Synergies Between Land Use/Land Cover Mapping and Urban Morphology: A Review of Advances and Methodologies

Abstract

This study aims to bridge the fields of urban morphology and land use/land cover (LULC) mapping through a systematic analysis of their integration in recent research. The research employs systematic literature review (SLR) methodology combining quantitative and qualitative methods through four methodological steps: data search, data selection, data analysis, and data clustering. The analysis performed three distinct clustering patterns: (1) methods and tools, (2) data types, and (3) urban morphology aspects. The results reveal five distinct methodological approaches—Data-Driven Typological Decoding Approach, Quantitative Structural Metrics Approach, Predictive Spatiotemporal Transition Approach, Temporal Change Detection and Performance Approach, and Spatial Configuration and Density Analysis Approach—each contributing unique insights to urban form analysis. The findings demonstrate the multidimensional nature of urban form analysis, incorporating both social and temporal dimensions, while highlighting the essential role of change detection in understanding urban pattern evolution. This systematic review establishes a comprehensive framework for understanding the relationship between urban morphology and LULC mapping, providing valuable insights for future research integration.