4.6.1. Kebele 10 beg tere ........................................................................................................................ 41
4.6.3. Use and activity on case area........................................................................................................ 43
4.6.4. According to literature .................................................................................................................. 43
4.7. Void -3 .............................................................................................................................................. 45
4.7.1. Kebele 01 selase church area........................................................................................................ 45

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4.7.5. According to the literature............................................................................................................ 48

4.8. void-4 ............................................................................................................................................... 48
4.8.1. kebele 10 beg tera ........................................................................................................................ 48
4.9. SURVEY ANALYSIS ..................................................................................................................... 53
4.9.2 Data presentation from observation and interview ........................................................................ 53
4.9.2. Questionnaires from the users ................................................................................................. 55
Gender of respondent .......................................................................................................................... 55
4.10. Program development .................................................................................................................... 59
CHAPTER 5- Site analysis ..................................................................................................................... 60
5.1 Site selection ..................................................................................................................................... 60
5.2 Tangebale features ....................................................................................................................... 61
CHAPTER SIX -Conclusion and Recommendations ................................................................................. 68
6.1 Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................... 68
6.2 Recommendation.............................................................................................................................. 68
CHAPTER -SEVEN ................................................................................................................................... 70
7.1. Conceptual development ................................................................................................................. 70
Zoning ......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Bibliography ............................................................................................................................................... 72
Appendix ..................................................................................................................................................... 73

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LIST OF FIGURE
Figure 2 Life, space, and building .............................................................................................................. 20
Figure3 parking space ................................................................................................................................ 24
Figure 4 Children playground .................................................................................................................... 26
Figure 5 under flyover space (book shop) .................................................................................................. 28
Figure 6 under flyover space (chess play) .................................................................................................. 28
Figure 7 Redesigning streets ...................................................................................................................... 29
Figure 8 Location map of Adama town ...................................................................................................... 32
Figure 9 land use of Adama town ............................................................................................................... 33
Figure babure tabia .................................................................................................................................... 36
Figure babure tabia site.............................................................................................................................. 36
Figure 13 solid wastes on site ..................................................................................................................... 37
Figure 14 debris and train body ................................................................................................................. 38
Figure 15 Access road ................................................................................................................................ 39
Figure 16 Activity on area .......................................................................................................................... 40
Figure 17 surrounding neighborhood......................................................................................................... 41
Figure 18 kebele 10 beg tera site ............................................................................................................... 42
Figure 19 Activity on area .......................................................................................................................... 43
Figure 20 access road ................................................................................................................................. 44
Figure 22 kebele 01 silase church area site ............................................................................................... 46
Figure 23 existing site ................................................................................................................................. 46
Source; photo taken during survey ............................................................................................................. 46
Figure 24 Access road ................................................................................................................................ 47
Figure 26 kebele 10 beg tera site ................................................................................................................ 49
Figure 27 existing site over view ................................................................................................................ 50
Figure 28 access road ................................................................................................................................. 51
Figure 29 Road network ............................................................................................................................. 61
Figure 30 road network .............................................................................................................................. 62
Figure 31 land marks .................................................................................................................................. 62
Figure 31 surrounding land use area ......................................................................................................... 63
Source; (photo taken during site survey) .................................................................................................... 63
Figure 32 site section .................................................................................................................................. 64
Figure 34 utility line ................................................................................................................................... 65
Figure 35 micro climate analysis................................................................................................................ 65
Figure 36 Mean monthly rainfall of Adama ............................................................................................... 66

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LIST OF TABLE
Table 1 number of populations in Adama city according to conducted sample surveys ........................... 34
Table 2 data presentation from observation ................................................................................................ 53
Table 7 program development .................................................................................................................... 59

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CHAPTER ONE
1. Introduction
This Study/thesis project deals with the issues that is concerned with urban voids spaces that
formulated over time and how it is created and how it would be treated. Urban voids are defined
as vacant spaces that lack any integration to the city’s activity, urban voids considered as a lost
because it affect the city negatively. These areas need to be assessed and studied for further
development.
In this chapter background, statement of problem, research questions, objectives, scope, the
study of Methodology, research framework are introduced.
1.2. Background
Theoretical research on urban voids was first initiated approximately 30 years ago in Western
countries. Urban voids are spaces that are abandoned or in-between spaces among public and
private realms. Cause of occurrence for these urban voids can be found in transforming political,
economic and social structure.
In order to use urban voids, it is important to understand the basic problems and potentials they
possess. Lack of planning guideline and policy for appropriate implementation is critical as the
urban voids are overlooked and depicted yet negative from the realms of planning, architecture,
design and urban theory (Hudson & Shaw, 2011). Also long period of abandonment increase
social and economic expense and causes further deterioration. However positive interpretation is
increasing as vacant primarily means empty, but also free and therefore full of opportunity and
can be constantly reshape and redefined the area.
Urban voids are spaces that are abandoned or in-between spaces among public and private
realms. This research looks into urban voids that can be found especially with in the Adama city,
Dispersed urban voids have been generated due to various reasons, such as policy and planning
system, changing economic, social and functional aspect and further on.
In case of Adama city void spaces are created in such away. These void spaces have many lose in
the development of the city economically and also socaily.In some area open land is bounded by
private owner just to own it and left vacant for decays. The municipality must think such a

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spaces as a void space. There are also other void spaces in the city created by different
reasones.in this thesis mainly focuses in a vacant space created due to an old rail way which is
currently out of service.by developing such a spaces for public use make the environment
healthy and appealing.
Adama also known as Nazret or Nazreth is a city in central Ethiopia and the previous capital of
the Oromia Region. It is located at 8°32′N 39°16′E8.54°N 39.27°E at an elevation of 1712
meters, 99 km southeast of Addis Ababa. The city sits between the base of an escarpment to the
west, and the Great Rift Valley to the east. It is a popular weekend destination for residents of
Addis Ababa and hosts many governmental and non-governmental conferences. Revitalizing
void spaces in Adama study such a spaces and make it vital and address the municipality such a
space can be developed and create awareness and motivation.
It is important to provide pleasant environment, maximize efficiency of land use, so urban

renewal should carry this goal and be continued. However change will not come if there is no
forward-looking policy so innovative alternative could be suggested for the future.
1.3. Statement of Problem

The presence of void spaces in the city decreases the quality of the space and it has economic,
environmental and social effect. This abandoned spaces left out without any use. Gradually these
spaces become polluted area and a cause for diseases. For a city, a land is its heart. Every
activates and process going on this land. If it is wasted or abandoned by different reasons it loses
so many things and become crises. And also Decreases the esthetic value of a city. Most of the
time void spaces abandoned and did not consider it as a use full space so this is also a problem
for not aware of a quality of space.so awareness and giving attention is important in this area.
1.4. Research Questions

In order to give solution for the problems stated with regard to void spaces with in the city
this thesis will try to answer the following research questions:
 How do void spaces created

 What are the character of the void, and public perception on experiences of these void
spaces?

