Journal of Iranian Architecture & Urbanism(JIAU)

Public spaces in religious buildings and their functions from the perspective of third-place theory and design strategies; Case study: The forecourt of Jameh Mosque in Qazvin

Sahra Rahmani; Shadi Pakzad

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 225-239

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.270487.1625

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Contemporary public spaces often do not adequately meet all human needs, resulting in a deficiency in their social dynamics. They tend to ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Contemporary public spaces often do not adequately meet all human needs, resulting in a deficiency in their social dynamics. They tend to be reduced to mere origin-destination places. While previous research has identified this issue to some extent, it has not yielded clear solutions. This study aims to identify the key factors for enhancing the functionality of these spaces, drawing inspiration from architectural and urban planning principles and thoughts. It prioritizes these factors within the context of religious public spaces, specifically focusing on the forecourt of Jame’ Mosque in Qazvin, using the third-place theory. The study seeks to establish a strategic framework to transform the forecourt space into a true third-place, proposing solutions to enhance its role within the forecourt of Jameh Mosque in Qazvin.Methods: The study adapts a combination of approaches, starting with quantitative factors and subsequently incorporating qualitative reasoning to offer design recommendations. In order to translate these qualitative factors into quantifiable aspects and ensure their impact on the design process, a questionnaire was developed. This questionnaire was designed based on theoretical findings related to the spatial aspects of the forecourt and the conceptual framework of the third-place. During the initial phase, the most significant components and indicators were gathered from a pool of 24 influential factors identified through the Delphi method, involving 20 experts. After analyzing the questionnaire using SPSS software, the top 14 factors with the most design influence were extracted in the second phase. Following this, by identifying the key components and indicators for evaluating a place according to the third-place concept, the study evaluated the study area (the forecourt of Jameh Mosque in Qazvin). Ultimately, the research offers design solutions aimed at incorporating the qualities of the third-place into the shared entrance area of Jameh Mosque. Findings: To create a gradual change from one place to another, based on the qualities, criteria and indicators identified in the theory of “third-place” and their prioritization from the architecture and urban design experts’ view, the most important criteria to achieve the quality and nature of the third-place in public places in the theoretical field were defined. These criteria were prioritized for other studies in the field of urban design and architecture. In order to make the forecourt act as a joint according to the theory of the “third-place”, complications arise in ensuring the functionally of the joint, which may result in either chaotic or monotonous designs. In this way, according to the investigations, there are effective indicators which determine the creation and sustenance of a place classified as a “third-place.” Incorporating these characteristics is essential for the continued existence of such spaces within today’s urban public areas.Conclusion: After analyzing the third-place theory and examining the indicators, design priorities were presented to improve the quality of social life in the forecourt of Jameh Mosque in Qazvin. The results can be generalized to other public spaces with a similar spatial nature. Readability, invitingness, proper access, social interactions and maintaining the place efficiency are the requirements of “third-place” according to this research. To enhance the readability within these areas, it is advisable to reduce the density compared to the nearby blocks. This will make it easier to perceive information. Following this, the invitingness will also become more effective. However, the key factor in reinforcing the invitingness within interface spaces lies in the utilization of various elements. Furthermore, indications of the adjacent spaces are present to serve as an initial welcome for users to engage with. In order to achieve a space for establishing social interactions, it is better to use a suitable space for pausing and having a conversation, which is suitable through the selection of urban furniture. Finally, design solutions were introduced in the case study.

Quantitative analysis of the physical development pattern in Yazd city

Mehrab Mehrabi; Mohsen Rafieian

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 233-246

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.346590.1932

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: The dynamic and rapid growth of urbanization and, as a result, the physical changes in cities have led to many challenges and problems. ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: The dynamic and rapid growth of urbanization and, as a result, the physical changes in cities have led to many challenges and problems. Physical development is manifested in varied forms, ranging from scattered to dense and intelligent. Each form of development has its advantages and disadvantages. Accordingly, without proper planning and consideration of the existing context, unmanaged city growth can cause direct and indirect harm to the urban environment, with citizens and resources being the primary victims and potential future heritage. Iranian cities have also contributed to this global experience based on many variables, such as demographic, social, and economic movements. In the meantime, the historical city of Yazd, as a precious legacy of its predecessors, has experienced a coherent and sustainable form of development by relying on creativity and initiative. The physical structure has been transformed into different types in the last few decades. Continuing this situation not only disrupts the city’s physical cohesion but also exacerbates the economic, social, and legal issues. Therefore, the present research seeks to answer whether the findings of different models in the analysis of the physical development pattern in Yazd City yield a unified result or deviate from one another.Methods: The current research is an applied research in terms of purpose and adopts a descriptive-analytical approach. The data and information required for analysis in the research have been collected through bibliographic and field studies. Aligned with the research objectives, the study employs quantitative analytical models, namely Shannon entropy, Heldren, Moran’s coefficient, and a comparison of filled and empty urban land. Additionally, multi-time satellite images have been incorporated to analyze the data and investigate the physical development pattern of the city.Findings: In this research, various quantitative analytical models such as Shannon’s entropy (2006-2021), Heldren’s (1996-2016), Moran’s coefficient (2006-2016), comparison of full and empty urban land (1398) and multi-temporal satellite images in the period 1990-2000-2013 and 2021 have been used to study the physical development pattern of the city. The results of the study of the city’s physical development using multi-temporal satellite images in 1990-2000-2013-2021 indicate a 71.46% growth of the city during these 31 years. Contrasting Shannon’s entropy model between 1385 and 1400 reveals the city’s dispersed growth over the 15-year period. In accordance with Heldron’s model, using 1345 as the starting point and 2016 as the endpoint, it is observed that 59% of the overall physical development or city size increase is attributed to population growth, while the remaining 41% is linked to the scattered development of the city. The findings from the comparison of Moran’s coefficient in 2006 and 2016 indicate a shift in the spatial distribution pattern of Yazd city’s population density, transitioning from a random pattern to a scattered one. Additionally, when evaluating the ratio of dense tissue area to the total city size in Yazd (coefficient 0.015), the comparison reveals that the growth rate of the city area corresponds proportionally to the growth rate of the population during the specified period.Conclusion: The results of all these methods indicate that the city of Yazd experiences scattered and unbalanced physical development. According to the results of the study, Yazd City is located in an area where the town’s per capita services and facilities are high, with a large volume of services that can serve twice its population. Examining the results, it becomes evident that in Yazd City, the speed of inactive urban levels increases in favor of the active groups as one moves from the central area to the surrounding regions. These functional levels not only exhibit significant potential for internal development but also present a viable option to prevent the sprawling expansion of the city.

A Framework for City Branding in IRAN by Organizational Cybernetics (VSM model)

Ashraf Rahimiyan

Volume 8, Issue 1 , January 2018, , Pages 197-207

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.62057

Abstract

Analysis of the effective factors on strategic planning of heritage tourism (Case study: Tehran city)

Hamid Ghorbani; Abdoreza Rokneddin Eftekhari; Shams Sadat Zahedi; Seyed Saeid Hashemi

