In the last two decades, sustainable urban development considered as one of the prevalent theories and policies has devoted a major portion of urban-planning literature to itself. However, the subject of sustainable development in the scale of residential environments and neighborhoods requires further consideration. This research is an effort towards inspecting sustainable neighborhood development aspects, in the form of a comparison between two neighborhoods in Tehran: Narmak and Rah-Ahan neighborhoods. Regarding the pre-planned design of Narmak, it is anticipated that the principles and criteria of a sustainable neighborhood would be observed in this neighborhood. In contrast, Rah-Ahan neighborhood was mainly constructed to satisfy the problem of housing production. In the comparative approach, the principles and criteria of identity, liveliness, reliance, symbolization, security, accessibility and conveniences have been examined in the two neighborhoods through implementing questionnaires, interviews and case studies. Research results indicate the fulfillment of many principles and criteria of sustainability in the Narmak neighborhood. Therefore, it can be considered as a sustainable neighborhood. In contrast, the construction, structure and spatial distribution of land use and activities in Rah-Ahan neighborhood were not planned in advance; hence, the elements required for a sustainable neighborhood are not observed. Although Narmak neighborhood should be regarded as a sustainable neighborhood, the tolerable capacity of the neighborhood is likely to reach its threshold with the continuation of the current construction process and increase in population and construction density. The tolerable capacity of neighborhoods can also be considered for serious examination in newer neighborhoods as Rah-Ahan, while enhancing its spatial plan and design for accomplishing other criteria.
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