What makes livable cities of today alike? Revisiting the criterion of singularity through two case studies

This paper revisits the concept of singularity, focusing on the kinetic perception of visual aspects. Following a review of the relevant literature that explores the elements that can create unique forms based on Western paradigms, we analyse empirically the conceptual framework of singularity through a comparison between two Egyptian cases. The comparison between these cases will be made using an interview schedule among professional practitioners followed by a questionnaire. Based on the data, we rank the elements that our informants regarded as important in generating urban singularity. Furthermore, we analyse the space syntax in these cases to show the effects of items that have been ranked and the consequences of spatial configuration on the singularity. Analyses of the connectivity, choice, integration, intelligibility and synergy outline the differences between the two cases. The results show five sets of findings related to the way of thinking, the design ideas, the roles of stakeholders, learning the history and the design-oriented approach. Revisiting the criterion of singularity merges between multiple paradigms of cities as products and artworks. We figure out in the main conclusion that our replicable framework can potentially be used in other cities in terms of urban policies that explain the authorities' roles and areas of specialisation. •The amended criterion of singularity combines between the city as works of art and products.•Three data streams from two cases select, rank and configure the syntax of physical and non-physical elements of singularity.•The concluded framework has four phases including the term, characteristics, urban elements and policy.•The urban policy explains policy tools, authorities' roles and areas of specialisation.•Our framework can potentially be used in cities that challenging the similarity.