Volume 12, Issue 1 , June 2021, , Pages 237-250

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.213371.1332

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: The dynamic tourism industry is an important tool for spatial development due to its high potential in offering employment opportunities ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: The dynamic tourism industry is an important tool for spatial development due to its high potential in offering employment opportunities and attracting capital. Therefore, the knowledge of tourism is important for economic dynamism and development at different scales. Heritage tourism is a kind of urban tourism, and the spatial strategic planning of heritage tourism is a coordinating process between internal resources and external opportunities of the region. Its purpose is to look through the strategic space viewpoint and determine the opportunities that can benefit the region. However, it has not been considered in the tourism planning policies of Tehran metropolis. In this regard, all available capacities and assets of Tehran in heritage tourism and culture through spatial linkages are not integrated, and there are no clear strategies for planning in this area. Meanwhile, Tehran has magnificent valuable historical and cultural monuments and has several thousand years of historical civilization and cultural support. This issue shows the importance of developing heritage tourism planning in Tehran. Optimal utilization of all capacities in a transparent, long-term, and sustainable framework based on an efficient strategic plan can play an important role in advancing the tourism development goals in Tehran and its introduction in the regional, national and global arenas. Due to the importance of the subject, this study aims to analyze the strategies proposed in the sustainable spatial, strategic plan of heritage tourism in Tehran and provide a model of strategic tourism planning. Methods: The present research is applied in terms of purpose and is mixed in terms of methodology. The required information and data were collected by documentary-bibliographic and field observation methods. In this study, in order to enumerate research strategies in the strategic tourism planning model, a legacy of available resources has been documented. The strategies identified by ten professors and Ph.D. students who have studied in the field of heritage tourism and are aware of the subject and environment of the study area were modified and, after saturating the opinion of experts on the comprehensiveness of the strategies, were selected as the final research strategies. After the strategy selection process, the multi-criteria decision making method and the SWARA method have been used to weigh and measure the importance of the strategies. Findings: In the present study, based on experts’ opinions, four main factors and 28 strategies were introduced. Based on the research findings, these main strategies did not work in the same way in terms of their importance in the presented model. Among these, the strategy of laws with a final weight of 2.37 is the most important factor. Planning and management strategies and social strategies with 1.95 and 1.70 were in the second and third priority, respectively. Finally, the economic strategy with a final weight of 1.59 was identified as the least important strategy. The most important strategies among heritage tourism planning strategies in Tehran include providing incentive packages for the repair and restoration of historic buildings by the government with a final weight of 0.56 among the strategies of the laws, the strategy of supporting job creation and increasing public income at the local community level with a final weight of 0.36; economic strategies; the strategy of protection of buildings and historical monuments with a final weight of 0.49; planning strategies and management, and the strategy of preventing damage to indigenous culture due to frequent encounters of tourists with different cultures with a weight of 0.42. Consequently, based on the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of research strategies and using theoretical foundations, and understanding the current situation of the study area, a suitable model of strategic planning of heritage tourism is presented. Conclusion: According to the research findings and the strategic planning model of heritage tourism in Tehran, the most important factors affecting heritage tourism planning in Tehran are laws and regulations, management and planning, and social and economic factors, respectively. Each of these main factors is achieved through strategies. Obviously, addressing each of these strategies is essential for achieving the desired planning pattern, and simply paying attention to one without considering the other makes it difficult to understand the pattern. Suppose we follow the theoretical and empirical hierarchy of research. In that case, having an appropriate model of strategic planning to achieve sustainable development of heritage tourism becomes clear. Based on the results, the heritage tourism planning process using the following model includes several basic steps such as determining the factors of executive considerations in the field of laws and regulations and planning and management and environmental monitoring of the study area in terms of socio-economic effects of tourism on the host society. In this regard, the main factors of planning have been selected, and executive strategies have been presented in line with each factor. The first step in this model is to determine the strategies of laws and regulations related to historical attractions and then plan and manage them properly using the defined strategies and implement these strategies by applying techniques and strategies to measure and analyze the social and economic effects of tourism development. Drawing this pattern determines how heritage tourism can move towards a better future. Finally, it can be concluded that Tehran city, due to its many capabilities and attractions, valuable historical monuments and political-administrative position, and its capital, can become a suitable context for tourists and become a heritage tourism hub of the country and the region with proper planning.

A model for assessing the creativity level of the architectural works based on SAPPhIRE method; Case study: Selected commercial buildings in Tabriz city

Hamze Pirbabaei; Minou Gharehbaglou; Mohammadali Kaynejad

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 241-259

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.306430.1791

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Creativity has been a constant concern of artists and architects in different periods of history. Contemporary challenges and problems require ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Creativity has been a constant concern of artists and architects in different periods of history. Contemporary challenges and problems require new solutions that fit the requirements of current period. Knowing that the ultimate goal of architecture is to create a place for people to live, creativity in this field should also be directed towards enhancing the quality of human existence and addressing the evolving challenges of each period. Therefore, achieving a systematic model that allows assessing the creativity of the architectural works that introduces the influential components of this field, can solve many problems related to both human society and the environment. Such a model can also contribute significantly to the design of innovative and valuable architectural creations. In this study, a model for evaluating the creativity of architectural designs has been introduced, utilizing the SAPPhIRE method, adapting it to architectural contexts, and considering the authentic human environmental needs. This model takes into account multiple facets of architectural creativity and its compatibility with human well-being, ultimately quantifying the creativity level of each building with a specific numerical value. The model was applied to assess the creativity of LalehPark, Atlas, and Setarehbaran Commercial Buildings in Tabriz city, and the findings have been deliberated upon.Methods: In this research, two research strategies have been used. At first, with the aim of providing a model to assess the creativity of architectural work, the Delphi research method has been used. The Delphi technique provides a convenient way for experts to reach consensus on a topic without face-to-face interaction. According to this method, in order to adapt and interpret the SAPPhIRE creativity assessment method with the architectural space, an open interview was conducted with architectural elites in the first stage. Next, every participant in the Delphi panel received a questionnaire and ranked and assigned scores to the summarized points derived from the initial phase. By specifying the desired components of the elite panel, the architectural creativity assessment model was completed. Then, with the aim of assessing the level of creativity of selected commercial buildings in Tabriz city, a survey strategy has been used with a quantitative approach. To achieve this objective, the approach involved distributing questionnaires to individuals who had firsthand experience residing in the designated areas, as well as conducting interviews with architects and experts in the field of architecture within the city. Finally, in the present research, after collecting information based on bibliographic studies and understanding the concepts and components of architectural creativity and establishing a logical connection between these components through the Delphi technique and using the opinions of experts, a model was provided for assessing the creativity of architectural works. The authors utilized the provided model to evaluate the creativity levels of LalehPark, Atlas, and Setarehbaran Commercial Buildings in Tabriz city. This assessment involved the completion of questionnaires and conducting interviews, and the subsequent compilation and presentation of the results. Findings: In most definitions of creativity, two main elements have been introduced for an architectural work to be recognized as creative, innovative and useful. The main benefit and purpose of architecture is to create a suitable environment for human life; therefore, the creativity of architectural works should also be realized in line with attention to human beings and their quality of life. It is not possible to provide human living environment without considering human needs. This is when architecture becomes important – it helps meet those needs in the environment. On the other hand, architectural creativity is valuable when it serves human life and responds to human needs. As a result, architectural creativity should focus on finding fresh and innovative ways to meet human needs in the environment. In this article, we introduced a model to assess the creativity of architectural designs by evaluating their ability to meet human needs within the environment (the benefit of architecture) and measuring the uniqueness of these solutions (architectural innovation). This model was used to assess the creativity of three commercial complexes: LalehPark, Atlas, and Setarehbaran Commercial Buildings. Our findings indicated that LalehPark scored 0.77 in terms of benefit, Atlas scored 0.71, and Setarehbaran scored 0.67. Regarding creativity, LalehPark scored 0.36, Atlas scored 0.35, and Setarehbaran scored 0.30. Consequently, the overall creativity ratings were as follows: LalehPark at 0.28, Atlas at 0.25, and Setarehbaran at 0.20.Conclusion: Based on the test results, the foremost priority for users of commercial complexes is addressing their physical requirements. In these buildings, spiritual needs hold the least significance for users. Over the past decade, especially during the shopping mall trend in Tabriz city, designers and builders have taken these preferences of the public into account. By incorporating elements like spacious lobbies, enhanced spatial transparency, establishing visual connections between levels, and ensuring clear visibility of vertical access points from main areas, they have successfully created an environment contributing to creativity and meeting the physical needs of visitors. Simultaneously, the introduction of diverse amenities such as cinemas, food courts, amusement parks, and coffee shops has attracted a wide range of people from various age groups and societal backgrounds, leading to the prosperity of these complexes.