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 What kind of Architectural solution is preferable to reconsider the urban voids?
1.5. Aim
Major objective of this research is to study void spaces of a city and evaluate/analyze the voids
and, reconsidering those areas for new development.
1.6. Objective
 To Study and understand why void spaces created.

 To Study the impact of the voids to the city.
 Making healthy environment for the society.
1.7. Scope of the study

1.7.1. Thematic and Spatial
This theses project is to study void spaces of the city which is found in Adama city.so it focuses
on designing void spaces.
1.7.2. Spatial scope

The issues around urban void spaces are very wide. There are economic, social, environmental,
health and many other issues that are related to the idea of void spaces in the city. This study
mainly focuses on the development of void space in a city. The aim of this research is to assess
and identify void spaces and also giving a proper design solution for that area.
1.8. Limitation of the study

The limitation for this paper is the lack of documented information on the subject of urban void
spaces in case of Adama city. Since the project time is short the site location is the challenge to
gather a data.
1.9. Methodology
1.9.1. Introduction
This chapter provides an overview of the research methodology will be used and approached
applied.

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1.9.2. Research Frame work

Statement of problem
Research question
Objective
Methodology
Primary data Secondary data
Analysis data
Conclusion and Recommendation
Design proposal

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1.9.3. Method of data collection

Types of the study
The research type which will be used in this study is exploratory research by adopting qualitative
approach and quantitative. This will be conducted through interview, questionaries’ and
observation of the researchers to explore the current condition of void spaces.
Data Sources
This is a study which will be conducted through different kinds of data are use and put together;
identify the existing problems for conducting assessment of void spaces in Adama town.
The research uses both primary and secondary sources of data. The primary data are collected
through direct observation and picture taken from the site; interviews with the community
or user of the spaces, and government bodies. The secondary data are collected from, previous
studies, master (development) plan, satellite image (Google map), and relevant books.
1.9.4. Primary data collection methods

a) Observation
In this study the researcher uses observation for collecting general information and data about the
study area just by surveying. To understand the scale of the problems, to support the data
gathered from site observation different images of the case areas will be taken. The
images correspond to the data collected by using primary and secondary data collection
methods. The images support the data by elaborating the issue and making it easily
understandable.
b) Interview
The researcher uses interview to get reliable information about the void space.by preparing
interview questions the researcher will make random interview with target group that mean the
community and also interview with governmental bodies to make the research full of
information about the existing condition of void spaces in Adama town.
c) Questionnaire

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Questioners will be given randomly to selected target group to get data on their level of
awareness and challenges faced community around their. The questionnaire covered different
topics to capture relevant information about the existing situation of the target area and to
understand the challenges in the cases.
1.9.5. Secondary Data collection

Secondary data can be collected from literature review from the previous chapter, related
organizations data and sources, journals, magazine or other published sources. It can also help to
interpret the primary data. In this study, secondary data gained from the municipality, previous
researches conducted on void spaces spaces, and other published and acknowledged sources
conducted related to the topic.
1.9.7. Data analysis

The research data collected will be analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods.
Data generated from the questionnaires will coded and analyzed using pie chart
(quantitative) and table.
1.10. Significance of the study
This thesis project is tries to identify void spaces and the reason behind that to single out it loses
and gives solution .Therefore, it tries to propose solutions in order to increase the quality of that
space through study. Therefore, the result of the study could be useful for the city’s. By
using this study change the existing environment by creating attractive and healthy environment,
making functional, and improve the awareness of administrator and the peoples. And, it gives an
optional view and On the other hand, this study may also serve as source of information for
further study on related subject matter in cities and could also provide background information
with regard to the study area.

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CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. Definition of terms
2.1.1. Urban voids

Urban voids are pieces of land without function, purpose of use, abandoned, and in between
residential or commercial areas without proper definition of its existence. when two or more
structures are built creating unconsidered lost spaces, these aside to empty buildings, dry lands
and empty places, that have the possibility to be recreated, rehabilitated and managed to serve
the up growing cities that increase in population and requires livable and healthy places.
Identifying the significance of these spaces is essential in knowing its potential contribution to
the social, economic and environmental aspects of a city. They have a negative effect on the
appearance of the city causing eye pollution. Proper use of these sites in integrating them to the
city’s overall planning guidelines and making their contribution effective in building promoted
cities with minimal land loss.
Urban void research studies begun approximately 30 years ago in developed and well
industrialized countries as Roger Trancik mentioned in his book “Finding Lost Space”. Lost
spaces could be either private or public, left by owners due to several reasons like cultural,
traditional, social, and the major one economic (Trancik).
Land value has been a major contributor in creating such spread vacant spaces, varying in size
and shape located in centralized and habitual areas (Jeong Lee, 2014). Another reason, the
translocation of industries from the inner city to the edges due to globalization, this lead to the
creation of “brownfields”, vacant space in other words, as they cause pollution and
contamination of surroundings (Mhatre, 2014).
These marginalized spaces could be seen as rich in changing the city alternately turn them to
regular well occupied and productive , the sooner these spaces are threated the better these areas
could converted into living and working spaces, discharging society pressure, by Modifying the
spatial conditions of urban voids making them more visible (Hudson,panas,2011).

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Urban voids could be the result of three factors .First, faulty process in planning cities referred
as planning voids. Second, the functional voids which are dead spaces between living masses.
And last the geographical voids that formed due to the hard geographical areas (Nipesh, 2012).
2.2. Categories of urban void

1-Planning Voids: Voids created due to inefficient and improper planning processes. These are
created due to planning in isolation without understanding the fabric of the city.
2-Functional Voids: These are dead vacant spaces in the cities. When a space is not used like it
was designed to use the space becomes useless. These occupy precious land in the city and make
the environment unpleasant.
3-Geographical Voids: These area existing geographical features in the city. When the city
planners and designers do not respond to these geographical features voids are created
around them making the space unusable.
2.3. Criteria
Void spaces abandoned by their previous user and not adapted to the demands of the current
society, these places seem unsuitable or undesirable in the mainstream economic cycle. Because
of this, they often (temporarily) are left behind with little or no use. We could therefore say that
they are temporary out of use.
They consist of large or small scale places, public or private and built or un-built, which are in
some kind of in-between phase a pause in functionality. Therefore these spaces can be described
as pause-land/spaces.
In order to define the urban voids in city we should set clear criteria that form the base in
determining urban voids.
- Negative impact on environment: lost spaces are basically the spaces that affect the
environment negatively such as the lands that were transformed to waste dumps.
- Density around it: lost space is defined relevant to the surrounding density of the block.
- Ignored spaces: ignored space is a lost space
-Eye pollution: if the land is visually uncivilized, then it is lost spaces.

