Mechanisms of residential spatial differentiation and heritage identity in residential historic district: a case study of the Barkhor Street, Tibet

Under the dual background of urban renewal and heritage conservation, it is not clear what changes have taken place in the heritage identity and what is the connection with the residential spatial differentiation. This study takes a socio-spatial approach, uses a quantitative analysis approach to assess Barkhor Street’s residential space in terms of two factors: residential quality and heritage utilization. It also looks at how spatial differentiation affects residential historic districts’ heritage identities. It aims to re-understand the transformation process of heritage identity in different contexts. This study revealed that (1) variations in living spaces among people in residential historic districts can yield both positive and negative outcomes for their heritage identity. (2) Heritage identity is mediated in part by residential quality and the use of historical resources. (3) There is also a combined effect of individual attributes like the annual per capita household income, age, and ethnicity. Factors influencing people’ heritage identification include the per capita housing area, type of housing ownership, distance from religious heritage, and store form type. It is advised that mixed-use housing patterns be used to increase housing suitability and that procedures for community involvement and democratic, scientific decision-making be set up for preservation and renewal.