Evaluation of privacy criteria in the functional diagram structure of student residences; Case study: Student residences in Qazvin

Sara Shariati; Mehdi Khakzand; Mahsa Mirsalami

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 247-266

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.304509.1780

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The functional layout of student residences holds significant importance as these spaces serve as a collective ‘second home’ ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The functional layout of student residences holds significant importance as these spaces serve as a collective ‘second home’ for their residents. Many students living in such complexes have left their hometowns and are adapting to a new city, often encountering individuals from diverse backgrounds and varying social behaviors. This adjustment period, especially in the initial months, highlights the crucial need for ensuring residents’ privacy within their living environment. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the functional layout of these residential spaces and their ability to safeguard residents’ privacy. By focusing on specific criteria tailored to meet the privacy needs of student residence occupants, this research seeks to address the challenges posed by the transition to communal living in a new environment. To understand the role of spatial organization in student residences, this study focuses on the spatial thresholds that define boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, emphasizing the creation of solitude and personal territories. The category of solitude and the creation of privacy and personal territories have been addressed in order to able to determine the desired solitude for the residents through the evaluation of the effective components of threshold that are resulted from the spatial organization of such residences. Drawing upon David Canter’s theory of place, the study examines the physical-environmental, functional-activity, and perceptual-semantic components of student residences. Specifically, it evaluates two residential complexes—the Imam Khomeini International University and the Islamic Azad University of Qazvin—to analyze their centralized and linear structural configurations. In addition, the study incorporates theories of environmental perception, such as Gibson’s ecological model of perception and the theory of environmental affordance, which emphasize the role of movement in acquiring environmental information. It also considers Barker’s ecological theory, which suggests that changes in behavior result from changes in the environment. These theories inform the extraction of research indicators and variables in the theoretical model, providing a framework for understanding the relationship between spatial organization and resident behavior.Methods: The research questionnaire consists of two main sections. The first part assesses the quality of spatial organization in student residences regarding privacy, focusing on independent research variables. The second part gathers social data related to the dependent variable of privacy, covering two components: environmental affordance and attachment to the environment. Both questionnaires utilize a 5-point Likert scale to categorize residents’ responses regarding privacy in student residences. To evaluate the theoretical models and determine the relationship between independent and dependent variables, a multivariate method of structural equation modeling was employed. This approach, facilitated by AMOS22 software, combines factor analysis and path analysis. Through logical reasoning, survey data and structural equations are analyzed to draw conclusions.Findings: The analysis reveals that physical-environmental characteristics apply the strongest influence on spatial organization, with a factor loading of 0.83. Following closely, functional-activity characteristics rank second with a factor loading of 0.7, while perceptual-semantic characteristics rank third with a factor loading of 0.56. In terms of evaluating privacy criteria based on the dependent variable questionnaire, environmental affordance demonstrates a higher impact with a factor loading of 0.71 compared to environmental attachment, which has a factor loading of 0.66. Furthermore, the significant correlation between privacy and spatial organization is evidenced by a factor loading of 0.62, indicating that spatial organization plays a pivotal role in shaping privacy, with internal components interacting synergistically.Conclusion: The results highlight the significance of inner courtyards as an in-between space, particularly in student residences, as they enhance productivity and spatial dynamics. Unlike linear designs, incorporating courtyards into residence spatial organization increases spatial thresholds, facilitating spatial selection and permeability. Additionally, the hierarchical arrangement of spaces within courtyards fosters privacy and territorial definition among residents. Overall, survey results underscore the importance of creating conducive atmospheres in student residences through a balanced integration of physical-spatial and perceptual-behavioral factors. These factors not only influence the desirability of residences but also contribute to resident satisfaction and the establishment of stable behavioral patterns.

The Analysis of Parameters of Creative City and It´s Relatioship With Sustainale Urban Development (Case Study:Rasht City)

Seyed Ali Hosseini; Yaser Gholipoor; Azam Mozafari

Volume 8, Issue 1 , January 2018, , Pages 209-227

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.62058

Abstract

Evaluating the effective environmental factors on the satisfaction of patients and companions with the patient’s rooms in Tehran hospitals

Hani Hadadzadegan; Zahra Sadat Zomorodian; Mohammad Tahsildoost; Shadi Jamy

Volume 12, Issue 1 , June 2021, , Pages 251-264

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.118129

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Various studies confirm that indoor environmental quality (IEQ) evaluation plays an important role in health, wellbeing, and satisfaction, ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Various studies confirm that indoor environmental quality (IEQ) evaluation plays an important role in health, wellbeing, and satisfaction, especially in healthcare facilities. Moreover, these building types are among the major energy consumers. The variety of the users’ requests (patient, patient companion, and staff), physiological conditions, and mental sensitivities increase the importance of choosing the appropriate method of studying healthcare buildings. Previous studies have suggested many methods for assessing indoor environmental quality. Recent research has found IEQ to be largely influenced by thermal comfort, acoustic comfort, lighting comfort, and indoor air quality. Also, due to the differences in users’ perceptions of the limits set in the relevant standards and conditions in hospitals, questionnaires were used to compare the users’ satisfaction with standards and real situations. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the quality of the patient’s room indoor environment in order to identify the most important indoor quality indices affecting user satisfaction and compare environmental conditions with existing standards such as American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (Ashare) standard, world health organization (WHO), Iran standards, etc. in this field. In this regard, physical measurements data of environmental parameters affecting the quality of the indoor environment in medical centers were collected. Then by comparing the results obtained from the users’ questionnaires and physical measurements with related standards and previous research, the most important factor influencing indoor environment quality in patient’s room is identified. Finally, the relationship between the type of users who are separately affected by indoor conditions is expressed. Methods: In the current study, based on the results of previously validated studies, the physical data and users’ satisfaction levels are measured via questionnaires to assess the hospitals’ indoor environment quality. Indoor environment quality evaluation is generally studied using the four main characteristics of thermal, lighting, acoustic, and indoor air quality. Five hospitals in Tehran have been selected, and their IEQ has been evaluated. In this regard, 482 questionnaires were completed by the patients and their companions. In these questionnaires, four indices mentioned above, out of the total indices affecting indoor quality, were evaluated. At the same time, these indices have been compared using environmental characteristics such as dry air temperature, relative humidity, lighting intensity, and sound level intensity, carbon dioxide concentration (CO2), fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM 2.5) concentration by the researcher, simultaneously with the completion of the questionnaire by users under specific protocols. Findings: Based on the results, the highest compliance with the standard was observed in indoor air quality (IAQ) and the lowest in sound quality according to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The results show that there is a significant correlation between the thermal and optical indices concerning indoor quality, which are 0.59 and 0.42, respectively. However, the two indices of acoustic quality and IAQ, despite their high correlation with indoor quality (0.62 and 0.67, respectively), have an internal source. Comparing the frequency of case samples within the standard temperature range (23-26°C) with other cases shows an 11% increase in user dissatisfaction due to non-compliance with this range. Conclusion: Although the acoustic quality of most case samples is out of standard, 30 to 40% of users have reported usual satisfaction with the sound condition. Due to the excess of standard lighting intensity in most case samples, lighting quality has maintained the average level of user satisfaction at the highest level. Also, comparing the results of the users’ satisfaction in the questionnaire with the standard range of the four indoor environmental quality indices stated 100% compliance with indoor air quality, 68% with thermal status, and 18% with lighting status. The results also showed that acoustic status had no significant relationship with standard range and user satisfaction conditions. Also, the dry air temperature factor in evaluating thermal quality is more effective than the relative humidity. Based on the data collected from the statistics, a statistical model is presented to identify the general users’ satisfaction with IEQ based on environmental parameters.

Studying the symptoms and causes of sick building syndrome in university dormitories; Case study: The dormitories of Shahrood University of Technology

Matin Bastanfard

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 261-276

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.267066.1614

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Research has shown that there is a strong connection between people’s health and the physical environment in which they work, live, ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Research has shown that there is a strong connection between people’s health and the physical environment in which they work, live, or treated. Sick building syndrome is an illness caused by the building itself, leading individuals in the environment to suffer from inadequate physical and mental well-being, often resulting in symptoms such as nervousness, mucous membrane irritation, respiratory problems, and skin irritations. This situation can arise from various reasons such as cold air blast, very high or very low room temperature, heavy air, smoke and smell caused by people smoking, static electricity, poor condition of lighting in the room, unpleasant smell, dust, noise, etc. Such a situation can occur in any enclosed space where people spend a significant amount of time. Student dormitories exemplify such environments, as students inhabit them for several years. Hence, this study was carried out to investigate the symptoms and reasons for this sick building syndrome, specifically within student dormitories.Methods: The current investigation is a cross-sectional, descriptive - analytical study carried out over a two-month period, specifically in November and December of 2019. It focused on 325 university students residing in the men’s and women’s dormitories of Shahrood University of Technology, with the exclusion of 3 special patients and 20 incomplete questionnaires from the research sample. For data collection, MM040EA standard questionnaires were administered to the university students in an online form and the required data was subsequently collected. Data was analyzed through binomial test and chi-square test.Findings: According to the surveys, fatigue (64.24%), difficulty concentrating (58.28%), and headaches (53.48%) are the predominant symptoms of sick building syndrome. Additionally, significant contributing factors to this syndrome encompass noise, poor air quality, excessively high room temperatures, and dry air, with the study also highlighting the impact of neuro lighting on its prevalence. Among the various factors outlined in this article, severe weather conditions and exceptionally high room temperatures during the study period in the student dormitory stand out as the primary culprits for inadequate room ventilation. In this research, there is a significant relationship between the prevalence of building syndrome and all the factors related to the comfortable conditions of the dormitory and the physical environment and psychosocial conditions of the dormitory. Conclusion: The findings from this study suggest that the prevalence of sick building syndrome, at 80%, surpasses both the figures reported in prior research and the author’s initial expectations. This discrepancy is viewed as unfavorable and assessed as concerning. Since these symptoms are related to the physical condition of the room where people stay, it is necessary to review the conditions of students’ presence in the dormitory, to reduce this problem by reducing people’s attendance and increasing the per capita accommodation space. When it is impossible to solve the students’ dissatisfaction completely and eliminate the issue of sick building syndrome, identifying the causes of the problem instead of focusing on the symptoms is essential. Undoubtedly, the interior design of any structure holds significant importance in the overall design process. Consequently, designers and architects should enhance their consideration of interior environment design and increase their awareness of its impact on occupant health, particularly in spaces like student dormitories where occupants spend a substantial amount of time. In a broader effort to reduce the prevalence of sick building syndrome in student dormitories, it should be recognized that the improvement of dormitory facilities and the renovation of older structures will prove highly beneficial in addressing this issue.