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LIFE, SPACE AND BUILDING (GHEL, 2010)
If we want to create better city, spaces working with scale is the most difficult and most sensitive
urban planning discipline. If this is neglected or fails, city will decline in its quality of life.
“The widespread practice of planning from above and outside must be replaced with new
planning procedures from below and inside, following the principle: first life, then space, then
buildings. Instead of reverse order in the planning process that prioritizes buildings then spaces
and (perhaps) a little life working with the human dimension requires life and space to be treated
before buildings.”
This method involves introductory work that determines the character and scope of the projected
life in the development. Then the agendas are prepared for the city spaces and city structure
and then buildings can be placed or positioned to ensure the best possible coexistence
between life, spaces and buildings. This work expands into large developments and larger
districts but is always rooted in the requirements for a well-functioning public life.
Figure 2 Life, space, and building
Present problem of urban design (Trancik, 1986)
Today designers and planners are faced with challenge of creating outdoor environments as
collective, unifying frameworks for new development. Usually the effort becomes a cosmetic
treatment that is poorly planned and design for public use. This happens due to the usual process
of urban development treating building and site as isolated objects not considering a part of
urban fabric of the city. There is no real understanding of human behavior or a human
dimensional process in the decision taken .Therefore what develops is a badly shaped anti-space
unusable and unsafe creating void in the city. “As professionals who permanently influence the

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urban environment, architects have a major accountability to meet the challenge of reshaping lost
space that has emerged in every modern city.”
Designers of the physical environment have the unique training to address this critical problem
of our day, and we can contribute significantly towards restricting the outdoor space of the urban
core. Lost space, underused and deteriorating, provide exceptional opportunities to reshape an
urban center, so that it attracts people back”
First we shape the cities, then shape us (Gehl, 2010)
“If we look at the history of cities, we can see clearly that urban structures and planning
influence human behavior and the ways in which cities operate.” This explains the existence
compact urban fabric of the medieval cities with their short distances, layout of main streets,
public squares and market place functioned as center of trade and craftsmanship.
There will always be a mutual influence between the city and the people. This connection
between invitation and behavior can be seen in present condition of cities which are trying to
solve the issue of growing traffic in our cities. “We can always find new ways to increase our car
use, building a direct invitation to buy and drive more cars.”
Finding new ways to use the space should be concern for us as in cities modern urban planning
which is used as problem solving exercise without understanding the core problem. Physical
planning can greatly influence the activities and usage of city space. “If better city space is
provided, use will increase.” The better the quality of space in cities the better it will be the
quality of life.”
2.4 Study of relevant Theoretical
2.4.1 The possible way of void treatment

Open space
Open space recommended the following factor
-Open space for the preservation of natural resources.

-Open space for outdoor recreation.
-Open space for public health and safety.

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-Open space to control urban form.

-Open space for visual enjoyment.
Active Open Space
Recreation open space which contains outdoor recreation facilities, mainly for the core activities
including games facilities.
-Sport – physical activity with rules, an element of competition and an organized structure;
-Informal sporting activity –fun ‘physical activities where no competition is organized;
-Outdoor recreation – physical activities that use the natural physical environment, such as
walking, surfing or jogging;
-Indoor recreation – activities that are organized at indoor recreation facilities and require at
least an Increase in normal body movement.
The Benefits and Opportunities of Open Spaces
Urban open spaces provide opportunities, or openings, for certain activities, Such as play,
watching and walking, while the benefits associated with such activities might relate to improved
mental or physical health
- Ecological benefits/nature’s services (e.g. preserving biodiversity),
-Social benefits (e.g. socialization and healthy living) and
-Economic benefits (e.g. tourism).
Ecological Benefits
Ecosystem benefits, such as regulating ambient temperatures, filtering air, reducing noise;
sequestering carbon and attenuating storm-water.
2.8.5. Social Benefits
-Improvement of physical health

-Learning and teaching
-Rest, relaxation, and revitalization, which contribute to mental well-being
-The opportunity to interact with other individuals in the community

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Economic Benefits
-Contributing to a healthy and productive working environment

-Providing an attraction for tourism
-Making a community more desirable for businesses and residential development
-Increasing values of nearby properties
Community Benefits
-Provide people of different cultures with a sense of community and opportunity for those
differing in ethnic backgrounds to interact
-Good places for children and high quality of life
-Reduce alienation, loneliness, and anti-social behaviors
-Opportunities for community involvement, and shared management and ownership of
resources
-Integrated and accessible recreation services for disabled or disadvantaged individuals
Community pride
Challenges of the cities
-Lack of public spaces: In informal old city the public spaces were vital part of the public realm,
we are living in a planned city where there is lack of planning of public spaces.
-Lack of public participation: There is lack of public participation at both ends on government
as well as the people side. Building cities is an organic process and not all techniques or recipe
fits every city. Hence key to building better cities, public spaces and communities is
engaging community in the process should be a concern on public participation.
- Poor design of public spaces: There is a gap between people’s need and design in the public
spaces that is been present in the city. Poorly designed public spaces. Local needs are often
neglected and planners and designers are hired to design the public realm. As a result it ends up
as a design intervention.
If better city space is provided use will increase and the better the quality of spaces in cities the
better will be the quality of life. When we think about cities we always think about people.
People like public spaces, these places contribute to happiness, and public spaces can bring out
smile. Places that attract tend to be relatively free from problems.

