4.2.3 The Dual-Scale Spatial Structure

4.2.3 The Dual-Scale Spatial Structure

The Dual-Scale Spatial Structure is a fundamental component of the Dual-Scale Variable Structure (DSVS) within the ULVF framework. It describes how urban value formation occurs through the interaction between macro-scale spatial forces and micro-scale local responses.

Unlike conventional urban value assessment approaches that evaluate locations as isolated units, ULVF considers urban value as a dynamic spatial field generated by multi-level interactions. The dual-scale structure enables the analysis of both the broader urban transformation processes and the localized variations of value intensity.

(1) Macro Spatial Scale: Urban System and Strategic Influence

The macro scale represents the wider urban system where large-scale drivers shape the distribution and evolution of urban value. These factors include:

• Regional connectivity and accessibility networks;

• Major infrastructure systems, including metro lines, highways, and urban corridors;

• Spatial development strategies and planning policies;

• Economic concentration and functional restructuring;

• Regional growth dynamics.

At this scale, urban value is generated through structural relationships among urban nodes, corridors, and development zones. The macro spatial structure determines the overall direction, intensity, and potential of value transformation.

The macro-scale value field can be understood as the background spatial force that creates opportunities and constraints for local development.

(2) Micro Spatial Scale: Local Interaction and Value Response

The micro scale focuses on localized spatial characteristics and the actual manifestation of urban value at the neighborhood and parcel levels.

Key components include:

• Local accessibility and pedestrian connectivity;

• Land-use intensity and functional diversity;

• Urban environment quality;

• Community activities and social interaction;

• Local development capacity and adaptability.

At this scale, urban value does not simply reflect proximity to infrastructure or central locations. Instead, it emerges from the interaction between external spatial forces and internal local conditions.

The micro-scale structure represents the adaptive response mechanism through which urban areas absorb, transform, or amplify macro-scale influences.

(3) Interaction Between Two Spatial Scales

The core innovation of the DSVS approach is the recognition that urban value is produced through a continuous feedback relationship between macro and micro spatial systems.

The interaction mechanism can be expressed as:

Macro Spatial Force→Local Spatial Response→Value Transformation→Urban RestructuringMacro\ Spatial\ Force \rightarrow Local\ Spatial\ Response \rightarrow Value\ Transformation \rightarrow Urban\ RestructuringMacro Spatial Force→Local Spatial Response→Value Transformation→Urban Restructuring

Large-scale investments and infrastructure interventions generate new spatial opportunities. These opportunities are then filtered through local conditions, resulting in different levels of value creation, adaptation, or decline.

Therefore, the same infrastructure impact may produce different value outcomes in different locations because local spatial characteristics determine the capacity for value absorption and transformation.

(4) Spatial Field Interpretation in ULVF

Within ULVF, urban value is conceptualized as a multi-scale spatial field rather than a fixed attribute of individual parcels.

The dual-scale structure allows the model to capture:

• Spatial spillover effects from major urban systems;

• Local differentiation mechanisms among neighboring areas;

• Value acceleration zones created by strategic interventions;

• Transition areas undergoing functional transformation;

• Emerging urban value patterns caused by changing accessibility and activities.

This perspective provides a more comprehensive understanding of urban evolution, particularly in rapidly transforming environments such as metro corridors, transit-oriented development areas, and urban regeneration zones.

Conceptual Summary

The Dual-Scale Spatial Structure establishes the spatial foundation of ULVF:

Urban Value=f(Macro Spatial Force,Micro Spatial Response,Temporal Evolution)\boxed{ Urban\ Value = f(Macro\ Spatial\ Force, Micro\ Spatial\ Response, Temporal\ Evolution) }Urban Value=f(Macro Spatial Force,Micro Spatial Response,Temporal Evolution)​

Through the integration of macro-level urban dynamics and micro-level spatial adaptation, ULVF provides a new framework for explaining how urban value emerges, propagates, and transforms across space and time.