Determining the factors affecting the enhancement of “place identity” in housing; Study case: Residential fabrics of Ardabil

Maryam Hassani Gharehtapeh; Jamaloddin Mahdinejad; Bahram Saleh Sedghpour

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 267-284

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.302006.1767

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Place identity is the symbolic-emotional aspect of belonging to a place, often associated with positive emotions. It reflects an individual’s ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Place identity is the symbolic-emotional aspect of belonging to a place, often associated with positive emotions. It reflects an individual’s emotional attachment to a place where they perceive it as integral to their identity. Studies related to place identity include different scales of human habitation from house to neighborhood and city. Among these, living in a house holds significant influence over human identity. The emotional connection fostered by the house can shape an individual’s sense of place identity. Since the provision of human ideals in various fields arouses positive emotions, paying attention to the ideals of place can also be considered as the basis for creating an emotional attachment. As the house represents a significant place, its essential components can be analyzed to understand the factors influencing place identity. Thus, this study aims to identify and explore the components that contribute to place identity within the context of the house. By viewing the house space as a “place” and recognizing the importance of emotional attachment, the research seeks to explain how each component influences an individual’s sense of place identity.Methods: In this study, in order to investigate the effective components of place identity, based on the basic concepts and by reviewing the literature, a theoretical model has been developed and analyzed during various stages. So, in the first step, a measurement scale was developed to measure the hypothetical model, and its validity and reliability were evaluated using data from a cross-sectional survey, alongside confirmatory factor analysis. The participants of the research are residents of different residential of Ardabil urban fabric, including old fabrics (historical areas), newly built settlements and peripheral regions. Subsequently, the relationships proposed in the hypothetical model were examined through structural factor analysis to assess the model’s fit. In the final stage of the experimental process, the final structural model was formulated by eliminating non-significant relationships. The model’s fit indices were then evaluated, and the factors influencing place identity, along with their mode of influence, were determined based on the finalized model”.Findings: In the final structural model, all relationships were found to be significant, with the chi-square ratio (78.011) to its degree of freedom (45) equating to 1.734. Additionally, the fit indices indicated a good fit for the model, with RMSEA at 0.050, GFI at 0.959, AGFI at 0.959, CFI at 0.982, NFI at 0.958, TLI at 0.973, and SRMR at 0.0489. These results collectively suggest the model’s suitability. Furthermore, the model explained 24% of the variance in place identity, with significant proportions of variance explained for various aspects of house conformity with ideals, including beauty (46%), facilities (41%), social status (39%), family relationships (38%), beliefs and values (29%), and spaciousness (12%). Also, according to the findings, “compliance with ideals in terms of family relationships” and “compliance with ideals in terms of social status” have direct and positive effects on the level of “place identity” respectively. The biggest indirect effect on the level of “place identity” are caused by the “compliance with ideals in terms of facilities”, and the “conformity to ideals in terms of Spaciousness” respectively. Also, the greatest effect on the level of “place identity” was attributed to the “compliance with ideals in terms of family relationships”, which was significantly influenced by the “compliance with ideals in terms of facilities” and through that, by “compliance with ideals in terms of spaciousness.Conclusion: In conclusion, the analysis suggests that alignment between residents’ ideals and various aspects of the house’s physical structure, activities, and concepts (substantive components of the house) significantly impacts their place identity. Achieving satisfactory family relationships and favorable social status emerged as particularly influential factors. Improving these factors requires meeting residents’ ideals in terms of facilities, thereby enhancing functional satisfaction, which, in turn, is dependent on the house’s conformity with ideals regarding spaciousness”.

Compiling the Conceptual Framework of Culture-led Urban Regeneration Principles Application in Historic Urban Fabrics (Case Study: Shiraz, Iran)

Sahand Lotfi; Mahsa Sholeh; Fatemeh Aliakbari

Volume 8, Issue 1 , January 2018, , Pages 229-245

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.62059

Abstract

The concept of technology in architecture and explaining its components using Delphi method

Sonya Silvayeh; Abbas Ghaffari; Maziar Asefi

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 277-294

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.262413.1595

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Given the increasing significance of technology in the progress and development of every society, along with the need to have a proper understanding ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Given the increasing significance of technology in the progress and development of every society, along with the need to have a proper understanding of its meaning and concept to promote architecture, it is imperative to conduct a comprehensive study on technology in the architectural context. It is not an overstatement to claim that all scholars of architectural history have somehow addressed the importance and concept of technology in architecture and have considered its role in the emergence of architecture. Meanwhile, research shows that technology in popular culture refers to machines, but there are other definitions for scholars. Consequently, extensive research in recent years has explored this subject, with experts presenting various viewpoints. But sometimes issues such as inappropriate, incomplete and inaccurate conceptualizations cause problems in these studies. Consequently, when referring to “technology in architecture,”, one cannot precisely define technology and its related components, which in its turn poses a big problem. Technology involves different beliefs and approaches and the purpose of this article is to refine the conceptual space of technology and to provide a more precise conceptualization with the help of its components. The questions that emerge are: What precisely is the definition of technology, given the wide range of opinions and the absence of a unified perspective on this term? To achieve a comprehensive definition of technology and address the diverse and occasionally contradictory interpretations, what indicators and components can be mentioned for this category?Methods: To address these questions, we will closely review the etymology of this concept, trace its historical development, explore the growth of theoretical perspectives, scrutinize related definitions, and analyze its associated characteristics. For this purpose, using the bibliographic method and conceptual analysis and, the views and theories of the experts are first examined and analyzed. Then, the indicators were elaborated by focusing on the commonalities of the existing definitions. Thus, through the analysis of scholars’ perspectives, 10 indicators were assessed based on expert definitions and assigned scores. Among these indicators, six had the highest mean scores, implying the need to employ the Delphi method to assess the validity and reliability of these components. Consequently, these components are subjected to evaluation to ascertain their significance as perceived by Iranian scholars, with rankings derived from the perspectives of 23 experts who participated in this study. Findings: This test was conducted by interviewing the experts in two rounds. In the end, it was determined from the experts’ point of view which components were more important and which were less significant. Finally, one can achieve the highest level of success with these steps and arrive at a comprehensive definition of technology and its associated elements by considering the theoretical approaches put forth by experts. The findings indicate that among the components of “tools (hard tools and devices)”, “scientific knowledge”, “practical-experimental knowledge”, “process-system”, “techno-industry” and “manufacturing-production”, the components of “tools” as well as “techno-industry” scored the highest and the “practical-experimental knowledge” component scored the lowest.Conclusion: In general, it is evident from the scholars’ perspectives presented in the table that their opinions align with those of the Delphi method experts. This means that for both groups, the “tool” component has the highest score. According to a wide range of definitions in terms of different opinions (positive to negative attitude) on the nature of technology, it was observed that some approach it in terms of its use or function, while others focus on its underlying meanings and concepts. In the end, according to the components, technology can be defined as the application of science, experience and human skills to meet human needs. It is a set of tools, skills, knowledge, and information known as technology components. This implies that not only the absence of these components but also the absence of synchronization among them can impact the ineffectiveness of the technology.