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Parking space
The act of stopping a vehicle and leaving it unoccupied. Parking spaces are very important to
cities. A city must have enough parking spaces to provide their residents and their visitors a
place to park their car. Since cars are a main factor in transportation, a city must meet the needs
of the drivers. If people can’t find a place to park, or if they have to pay too much for parking,
these people probably won’t come back to your city to do some more shopping, dining or
spending money in any other way. Also residents must have enough place to park their car
nearby their house and workplace.
Figure3 parking space
Parking lot
A parking lot is an area that is assigned for parking. Normally, the parking spaces are marked on
the ground with white or yellow lines that form squares that each fit one car. Parking lots are
common near shops, bars, restaurants and other facilities that require parking. There are parking
lots that are open throughout the year, but there are also improvised parking lots that are
specially assigned for an event. For example, when there is a music festival that only happens
once a year people can decide to open a nearby meadow to provide parking spaces for the
visitors of that particular music festival.

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Dimensions of typical road vehicles:
Car parking

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Children playground
A playground, play park, or play area is a place specifically designed to enable children to play
there. It is typically outdoors.
Through history, children played in their villages and neighborhoods, especially in the streets and
lanes near their homes.
Modern playgrounds often have recreational equipment such as the seesaw, merry-go-round,
swing set, slide, jungle gym, chin-up bars, sandbox, spring rider, trapeze rings, playhouses, and
mazes, many of which help children develop physical coordination, strength, and flexibility, as
well as providing recreation and enjoyment and supporting social and emotional development.
Common in modern playgrounds are play structures that link many different pieces of
equipment.
Figure 4 Children playground
Playgrounds often also have facilities for playing informal games of adult sports, such as a
baseball diamond, a skating arena, a basketball court, or a tether ball.

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Chapter three
3.1. Case study-1
3.1.1. Under flyover space

Utilizing lost space under flyover
Objective:
Utilizing the negative and unused spaces beneath the flyovers and open it into public realm
Protagonist:
Urban community initiatives

Use/Purpose:
Transformed into creative sites for various community facilities and outdoor activities such as
libraries, markets, public spaces, playgrounds, art galleries, canteens, seating areas with
traditional board games, etc.
Places:
Caracas (Venezuela)
Description:
There is a lack of places that invite for public interactions. The under bridge spaces are a
precious opportunity for local communities. (Mohamed, 2015) The importance of local
community initiatives is key to transform these dead spaces into great public spaces. And this
happened in the cities where this movement occurred and this resulted in great urban spaces
benefiting the entire community.
Where in Av Fuerzas Armadas Flyover in Caracas, Venezuela (Latin America) was transformed
into a book selling market which in turn encourages people to hangout and a previously dead,
empty and abandoned area. This space is commonly used for playing various board games and
for the people to relax.

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Figure 5 under flyover space (book shop)
Figure 6 under flyover space (chess play)

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3.2. Case study-2
3.2.1. Redesigning streets

Improve street as public space
Objective:
To promote street as public space by designing for people not for car.
Protagonist:
Local government authorities, community initiatives, non-governmental organizations
Use/purpose:
Open up streets for public use, plazas, and pop-up parks.
Places:
Medellin, Bogota, New York
Description:
New York City streets are now undergoing redesigning by department of transportation to give
the streets back to people in turn enhancing pedestrian safety and proving more open space and
pedestrian and bicyclist amenities. This is helping to reduce the illegal parking and reducing
motor vehicle crowding also enhancing cities. The initial project was done using lighter quicker
cheaper materials to see the impact first later on applying citywide.
Figure 7 Redesigning streets

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Chapter four-Data Analysis

Introduction
The main objective of this chapter is analyzing the data collected based on the research
objectives stated, and discussed the following key points by using data & information gathered
from sampled respondents, observations, interviews and secondary data sources: mainly this
chapter focused on presenting and analyzing the data gained with respect to, the situation and the
causes of its improper function of the existing void spaces in Adama town.
4.1. Literature Analysis
Concept of Urban Void
The voids of the city are spaces which disrupt the urban tissue, leaving it incomplete and throw
into question the use of those spaces. Sometimes called urban ruins, they are at the limit between
private and public space, without belonging either to the one or to the other (Aporee).
Going by meaning of the term ‘void’ is something which is ‘being without’ hence an urban void
can be interpreted as an urban area being without permeability and social realm. Urban voids are
undesirable urban areas that are in need of redesign, anti-space, making no positive contribution
to the surroundings or users. They are ill-defined, without measurable boundaries and fail to
connect elements in a clear way (Trancik, 1986).
Why study urban voids?
Urban voids present new opportunities for developing ambiguous and dynamic relationships.
This blurring of public and private realms, of cultural and commercial zones, overturns the
modern urban project with its desire to create distinct mono functional territories, but to no great
purpose.
Creation of Urban Void

An urban void is created mainly due to these factors. These factors that create an urban void can
also become the basis for classification of these urban voids.
1. Planning Voids

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Planning Voids are voids that are created due to the faulty planning process. These are the voids
that are most visible in an urban area.
2. Functional Voids
Functional voids are voids created due to left over space or a built mass that has become defunct.
A functional void have a great legal aspect associated with it; in general defunct areas/buildings
are either under litigation or are government property where reallocation of functions has to go
through a mammoth bureaucratic process.
3. Geographical Voids
Geographical voids are voids that are created due to existence of a geographical feature. Such
voids are resultant of planning process.
In case of Adama
So in Adama voids classified based on these three factors. In this theses project for sites chosen
and evaluate based on this factors. Among four site one site is chosen and its functional void. It
is chosen based on some criteria these are:
-The plot size of the area -Eye pollution
-Social service area -Environmental impact
-Density around it
How the voids are treated
These voids are treated based on their existence and density around them. In residential area
these spaces upgraded to public spaces including sport activity area, children playground, and
walk ways, green areas for picnics and seating, gymnasium. The other option is if the area is
commercial zone, office area it can be developed to standard parking places.
To cooperate and help the society improving quality of life of people living in that area as well as
to reduce the incidence of social problems such as drug abuse and crime, especially among
teenagers, by encouraging them to use free time wisely through exercise.