A Patterns of housing and neighborhood selection among special groups; A review of housing selection models in Tehran city

Reza Asadi; Atoosa Modiri; Farhad Hosseinali; Ali Akbar Gholizadeh

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 285-299

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.327472.1864

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: With changing living conditions, households develop diverse needs, prompting moves within the city that involve changes in residential ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: With changing living conditions, households develop diverse needs, prompting moves within the city that involve changes in residential units and the socio-economic environment of surrounding residents. In this paper, the identification of housing pattern selection and the differentiation of households’ preferences are explained based on the life course theory, which describes the general cycle of life changes and housing needs for all households. In the development of the mentioned theory, every urban household is divided into distinct categories with socio-economic characteristics, and these distinctions are the source of various housing choices. Identifying the effects and relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of households and the characteristics of neighbors explains the main discourses and currents of the city; such as the homogeneity of localities and spatial separation. In this paper, the choice of housing for certain groups in Tehran is discussed, emphasizing the socio-economic context of their chosen neighborhood. Therefore, the target household groups of the research are immigrants to Tehran, those born outside of Tehran, simple workers, single-parent households, individuals with disabilities and renters.Methods: Housing choice modeling employs discrete choice methodology and utilizes “quantitative multivariate regression” techniques, allowing for the analysis of multiple dependent variables. The model’s input data is sourced from the 2013 general population and housing census of Tehran city, as well as urban facility data from the detailed plan. The variables pertaining to the residential unit group include infrastructure size and building sustainability. Socio-economic structure variables encompass the female literacy rate, female employment rate, higher education attendance rate, private vehicles per capita, and student attendance rate.Findings: The research findings indicate that variables related to the “residential unit” group apply the most significant influence on housing choice. Additionally, all socio-economic variables demonstrate a significant relationship, validating the model’s accuracy. Notably, “personal car per capita” and “women’s literacy rate” contribute the highest percentage of explanation within this group. Among certain groups, there is a higher likelihood of selecting residential units with limited infrastructure and unstable buildings within the “residential unit” group. Similarly, the probability of choosing neighborhoods with lower socio-economic contexts increases. An exception to this trend is observed among immigrants who arrived within the last five years. Overall, the research suggests that, for certain groups, the priority lies in selecting a suitable residential unit over the neighborhood. However, for immigrants who have lived in the area for the past five years, prioritizing the socio-economic context of the neighborhood becomes more prevalent.Conclusion: The research findings highlight that, within the housing selection model, the characteristics of the residential unit show a significantly greater influence compared to the socio-economic context of the neighborhood. This prioritization of housing unit characteristics over other housing attributes aligns with observations made in third-world countries (Coulomb, 1998; Jacob & Saved off, 1999; Koizumi & Asadi et al., 2021). Reasons cited include the lack of premeditated planning for urban development, ineffective zoning regulations, and challenges within city neighborhoods. Furthermore, the pattern of residential unit selection remains consistent across the research groups, with an increased likelihood of choosing units with limited infrastructure and greater building instability. It appears that, for all groups, selecting appropriate housing takes precedence over choosing an ideal living environment. Within the socio-economic context of neighborhoods, car ownership and the literacy rate of women emerge as significant indicators of socio-economic differentiation in urban environments. Car ownership serves as a tangible marker of household wealth and is closely aligned with the city’s wealth distribution pattern, making it the primary index for defining the residential environment. Following closely, the literacy rate among women emerges as the second most influential indicator, impacting all target groups studied in this research. This underscores the importance of women’s education and their role within household structures in shaping Tehran’s socio-economic landscape, ultimately influencing household decisions in selecting a neighborhood. In analyzing the selection pattern of the socio-economic environment for residence, it was observed that nearly all independent variables and household characteristics align. Notably, as the quality of socio-economic neighborhood characteristics decreases, the likelihood of selection by research groups increases. However, an exception is noted among recent immigrants within the last five years, suggesting a divergence in the pattern of selecting the socio-economic environment among households-an important finding of this study.

Factors Affecting Satisfaction in Low Income Residential Housing Projects

Shiva Ajiliyan Momtaz; Mojtaba Rafieiyan; Aref Aghasafari

Volume 8, Issue 1 , January 2018, , Pages 247-257

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.62060

Abstract

Physical and environmental factors reducing students’ stress in educational spaces from experts’ point of view

Fatemeh Imani; Khosro Movahed; Hamidreza Azemati; Bahram Saleh Sedghpoor

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 295-309

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.255525.1559

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The problem of stress is one of the most significant research subjects in this century. Schools play an essential role in shaping the quality ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The problem of stress is one of the most significant research subjects in this century. Schools play an essential role in shaping the quality of life and enhancing the mental well-being of teenagers. The school environment is a crucial aspect of adolescents’ quality of life, particularly in relation to their health. Research indicates that adolescents who share a positive bond with their school environment (even if their familial relationships are less favorable) tend to experience lower rates of behavioral and psychological disorders, including stress. Psychologists consider the architecture and physical layout of a school as dynamic elements that significantly impact the quality of educational experiences for students. Furthermore, the middle school years coincide with a period of growth-related challenges, characterized by heightened stress levels and increased susceptibility to psychological, social, and biological pressures, along with a reduced capacity to cope with these challenges. Therefore, investigating and identifying students’ stress in this course is of particular importance. The primary objective of the current research is to improve the quality of educational spaces (secondary schools corresponding to high school education in the previous educational system), by identifying physical and environmental variables effective in reducing students’ stress. Therefore, the main question of this research is what are the physical and environmental factors that reduce the students’ stress in educational spaces? The target group in this research is the female students aged between 15-17 years. Methods: A hybrid research method (qualitative-quantitative) was used due to the exploratory nature of the research topic. Three steps were followed in the research process. The first step is to the bibliographic review; the second step is to select the top concepts; and the third step is to use the Delphi method. The purpose of the first step is to collect the list of criteria and concepts related to stress, and lack of student adaptability to the environment, which can affect the educational spaces. Related internet searches that focused on qualitative research were utilized (descriptive-analytical and logical reasoning) to achieve this goal. It was important to select and categorize the criteria and concepts collected from the literature review in the second step. The content analysis method was used in this stage. The aim of this research is to categorize the physical concepts and criteria found in the literature based on their importance. However, as the investigation of the topic’s background revealed a lack of such categorization, the Delphi method was employed to gather expert opinions. To ensure an adequate level of precision, the Delphi process was conducted through three successive rounds. In the first round, an open-ended interview was conducted with experts. In the second round, open coding was done with the answers. In the third round, surveys and continuums were formed through axial coding of both ends of the spectrum of components, and a special title was considered for each continuum. After that, the results were converted into a questionnaire through the content objective table and completed in two stages.Findings: Based on the experts’ questionnaire results, the Q factor was analyzed. This approach relies on categorizing individuals based on their interrelationships rather than focusing on variables. In fact, each factor includes a set of experts who have common thoughts on the subject. The data variance suggests that among the nineteen individuals surveyed, six distinct factors can be discerned. The combined cumulative percentage for these six factors stands at 76.8%, signifying that approximately 76% of the participants shared common perspectives, while the remaining 24% held individual viewpoints. This divergence in opinions could be attributed to personal awareness, inclinations, and individual preferences. It implies that there exists an external reality that managed to resonate with 76% of the experts’ minds, influencing the formation of shared ideas.Conclusion: The research results indicate that students’ stress can increase or decrease under the influence of the environment. The qualities of the environment can influence whether an individual adapts to it or not. Experts consider the shaping of the classroom space, the existence of places for group sitting and rest, the existence of places for conversation, and the existence of places for doing group work in the social dimension category. The experts also consider security (type and materials of stairs, etc.), the flexibility of spatial layouts, solitude, territory, suitable perspective, depth, level of visibility, control over climate, level of light, having a view from inside the classroom to the corridor, openness, and the space around the building in the environmental security category. Furthermore, they consider adequate space, having a view from the classroom to the green space, the amount of vegetation in the educational space, the brightness of all spaces, the shape and form of the classroom, the health status of the school, the complexity and non-mystery of the space, the appropriate density of spatial patterns, the proper orientation, privacy, and color in the physical comfort category. The experts also classified sound pollution (noise), crowding, temperature (heat and cold), ventilation, humidity, unpleasant smells, and light in the environmental comfort category. They recognized clarity and comprehensibility of forms, elements, parts and components of the building, predictability of the environment, no sudden change in size, color and texture, type of floor coverings, and use of appropriate and suitable signs in the architectural category. Finally, the experts categorized the feeling of being comfortable, like being at home, having a sense of belonging to the space, crowding in the educational space, creating a sense of solitude and territory, and having a sense of place as the psychological dimension of the environment.

A predictive model for analyzing users’ perception of the cities based on the Twitter; Case studies: Iran metropolitans

Maryam Mohammadi

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 301-317

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.337531.1905

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: The examination of users’ emotions through social media has developed into an impactful domain across diverse scientific fields, ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: The examination of users’ emotions through social media has developed into an impactful domain across diverse scientific fields, appealing not only to business proprietors and politicians but also to general users. In the meantime, this field has infiltrated urban studies and has been used by urban planners and designers due to its methodology; whether in the form of research that aims solely at emotion analysis or as an integrated layer within broader research endeavors. The aim of this article is to explain this field in the analysis of urban emotions as modeling methods in order to identify the position of this field in urban studies by examining the importance of emotion and the methods of its study in the city.Methods: This research used the supervised machine learning approach and analyzed the sentiments of tweets related to eight major cities in Iran. The data collection consists of 930 tweets that were collected in a period of 10 years from 2011 to 2022. Initially, over 5000 tweets were collected, and during the tagging process, 80% of them were excluded due to their limited relevance to the city, emphasizing tweets related to urban space. The name of cities and tourist areas were searched to establish a balance between positive and negative data. The tweets are downloaded through Twitter streaming API and the metadata along with the text, including the number of retweets, number of likes and tweet ID, language and location. The data sets have been used for machine training after standard and normalization steps. In this research, the ratio of training data to testing data is 80 to 20. According to the supervised approach, the data were labeled by the researcher with three negative, neutral, and positive labels, and where the researcher had doubts, the opinions of two other experts were used. In general, both machine learning and deep learning have been used. In order to check the validity of the model and to test it, the confusion matrix has been used.Findings: Firstly, the machine was trained based on 3 algorithms that were used in many research related to text sentiment analysis. Based on the test results presented on the confusion matrix, the accuracy of the trained machine in determining the polarity of the text in three polarities was defined. Among the three used algorithms, support vector machine and random forest have performed better than other algorithms. Given that the model’s highest accuracy was approximately 70%, deep learning was employed to train the machine in order to assess the potential for achieving improved results. In the following, machine learning with a convolutional neural network algorithm and a hybrid algorithm were considered. At first, the machine was trained using a convolutional neural network. The results of the accuracy of the model showed that the model is predictable by up to 75%. Next, an attempt was made to improve the predictive accuracy of the model by writing a hybrid algorithm based on the convolutional neural network. The architecture of this network is such that two types of data are considered as input to the neural network, text data and other features in the data set, including location, number of retweets, number of likes, city codes and searched content (as metadata). Therefore, based on this input and output (classification based on the polarity of the text by the researcher), the machine was trained and finally tested. As depicted in the structure of the hybrid algorithm, the significance of the text is assigned a weight of 90%, while the importance of metadata is weighted 10%. It should be noted that different percentages were given to the importance of each of the inputs and the predictability accuracy of the model was checked. As the model test results show, the designed algorithm has improved the predictability of the machine by 4%.Conclusion: In this article, sentiment analysis based on model-oriented methods - machine learning and deep learning - was scrutinized, and therefore, while comparing it with traditional methods and lexical methods, the process of urban sentiment analysis was developed and the different levels of the process were described in detail. As stated, these methods have many advantages and can be useful for analyzing the current situation or predicting different urban projects. Besides, compared to traditional methods, they are less expensive, faster and have sufficient accuracy. According to the appropriate capability of the trained machine, this machine can predict the polarity of the data. This means that by using the text data published in social networks, it is possible to analyze the feelings of users. Certainly, when these data are geodatabases, there is also the capability to geolocate emotions. This approach allows for a swift, accurate, and cost-effective general assessment of city spaces. By identifying areas where users perceive negative emotions, the reasons can be investigated and addressed accordingly. This research has been innovative in two aspects, 1) preparing a collection of data related to the sentiment of Persian language users related to the city and 2) analyzing urban sentiment in the country using machine learning in the field of urban planning and design. Some limitations of this research include limited access to all data published on Twitter using Twitter streaming API; the small amount of available and relevant data; low use of Twitter by users due to filtering; and the unavailability of financial resources to prepare and use a larger set of data.

Modifying the air flow pattern in cattle barns of Salmas city through architectural intervention to improve the ventilation

Omid Rahaei; Mehri Barehyun

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 311-326

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.368528.2003

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Observations show that most of the cattle barns built in Iran are in the form of sheds, and during their design phase, limited consideration ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Observations show that most of the cattle barns built in Iran are in the form of sheds, and during their design phase, limited consideration is given to ventilation conditions, despite the significant need for it, as well as the air circulation patterns within the barns. This oversight leads to numerous issues in the field, with the well-being of the animals subsequently affected. The main goal of the article is to improve the ventilation of in cattle barns, through architecture, in such a way that the optimal and uniform air flow is established throughout the environment, at the level where animals live. According to the nature of the subject, the current research is an interdisciplinary research and a hybrid research method is applied using experimental research strategies, simulation and case study. In the first stage, after identifying the statistical population (cattle barns in the cold region), their current situation was investigated empirically, and after scrutinizing the problem and finding the research variables, the initial plan (case sample) was proposed and modeled. The desired model was first meshed with Gambit, subsequently undergoing simulation via the FLUENT software employing the CFD methodology. Adjustments were introduced to its architectural design, followed by the analysis and formulation of conclusions. The results show that, by making minimal architectural changes to the barn and the openings, it is feasible to enhance the airflow pattern within it. This can effectively establish internal air circulation, diminish temperature disparities among various barn sections, minimize temperature fluctuations, and lower energy consumption. Methods: Considering its interdisciplinary nature, the research employs a hybrid approach that combines experimental research, simulation, and case study strategies. The research encompasses all cattle barns in cold climates as the statistical population. The chosen case study focuses on a cattle barn designed for approximately 250 cows in the city of Salmas. The research findings indicate that enhancing the architectural layout and positioning of openings, along with their primary composition, can lead to improved ventilation in cattle barns and a more uniform airflow within them. The research utilizes numerical simulation, specifically in the case of a Salmas city cattle barn, validated previously through Olsen’s experimental methods (Rahaei, 2014, 2013). The validation of this method is well-established and is based on Nagano’s (1990) validated technique, utilizing a zero-equation method and model. The numerical calculations are conducted using the computational fluid dynamics method, employing the Gambit preprocessor for meshing and Fluent software for network analysis.Findings: Considering the research goal of enhancing airflow and subsequently ventilation in cattle barns in climates similar to Salmas city (the cold climate), various scenarios of a common case study were examined in a two-dimensional manner. Initially, longitudinal sections were analyzed, followed by transverse sections of the cattle barn. In all scenarios, the energy equation was activated. The optimal condition involves a smooth and favorable inward airflow through side windows. Afterward, this airflow undergoes conditioning as it passes through the radiators installed in the windows and, if necessary, proper dehumidification is achieved with the assistance of mist sprinklers. Minimal energy is drawn from the lower part of the area occupied by the animals and is expelled through the roof opening.Conclusion: Based on the above-mentioned resources, the following are suggested in the case of longitudinal and transverse ventilation of cold climate cattle farms:1. Unpredicted entry of outside air into the interior of cattle barns should be strictly avoided.2. If the entire space of the barn is used, the use of a longitudinal one-way ventilation mechanism is required, while all the openings are closed. It is recommended to incorporate a temperature control source, such as a radiator, positioned at a height of 3 meters above the main floor level, equipped with both hot and cold water supply, at one side of the barn. Simultaneously, a suction device (jet fan) should be installed at floor level on the opposite side, expelling air outward. In this setup, fresh outdoor air, having passed through the radiator, becomes conducive and enters the enclosure. Following even distribution of this air to achieve a desirable temperature within the environment, it exits through the suction system located on the opposite side. Additionally, a pressure regulating valve should be installed at the lower level of the side housing the radiator, which can be closed during colder seasons.3. If it is possible to change the interior space of the cattle barn, lateral ventilation is suggested from both sides.4. In general, transverse ventilation with a roof valve is more efficient than ventilation along the cattle barn.