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4.3. Case Study Area

Brief and Short History of Adama City
Location
Absolute location
It is the best way of expressing any location as it utilized both direction and latitude and
longitude points. Accordingly Adama is located within grid references point that stretches
between 8˚ 35’00” to 8˚36’00’’ North latitude and 390 11' 57" to 390 21' 15" East longitude.
Relative Location
Adama City is located at some 100 kilometres from Finfinne, on the southeast along the main
road to Harar. The location of Adama is clearly indicated by the map here under.
Figure 8 Location map of Adama town

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Figure 9 land use of Adama town

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Adama is an old city in Ethiopian standard. Its establishment dates back to and connected with
the construction of the Djibouti-Finfinne railway station depot in 1916 G.C. The first or original
place for the establishment of Adama town was “Aroge” Adama i.e. old in English and later on
expanded down to the current area of settlement. The name Adama is believed to derive from a
small milky plant called “Adami” in afan Oromo, which is to mean cactus tree, the then
dominant tree species in the area of “Aroge “Adama during the time of establishment of the
town.
Altitude
The Adama town is located with an elevation ranging from 1460 to 1970 meters above sea level
and is characterized by very flat and plain of low land rounded by a lot of mountainous. Thus,
because of its topographic features Area of the town is deeply deselected by numerous valleys
formed by the seasonal rivers crossing the town. These streams are irregular in nature.
Temperature
Temperature is the degree of measurement of hotness and the coldness of an object. According to
information gathered from metrological observation station of Adama, its annual average of
temperature is 210c. Adama is one of the cities that are located in the big Rift Valley of east
Africa.
Population
Adama city is one of the rapidly growing cities in the region of Oromia as well as in the country
since the period of 1964. Based on the 2007 Census conducted by the Central Statistical Agency
of Ethiopia (CSA), this city has a total population of 220,212, an increase of 72.25% over the
population recorded in the 1994 census, of whom 108,872 are men and 111,340 women.
Table 1 number of populations in Adama city according to conducted sample surveys
Year (GC) 1964 1970 1977 1984 1989 1994 2007
Population 27,812 39,221 61,510 77,237 94,184 127,842 220,212

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4.4. Selection of case areas

In Adama town as we can see from the map there are four open spaces these places are become
void by different cases these are babure tabiya (zekala gebeya), kebele 10 beg tera, silase church
area, and kebele 01 beg tera. From the above listed void space babure tabia was in use previously
the other three void spaces are not in use previously.so this research is focused on these void
spaces by evaluating their negative impact on environment, density around it, ignored spaces,
and eye pollution to the surrounding.
According to literature the voids are categorized under planning void, geographical void and
functional voids.
4.5. Void one
4.5.1. Babur Tabia (zekala gebeya)

The concept of this study is to deal with the void spaces problem and develop the area.
Previously this area use to serve as train station 14 years ago and the area was active which is
used by the society. But the current situation or condition of the area is abounded and become
left out space. The old body part of train and related metals are damped there not only that the
place have bad smell because of deferent kinds of debris trashed there it have eye pollution as
well as environmental pollution. This area is a cause for slum house and illegal houses present
there. The total area of the site is 20657.82msq.

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Figure 10 babure tabia

Source; Google earth and Adama land use
Figure11 babure tabia site

Source; photo during survey

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4.5.2. Data presentation from observation

The observation result of babur tabia (zekala gebeya), the area is disturbing and unpleasant due
to various reasons its open land and brown field left by its users the area is treated badly they use
it as dumping area which have bad smell and eye pollution it is not environmentally sustainable
it is just abandoned area the space is need to be environmentally friendly it should not be a
source of problem.
Figure 13 solid wastes on site

Source; photo taken during survey

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Figure 14 debris and train body

Currently the area have no function according to the municipality still there is no proper function
is given to the space or there is no proposal on the site so the space needs answer from becoming
west or trash area. On the area there is construction debris and old left out train bodies which
make the area uncomfortable.
4.5.3. Data presentation according to the interview
There is a community activity in the neighborhood which is called eder, ekub and
mahaber.According to the interview, the residents needs a place for their community activities
and a place for their community activities and also a place for weddings to held on. They don’t
have enough back yards for these things. A safe place and clean children play grounds also
suggested a clean environment free from trashes and debris which their children play around
without any difficulties. According to the interview there is a suggestion from communities like
children play ground, green well designed spaces which can attract and relaxed area for the
community.

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4.5.4. Access and Linkage

It is located in kebele 01 its current name is genda goro and it is at old rail way station the site is
near to arterial road which comes anlong from mabrat hiyl the site is accessible as shown in fig
below the site has direct access from the arterial road in east and west direction(minjar godana).
Figure 15 Access road

4.5.5. According to literature category -The site is categorized under functional voids.
Functional Voids are dead vacant spaces in the cities. When a space is not used like it was
designed to use the space becomes useless. These occupy precious land in the city and make the
environment unpleasant. The site is also a dead vacant space in the city which. its user
abandoned the space because of new modernized rail way is constructed on other site. The
station is not giving services for the community it’s become dead space.

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4.5.6. Use and Activity on Case Area.

There are no major activities performed on the site precisely. Sometimes children’s of the
neighborhoods gather and do some activities and play football often. And also use it as a short
cut way to pass through from a market. Some people just come to sit. From the observation the
site have no major use beyond these it is just open land which is become eroded by rain water it
is because exposed to hazards have no protection.
Figure 16 Activity on area


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4.5.7. Surrounding neighborhood

The major part of the surrounding is residence as shown in fig below.at the front near the main
road there is commercial buildings and also there is a small market nearby called zekala gebaya.
Figure 17 surrounding neighborhood

4.6. void -2
4.6.1. Kebele 10 beg tere
The site is open and left out around residential area which do not have proper definition or fixed
use givin by the municipalty.according to the the information from the municipalty the area is
left becouse of run of water during rain season come from east direction saturate/concentrat on
that area which couse many harms to the surrounding.becouse of that its left out.currently from
observation car trainers use the area for training for their licence and some times noughborhood
children use the area for football play ground.but these activities around here is not aknowledged

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by the municipalty.from interview of municipalty of the town there is a study to use such a space
for play ground and green area.the total area of the site is 5444.36msq.
Figure 18 kebele 10 beg tera site

Source Adama land use map and google eath

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The observation result of kebele 10 beg tera,the space is left out around residential area.the area
is not disturbing or polluted regardless of its openness but it is bare land with out proper function
it is a good oppurtunity for that area to develop the site for common good. The current statuse of
the site is open and left space becouse of run of water which saturate there the space can be
developed further by giving a solution to a problem.
4.6.3. Use and activity on case area

Use and activities on case area, as mentioned above is not properly determined the area is not
selected for any use it’s a void space which needs solution. Because of its openness
neighborhood children use it as a football playground often and also driving learners’ use the
space for training.
Figure 19 Activity on area
4.6.4. According to literature- the site is catagorised under geographical

void.Geographical Voids are area existing geographical features in the city. When the city
planners and designers do not respond to these geographical features voids are created
around them making the space unusable.in case of these site the same is true because of its
slope flood water is saturate on the area because of these the space is left out without a solution.