Reading the stimuli affecting the future status of urban development of competitive knowledge-based (Innovation districts) in Tehran metropolitan

Elnaz Behzadpour; Mohammadreza Farzad Behtash; Zahra Sadat Saeideh Zarabadi

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 319-344

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2024.305667.1786

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Today, “knowledge” has become a vital necessity for increasing the competitiveness of countries and cities in the twenty-first ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Today, “knowledge” has become a vital necessity for increasing the competitiveness of countries and cities in the twenty-first century. Therefore, a knowledge-based economy, defined as an economy capable of generating, disseminating, and utilizing knowledge, has led to a shift from traditional patterns of urban development to knowledge-based development, ultimately resulting in a knowledge-based city. On the other hand, it is now established that a city relies more on its capacities for innovation than on material resources and central government support. Innovation, resulting from the dissemination of local knowledge through interactions among urban elements such as businesses, customers, suppliers, and universities, is what drives growth, economic development, sustainability, and urban competitiveness. However, unfortunately, the main pillars or areas of innovation, which are the connecting points between the concepts of knowledge-based urban development and urban competitiveness, have not been identified in the global literature. In this regard, Tehran, as a megacity, due to the emergence of a networked society and the phenomenon of a knowledge-based economy, has set a new perspective called “knowledge-based urban development” and a competitive city on the agenda of its planning and urban development. However, there is currently no written plan for moving towards a competitive knowledge-based city in Tehran, and there is a need for review and revision. In line with the aforementioned, the main issue of the research is the neglect and insufficient attention to the main driving force such as innovation as a value-creating capital for achieving competitive knowledge-based urban development in Tehran. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to address this gap in the global literature in locating competitive knowledge-based urban development (innovative regions) in the megacity of Tehran.Methods: The aforementioned research has an applied development objective, gathering data through documentary studies and expert interviews in a Delphi format involving 20 experts. A total of 54 influential factors affecting the future state of competitive knowledge-based urban development in Tehran, within 13 components (diversity, urban scale and population density, spatial proximity, internal spatial connectivity, external spatial connectivity, knowledge dissemination to society, government support, ICT application, innovative society, economic competitiveness, organizational-institutional competitiveness, locational character, and human capital), and 6 dimensions (institutional-organizational, economic, physical, socio-cultural, activity-performance, and technology-communication) were identified and then prioritized based on expert opinions using questionnaire tools and the Delphi technique. Furthermore, the method of Structural Mutual Effects Analysis was applied using the MICMAC software for further processing.Findings: The research findings indicate that 13 stimuli have been identified as the most influential factors on the future status of competitive knowledge-based urban development in Tehran. Among them, six main influential factors (decision-making culture based on knowledge, collaboration of knowledge actors and decision-makers in knowledge sharing, organizational interaction, supportive legal framework for knowledge-based activities, government investment in knowledge-based activities, strategic collaboration and organizational networking) fall under the institutional-organizational dimension, while five stimuli (knowledge-based businesses, the infrastructure of knowledge spaces, global urban competitiveness index, foreign direct investment, per capita gross domestic product of the city, international business environment, and urban innovation) belong to the economic dimension. Additionally, one stimulus related to the Gini coefficient of the urban region is categorized under the social-cultural dimension. This highlights the significant role of governments and organizations, as well as the economic planning approach and the importance of intellectual advocacy in achieving a competitive knowledge-based urban development future in Tehran.Conclusion: The research findings confirm the theory based on governance and economy in the development of competitive knowledge-based cities in Tehran. Contrary to what Florida suggests, it’s not only the creative class and soft factors that determine the development of competitive knowledge-based cities in Tehran, but rather a combination of governance-based theories and soft and economic condition theories that lay the foundation for the development of competitive knowledge-based cities. Therefore, priority should be given to these key drivers in formulating the main strategy for the future development of competitive knowledge-based urbanism in Tehran through the establishment of overarching documents and the content of urban planning schemes. Furthermore, the following points are summarized in the form of recommendations: Encouraging the clustering and concentration of innovative businesses and individuals to promote innovative activities and economic competition. In terms of government support, the establishment of official institutions to guide knowledge-based urban development, facilitating government-industry-academia collaboration, and investment in cutting-edge technologies are recommended. Additionally, governments are advised to act as entrepreneurs and market creators by deeply understanding and supporting knowledge-based businesses. In the societal sector, integrating traditional and new technological infrastructures, changing citizens’ lifestyles in line with sustainable development approaches, and altering social behaviors have been emphasized. Regarding diversity, diverse and context-appropriate spatial policies, the establishment of cultural hubs and districts, and infrastructure development to promote diversity and encourage the presence of various innovative industries have been proposed. In terms of external connectivity, upgrading public transportation systems and creating physical links between public spaces to facilitate access to technology and innovation clusters are among the suggestions. Finally, the development of organizations and knowledge-based individuals and the aggregation of knowledge actors are also proposed as strategies to enhance local knowledge and information.

Meta-study of pathology articles on urban development plans in Iran

Hojjatollah Kolivand; Morteza Talachian; Hamid Majedi

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 327-340

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.292516.1729

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Urban development plans, the most important and comprehensive document of the development of cities, have passed different periods in terms ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Urban development plans, the most important and comprehensive document of the development of cities, have passed different periods in terms of content, methodology and implementation. This is due to the importance of plans in urban development and to the failure to implement them. The experiences of preparing urban development plans show that these plans, despite their positive and constructive aspects, have not always solved urban problems, and may have been an important factor in the formation of problems in some cases. This subject has been the basis of many studies in the form of articles, books and reports by experts or consulting companies, Organization, the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development and the Ministry of Interior. Despite new theoretical concepts, including strategic-structural plans, the ineffectiveness of these plans is still evident. Therefore, any kind of research in order to identify and diagnose urban development plans, considering the complexity of urban issues is necessary. The aim of the article is to analyze urban development plans through the structure of studies and the methodology and content of these plans. Methods: The dominant methodological approach of articles related to the pathology of urban development plans has been the meta-analysis method. Meta-analysis involves a systematic study of previous research findings pertaining to a particular subject, providing the opportunity to derive conclusions that may not be readily evident from the original data within those prior studies. First, related articles have been collected in the period from 1992 to 2020; then, by selecting the number of 85 articles related to the pathology of urban development plans, using the basics and extracting the investigated indicators in the form of a checklist of related data, including study trends, geographical distribution, research approaches and types, research environment, strategies, the methods of data collection and the general approach of the content have been extracted and analyzed quantitatively.Findings: The trend of studies in the investigated period of time shows the fluctuation of studies by researchers regarding the pathology of urban development plans did not increase in different periods. More than 50% of the studies were conducted without case samples. The geographical distribution of studies shows the lack of proper and uniform distribution in the country. In a large number of provinces, despite the increase in the number of cities, no study has been done. The most researchers are related to the field of urban planning with 41% and the second place is geographical sciences with 38% of all researchers. This shows the lack of attention of other sciences related to the city and urban development plans. Based on the research findings, from a methodological perspective, there is a relatively good balance in prescriptive research, with various approaches (comparative and inductive) being utilized in the applied studies. The majority of studies have a qualitative nature and focus on macro-level urban development schemes. More than three-fourths of the research was conducted in bibliographic method and nearly 65% of the articles were descriptive and phenomenological in terms of research methods. It is clear that pathology studies of urban development plans notably lack the incorporation of alternative research methods, such as parametric and non-parametric approaches. According to the results of this article, more than 75% of studies have been based on documentary methods, which is on the one hand due to the documentation of comprehensive urban plans and the necessity of document review, and on the other hand, it shows the weakness and lack of attention to other methods of data collection in case studies.Conclusion: The findings indicate that the increase in the quantity of pathology studies does not correspond proportionally to the increase in the number of cities and graduates of this field in the country, and on the other hand, the geographical distribution shows that more than two-thirds of the country’s provinces have no specific study or only they are satisfied with one research. In the specialized fields, 80% of studies are done by graduates of urban planning and geographical sciences, and researchers of economic and social sciences have paid the least attention to the field of urban planning. Therefore, it seems necessary that the authorities take measures for the purposeful collaboration of other researchers related to the city. Also, the lack of appropriate and relevant methodology and high dependence on phenomenology and document study, despite the survey and field nature of the research field and the lack of combined methods, can be seen in these articles. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the objective and operational aspects of urban development plans; move more towards mixed (quantitative-qualitative) research. Overall, the findings indicate that studies related to urban development plans have a fundamental weakness in terms of methodology. The methodological content analysis of the studied articles indicates two distinct types of urban development plan pathology studies. The first group, with 6% of the articles, has investigated the level of realization and the reasons for the non-realization of the goals in the samples, and nearly 94% based on the experiences of the authors have raised the causes of the inefficiency of urban development plans, which is due to the influence of studies on the phenomenological method and the priority of knowing the cause is more than the knowing the effect, and it indicates the lack of investigations with an inductive approach in urban development plans. In conclusion, it is suggested that the Supreme Council of Urban Planning and Architecture of Iran, considering its mission in this regard using the capacity of numerous and related scientific centers throughout the provinces of the country, according to the periods of monitoring and revision of plans, provide the field for targeted studies by researchers. This can balance between the time periods of studies, the optimal distribution of studies according to issues and problems and the dispersion of cities and the use of different researchers in this field.