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It is located in kebele 10 and the site have no direct access to the arterial road it is connected by
local roads to the arterial road the site is accessed by turning to the right side of Ayu hotel and
come along to the Nafyad school and Umer mosque the site is accessed.
Figure 20 access road

Source; google and edited by researcher

In the surrounding neighborhood there are residence buildings, school, mosque and also a nearby
church. However most of the built fabrics are residential area.

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4.7. Void -3
4.7.1. Kebele 01 selase church area

The site is open and bare land in the middle of the city near the main road which decreases the
esthetic value of the area it’s just void space without any greenery or plants or any other
functions. According to the land use the site was proposed for MLU (mixed land use) but the
area is not used according to its land use plan. Based on the interview information from
municipality the residence area around there is illegal houses which is built without recognitions
of the municipality those houses did not fit to the building height regulation of the site according
to the land use map the building height regulation is from G+3-4.so this void space is created due
to the unplanned settlements of the neighborhood. This void space is become a problem to the
residence who live there because it’s extremely bare land without any vegetation when wind
blows dusts saturated to the residence houses their and it’s a cause for health problem. The total
area of the site is 11449.77msq.

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Figure 22 kebele 01 silase church area site

Source; Adama land use map
Figure 23 existing site

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The observation result on case area,the site is exteremly dry with out a single vegetation cover
which makes the area unpleasent and full of dust.the area is exposed to hazades during rain
season the soil is erroded and also exposed to windes. its obviose that the neighbohood did not
make any effort to preserve the area from hazardes by atleast planting a vegetation the posetive
thing in the site is that its not become dumping or trush thraw area.

According to the interview and observation result the area is not under use still but sometimes
children play football on it.

It is located in kebele 01 its current name is genda goro and the site have direct access to the
arterial road as shown in fig below.
Figure 24 Access road

Source; Google earth

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4.7.5. According to the literature -The site is categorized under planning void. Planning
Voids created due to inefficient and improper planning processes or not using the site according
to its plan in the land use. These are created due to planning in isolation without understanding
the fabric of the city. In this site the case is the same the site is reserved for mixed land use in the
land use map but the occupants there occupy the area without approval and the voids created.

In the surrounding neighborhood there is a nearby governmental school kuter 6 elementary
school, residential areas beyond the road there is a commercial shops.
4.8. void-4
4.8.1. kebele 10 beg tera

The site is a void space in between residential buildings. The site is under the privets property it
was given to privet for residential building many years ago (9 years).however the site is
recognized by the municipality and given proper definition in the land use it is become open in
between residential areas. The site is now treated badly it becomes dump area. All trashes of the
neighborhood is dumped there which creates a bad smell and eye pollution.it have environmental

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impact as well as health issue. This problem is caused due to the openness and ignored space
which becomes dump area. The total area of the site is 1891.56msq.
Figure 26 kebele 10 beg tera site

Source; Adama land use and google earth

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Figure 27 existing site over view

the observation result on case area, the site is treated badly it have become dump area and covere
with unnecessary plants and have bad smell.

According to the interview and observation result the area is not under use still it is reserved for
residential area.

It is located in kebele 10 and the site have no direct access to the arterial road it is connected by
local roads to the arterial road the site is accessed by turning to the right side of Ayu hotel and
come along to the Nafyad school and Umer mosque the site is accessed. The term ‘access’
signifies the way or means to reach, to pass to or from, to enter or to communicate
with. The ‘accessibility’ of a site implies the capability of being reached and entered, or
ability of being communicated

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Figure 28 access road

In the surrounding neighborhood there are residence buildings, school, mosque and also a nearby
church. However most of the built fabrics are residential area.

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4.9. SURVEY ANALYSIS
4.9.2 Data presentation from observation and interview
Comfort and Image Babur tabia Silase church kebele 10 beg kebele 10 beg
area tera 1 tera 2
Over all attractiveness poor poor poor poor

Feeling of safety Insecure Insecure Insecure Insecure
Environmental stability poor poor poor poor
Comfort of places to poor poor poor poor

residence
Table 2 data presentation from observation
Access and Linkage Babur tabia Silase church kebele 10 beg kebele 10 beg
area tera 1 tera 2
Visibility from all Visible from all Visible from all Not visible Not visible from
distance direction direction from all all direction
direction
Ease in walking to Easy accessible Easy accessible
the place
Transit access Available Available poor poor

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Uses and Babur tabia Silase church kebele 10 beg kebele 10 beg
Activities area tera tera
Community Well community Well community Well community Well community

event/Activities Activities eder, Activities eder, Activities eder, Activities eder,
ekub,mahber ekub,mahber ekub,mahber ekub,mahber
Over all busy- It’s a full of Less active area Less active area Less active area
ness of the area activity area
Sociability Babur tabia Silase church kebele 10 beg kebele 10 beg

area tera 1 tera 2
Sense of poor poor poor Not at all
ownership
Presence of Good presence of Good presence of Less presence of Not at all

children and children and children and children and
youths youths youths youths

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4.9.2. Questionnaires from the users
40 Questionnaires was prepared for 40 respondents .Based on the data gained from the user this
research is based on questionnaires.
Gender of respondent
Out of 40 interviewers 26(65%) are male and 14(35%) was females .so regarded to this male
number is frequently high considering to female.
gender
Pie 1
35%
male
65%
female
Occupation of respondents
Pie 2
occupation of respondents
30% 30%
student
employee
40% non employee

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Problem mentioned by the respondents
The respondents mention some problem caused due to the void space among them in general
security issue 9(30% ), sanitary issue 12(22% ),eye pollution 10(25% ) or esthetical
Sales
sanitary issue
23% 22%
security issue
25% 30% aesthetical value
environmental
comfort
value,environmental comfort 9(23% ).
Pie 3
Respondents needs in general

Suggestion on this space meeting hall 11(29%), playground 8 (21%), recreational space
12(26%), walk way and sport activity area 9 (24%).

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Pie 4
needs of the neighborhood
meeting hall
24% 29%
play ground
recreational space
26%
21%
walk way and sport
activity area

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Identifying and analyzing the voids
No Location Area Type Description Cause of voids
20657.82msq. Type; This old terminal

- Functional void becomes void due to
Use; the transformation of
Babur tabia Functional - Non / Left over
train line to other site.
Topography;
- Flat This site become
abandon
11449.77msq planning Type; Due to the unplanned
- Planning void settlement of the
Silase church area Use; residential houses
- Non / Left over without the
Topography; recognition of the
- Flat municipality the void
is created.
5444.36msq. Geographical Type; It becomes void due
kebele 10 beg tera - Geographical void to its topography.
1 Use; During rainy season
- Non / Left over the site becomes
Topography; flooded it causes
many lose.
kebele 10 beg tera 1891.56msq planning Type; The site is reserved

2 - Planning void for residential propose
Use; it is under privet
- Non / Left over owners it becomes
Topography; void due to ignoring
- Flat the space for several
years and become
dump area.
Table 6 analizing the void spaces

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4.10. Program development
Functional space List of function Quantity Area Total area
Market area Fabrics shop, 10 20msq 200msq

Goods shop, 10 15msq 150msq
Vegitables,fruits, 10 15msq 75msq
meal shop 10 15msq
Basket ball 1 19x32 608msq
Children maze 1
playground slide, 2 2.40x0.90 10.8msq
swing set, 5 2.6x1.60m 20msq
library 1 100msq 100msq
Museum 1 80msq 80msq
parking 24 3x5 360msq
Caffiteria Dining area, 100 3msq 300msq
outdoor dining, 50 3msq 150msq
serving area, 2 4msq
kitchen, 1 50msq 30msq
10 12msq
Walk way Pedistrian
Amphiteater 1
Tennis table 6 1.50x2.70
Green seating area
Table 7 program development

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CHAPTER 5- Site analysis

5.1 Site selection
Criteria for selecting suitable site
-Location -Electrical service and Communications services

-Access to site -Storm water management, Water and sewer utility
-Services and utilities -Power and communications
-The neighborhood environment -Future expansion
-Availability of space- with one largest left over space in the city, the space within it is
unused.
-Flexible setting- there exists a connection of well- connected fabric of public
transport, mobility and activities which can used to generate public life in the area.
-Presence of public life - the area was seen with number of people using the space.
The selected site (Babure tabia)
This theses project is based on babure tabia (zekala gebaye) the site is as mentioned above old
rail way station which is curently out of use.it is categorised as functional void.it is selected
based on the criteria.
Figure the selected site layout

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5.2 Tangebale features
The site covers a total area of

20657.82 and it not physically
reach in trees and train line
cross through the site.
Access and road network
the site is near to arterial road

which comes anlong from mabrat
hiyl the site is accessible as shown
in fig below the site has direct
access from the arterial road in east
and west direction(minjar godana)
and also it have access from
1 collector roads.
3 2
1 Site access from minjar road
site access from silase road

2
3 site access from collector
Figure 29 Road network

Source; (Land use map of Adama)

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Road network
The road has planned pattern two main roads pass

beside the site and also collector roads are
connected to the site. So the site is accessible from
four directions.
Main road width 25m and local road width 10m.
Figure 30 road network

Source ;( Adama land use map and edited by researcher)
Land marks
1 1
Goro secondary school

2
2
Poly technique
3 3
Administration office
4 4
Train terminal office
5
Adama hospital
6
5 6
Showa flour factory
Figure 31 land marks

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Existing site condition (Existing Land Use Plan)
According to the land use most of

the built up area is residential
area. And nearby administration
office and commercial area.
Figure 31 surrounding land use area

Source ;( Adama land use plan)
Vegetation cover
The site is not covered with any vegetation its open land without
any vegetation coverage. But around the site some vegetation exists
like bahir zaf,
miliya, casmir.
Figure vegetation coverage

Source; (photo taken during site survey)

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Site section
Site section west to east
Site section North to South
Figure 32 site section

Source; (Google earth)
Pedestrian walk way
The pedestrian walkways are provided separately for the people
who are walking by foot. But they are narrow and not suitable
for pedestrians.
Drainage and sewerage
Drainage and sewerage facilities are not provided. Figure 33 pedestrian walk
way
The site is safer from the absence of drainage and source ;( photo taken during survey)

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Sewerage system. The soil is eroded.
Electric line utilities
Electric line is provided on the area
Figure 34 utility line

Source ;( photo taken during survey)
5.2.2 Intangible features

Micro climate analysis
Figure 35 micro climate analysis

Source ;( Google earth and edited by researcher)

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Climate condition
The temperature of Adama is hot weather condition. According to information gathered from
metrological observation station of Adama, its annual average of temperature is 210c.
Figure 36 Mean monthly rainfall of Adama
Wind direction
The town is rounded by a mountain. The wind blows on the site from north east direction and
from south east direction
Bad smell
The sites have bad smell because of the trashes throw there. Mostly the bad smell comes from
south direction there is a trash can there.
Soil
The type and the load Bering capacity of the soil are suitable for constructions. Since the site is
to be public space there are no hazardous chemicals or contaminant on the site.

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SWOT ANALYSIS
Strength Weakness
- Accessibility of the potential site area - Population density and
- Availability of basic infrastructure crowdedness
- Center of high economic activities and - The presence of crowded slum area
commerce - The site exposed to erosion due to less
- Hard working citizens vegetation coverage
- Strong social network
Opportunity Threat
- Its openness for new development - Pollution, Erosion and Flood
- Availability of basic infrastructure - High dilapidated(slum) area
- Center of high economic activities and - Presence of challenging
commerce topographic feature
- It is he future downtown of the city
- Accessibility of the potential site area from
several direction

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CHAPTER SIX -Conclusion and Recommendations

6.1 Conclusion
The void spaces are lost spaces which needs attention, the main objective of the research
is to identify the void spaces and study the cause and propose a suitable design on case area
which can be a module for duplication as per the social needs of an urbanized space and site
potential. The presences of voids have negative sides as well as positive sides. The voids
spaces are an opportunity area for new development to public spaces on the other hand it
have negative impact on the environmental stability. The voids will be transformed to dump
area, security problem too; it is unsafe not only at nights even in the day local gangsters use
it. The voids are under use which is informal and had problem with comfort and image. The
community shows interest on the areas but since these voids are aesthetically unappealing it
was obvious that they were no so attractive in public realm. In addition to these the feeling of
safety in those spaces are low due to that very few people were present on area.
6.2 Recommendation
For the government
-There are several Void spaces in Adama town which should be reconsidered for new
development.
-The governments or official of Adama town who are concerned to the issue must over view
land management and usage before it becomes void space. Following its openness slum areas
are expanded.
-Depending on the demand observed on the sites there is a lack of public spaces for the
community; it is suitable to use the site for public purpose.
-The other serious issue is west disposal issue which needs attention. A proper west disposal
place and materials should be provided to prevent the open spaces from becoming dump
area.

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For the community

The community should keep and take care of the related spaces for their own good and as their
own property. during the survey the researcher noticed that The neighborhoods treat the
spaces badly and carelessly without knowing its potential. These actions harm back the society it
causes eye pollution and environmental health problem so they should be aware of its
consequence and protect the area.
Void 1
Babure tabia
This site is a functional void by analyzing the data on the site this space can be developed to a
safe place and clean children play grounds also suggested a clean environment free from trashes
and debris which their children play around without any difficulties. According to the interview
there is a suggestion from communities like children play ground, green well designed spaces
which can attract and relaxed area for the community.
Void 2
Kebele 10 beg tera
This site is a geographical void which is left without use because of its slope. During rainy
season this run off water can be controlled by providing a well-designed ditch. This water can be
collected and used for different purposes.
Void 3
Selase church area
This void is caused due to planning efficiency.it a potential site for open space because it is in
the middle of the residential area and school area It good solution to cover the site with green
vegetation because the soil become eroded because of its openness.
Void 4
Kebele 10 beg tera 2
This site is become dump area. All neighborhood trash the house waste there. This shows that
area need trash throw area. The area is reserved for residence but it can also use for green space
for the environmental health to make the area a better space.

ADAMA CITY Page 69
CHAPTER -SEVEN
7.1. Conceptual development
Accentuating the existing function
My concept is based on the existing function the area is giving. Like sport activity, children play
area, market. Rather than demolition the existing function by supporting societies interest
developing this existing function by adding supportive function in a standard way.
The market place is located to the west direction of the site. It’s open throughout the week but
it’s not constructed properly. It’s just have small shades they use fabrics and wood. And also
arrangements of the market is mixed up have no pattern or order. The market needs farther
design.

ADAMA CITY Page 70
Zoning
Amphitheate Children play

Cafeteria r&seating Green seating
SHOPS &outdoor
space ground Area with pond
space
Walk way and bicycling line

ADAMA CITY Page 71
Bibliography
Trancik R, (1986) Finding lost space; theories of urban design, New York, John Wiley and sons.
Gehl, J. (1996). Life Between Building Using Publicspace.
Nipesh (2012). Urban Voids & Shared Spaces: https://nipppo.wordpress.com/2012/05/ 07/urban-

voids
GHEL, first we shape cities then they shape us (2010).
Mohamed, A. A. (2015, June). Utilizing Lost Spaces Under Flyover. Retrieved from
Cairo Observer: http://cairobserver.com/post/121347402899/utilizing-lost-spaces-under-cairos-
flyovers#.VuO50vI97IU
Hudson, J.; Shaw, P. 2012. "Contested uses within the ‘left-over’ spaces of the city",
Conference Paper, Research

ADAMA CITY Page 72
Appendix
Arba Minch University
Arba Minch Institute of Technology (AMIT)
This questionnaire is designed to collect information on void spaces in Adama city you are
kindly requested to fill the questionnaire. The questionnaire is intended only for research
purpose.
The following questions are to be asked during the data collection.
Section I Demography
1. Sex Male Female
2. Age 18-25 26-35 36-45

46-60 >60
3. Educational status
a/ not able to read & write b/ only read & write

c/ primary education d/ secondary education
e/ technical school certificate f/ diploma graduate
g/ degree & above
Section II Problems related with condominium houses

7. Are you a residence here?
a/ Yes b/ No
8. How long do you stay in this neighborhood? ………………….
9. During your stay in this neighborhood, have you faced any problem which is related to the
void space here?
a/ Yes b/ No
10. If your answer is Yes, Please select from the proposed list & Rank according to its problem.
1 = very high, 2 = high, 3 = medium 4 = less

ADAMA CITY Page 73
a/ the space makes you uncomfortable(eye pollution) -------------
b/ Sewage -----------
c/ Solid waste disposal -------------
d/ flood ------------
e/ Land scape ………………
f/ Others (Specify) --------------------------

11. Are there any measures you take in order to solve the above problems?
Yes …………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………
No
12. What could be the contribution/share of the community to solve the indicated problem?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. What is your suggestion on this space (what kind of solution should be given?)
Thank you for your cooperation

ADAMA CITY Page 74
Arbaminch University
Arba Minch Institute of Technology (AMIT)
This interview questionnaire is designed to collect information on void spaces in Adama town.
Name of the organization _______________________
Position of the respondent ______________________
1. What is the main responsibility of this office?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
2. Have you noticed any problem related to void spaces in Adama? if yes how is this space is
created
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
3. What efforts are made to develop these void spaces?
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________
Thank you for your cooperation

ADAMA CITY Page 75

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A Thesis

RE-THINKING THE VOID SPACES IN CASE OF ADAMA CITY

Under the Guidance of

Thesis submitted to the Department of Architecture & Planning In partial

fulfillment for award of the degree in

B.Sc. in Architecture and Planning

Department of Architecture & Planning

Rethinking Void Spaces in Case of Adama City

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

Name KAYO JEMAL

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

Recommendation from Adviser

Name : Ar. Anteneh Z

Designation : Lecturer (M. Arch)

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

Department of Architecture & Planning

Ar.Anteneh Z Mr.Ambuj Manohar

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

3.2. Case study-2 ..................................................................................................................................... 29

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

4.7.5. According to the literature............................................................................................................ 48

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

It is important to provide pleasant environment, maximize efficiency of land use, so urban

1.3. Statement of Problem

1.4. Research Questions

 How do void spaces created

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

 What kind of Architectural solution is preferable to reconsider the urban voids?

 To Study and understand why void spaces created.

1.7. Scope of the study

1.7.2. Spatial scope

1.8. Limitation of the study

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

1.9.2. Research Frame work

Primary data Secondary data

Conclusion and Recommendation

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

1.9.3. Method of data collection

1.9.4. Primary data collection methods

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

1.9.5. Secondary Data collection

1.9.7. Data analysis

1.10. Significance of the study

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1.1. Urban voids

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

2.2. Categories of urban void

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

LIFE, SPACE AND BUILDING (GHEL, 2010)

Figure 2 Life, space, and building

Present problem of urban design (Trancik, 1986)

RE-THINKING VOID SPACES IN CASA OF

First we shape the cities, then shape us (Gehl, 2010)

2.4 Study of relevant Theoretical

2.4.1 The possible way of void treatment

Open space recommended the following factor