The development of in-between spaces in houses during Qajar and Pahlavi I period based on changes of value

Paria Aliakbari; Shadi Azizi; Mozaien Dehbashi Sharif

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 345-365

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.324828.1851

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Every culture provides human patterns in various time periods which determine activities, achievements and social responsibilities of people. ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Every culture provides human patterns in various time periods which determine activities, achievements and social responsibilities of people. These cultural patterns and values influence individuals’ lifestyles and guide their actions. Consequently, the formed values of traditional societies undergo transformation as global social changes and revolutions redefine societal norms. In this process, the values with which people lived their lives for years and then formed their physical environment are replaced with some new values and patterns. Therefore, it can be said that space matters in understanding the changes and social developments that have taken place in the society in the space-time dimension. In order to see the changes that have taken place in the society, one must pay attention to its physical appearance in order to understand the root of the transformation in the structures of the society. Architecture and the city can be considered as elements that are affected by the societal conditions, effectively illustrating and manifesting societal changes. One of the most important causes of spatial changes are the social changes. According to social psychologists and sociologists, social changes influence societies in both materialistic and non-materialistic aspects. This study aims to explore non-materialistic aspects, particularly changes of value, and their materialistic effects on spaces, focusing specifically on in-between spaces.Methods: The methodology used in this study is qualitative in nature, with an exploratory-historical and post-analytical logic. The exploratory-historical logic explores historical contexts to understand societal mechanisms and approaches. Meanwhile, the post-analytical logic examines current societal mechanisms and approaches and constructs hypothetical models to explore underlying relationships. Data collection for this study involved gathering information from various sources, including bibliographic research, as well as primary and secondary resources such as images and documents.Findings: Values of a society reveal the culture and beliefs of a nation which can directly impact the form and structure of its built environment. As a result, in-between spaces, as semi-public and semi-private spaces, carry several roles which are being affected by the values of their time. These values were transformed in Qajar period when the signs of modernity appeared in architecture. The findings highlight the emergence of new societal values, including socialization of women in society, rejection of polygamy among men, shrinking families (nuclear structure), separation between home and workplace, outburst of western goods (new appliances of life, formation of new entertainment out of home, emergence of service jobs, individualism and independent lifestyles). The aforementioned factors have changed in-between spaces through some structural changes, so they formed new values and have changed the notions of in-between spaces, such as privacy, private area and personal spaces. Consequently, new forms of in-between spaces, such as balconies, pause areas, and horizontal divisions like stairways, have emerged to accommodate these evolving societal values.Conclusion: The reciprocal relationship between space and social changes is evident in the two studied periods. During the Qajar and Pahlavi I period, the construction of new spaces and buildings that were not seen before in Iranian society, led to significant physical changes that mirrored evolving societal values. On the other hand, cultural connections with the West, educational trips, travel and printing of books and newspapers and other factors led to major changes in individual and social values. Consequently, the spaces within households, including crucial communication and intermediary areas, underwent transformations to accommodate the evolving needs of individuals, which differed noticeably from those of previous generations.

An Explanation the Collaborative Education Model in Architectural Basic Design Studios (Action Research in Basic Design Studio3)

Arezo Zandimoheb; Omid Derjdar; Gholamreza Talischi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 13 July 2023

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.236717.1608

Abstract

Professional and educational activities are formed in the architectural design studio with the collaboration, exploration, and discussion of students and teachers. The need to design ... Read More

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Correlation analysis of physical satisfaction and job satisfaction of control room staff and prioritization of open space design parameters in gas power plants; Case study: Gas power plants in Kermanshah province

Sadegh Koulivandi; Mahdi Zandieh; Karim Afshar; Naser Barati

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 341-356

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.259599.1586

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Focusing solely on the technical and physical aspects of power plant complexes to meet machine requirements has led to a pattern of repetitive ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Focusing solely on the technical and physical aspects of power plant complexes to meet machine requirements has led to a pattern of repetitive cubic shapes and functional structures. Consequently, the central open areas within these rigid and functional structures have primarily been designated for vehicle access and pedestrian walkways, primarily serving as passageways for employees. Changing the attitude of the designers regarding the responsiveness of the open spaces of the power plant to the other needs of the employees could enhance the overall quality of the workplace, ultimately resulting in greater physical satisfaction among the staff. For this reason, it is essential that the role of open and vacant spaces in power plant complexes becomes bolder, and free from traditional isolation. A noteworthy challenge in designing industrial areas is the lack of attention to achieve the optimal design for industrial units in order to improve the job satisfaction of employees. This research shows the weakness of the existing written theoretical literature about the design of open spaces in power plant units under topics such as physical satisfaction and job satisfaction. In the present research: 1- Correlation analysis of physical satisfaction and job satisfaction, 2- Correlation analysis of open space indicators and job satisfaction, 3- Extraction and compilation of ranking of effective parameters of open space design in line with physical satisfaction in power plant industrial units are studied. In the research, the methods of reviewing texts, sources and documents in the context of bibliographic studies, case research and observation have been used. Also, in this research, the correlation between the sense of physical satisfaction and job satisfaction of the control room employees will be investigated.Methods: Using the Delphi method, quantitative and qualitative indicators of open space have been identified, selected and prioritized, and then field studies (questionnaire tool) have been used. At this stage, using the questionnaire data, the physical satisfaction and job satisfaction of the control room employees are measured and at the end, the correlation coefficient of the research variables is determined (the Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was done in the SPSS version 26 software environment). The nature of the research is descriptive-analytical and based on the purpose, it is practical and by recognizing and analyzing the existing power plant units (using observation, in-depth interviews and questionnaires), prominent parameters in the design of open spaces of power plants are recovered.Findings: The research findings are categorized as follows: 1. Explaining and ranking the important parameters of open space and their impact on the job satisfaction of gas plant control room employees; 2. The possibility of obtaining the achievements of “satisfaction with the physical environment of the workspace” and “job satisfaction” for gas plant control room employees. Confirmation of the research hypothesis, which is based on the correlation of physical satisfaction and job satisfaction of gas plant control room employees (correlation coefficient (0.390) and significance level (0.001)) and the correlation of open space indicators and job satisfaction of control room employees in the open space of gas power plant (correlation coefficient (0.393) and significance level (0.001)) is highlighted in research results (Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis by SPSS software, version 26). The primary outcome of this study involves the identification of crucial factors, as perceived by control room personnel in the studies gas power plants in the design of the open space of the power plant in line with the physical satisfaction of the gas power plant control room employees and compiling their ranking and importance using the Delphi method separately in each power plant.Conclusion: Therefore, prioritizing the results of this research is effective and decisive in changing the role of open spaces from vacant and unimportant spaces to human-centered places. Due to the anxious and sensitive working conditions, the employees of the control room of the power plant complexes are in a dangerous situation and the physical work environment is effective in adjusting and reducing these dangerous conditions. According to the results of this research (questionnaire and in-depth interview), the existence of a place and the formation of a sense of place in the control room are effective in employees’ satisfaction with the work environment. Therefore, creating or strengthening the sense of place in the control room employees is one of the best ways to create physical satisfaction. Standardization and modulation as well as the use of super scale (large or very large scale) are among the most important complications of power plant construction. These features have a negative impact on the place and prepare the ground for its destruction. Other causes of this destruction, including: disconnection, non-distinctiveness and lack of originality, can be defined under standardization, modulation and use of super scale (large and very large scale). The results of the analysis of the questionnaire items regarding the identification and ranking of the physical parameters of the open space of the gas power plant (based on the total score of each option in the Delphi method), which is the priority of the control room staff (extracted from an in-depth interview with the control room staff and experts and then screening it), Without considering the priority, is as follows: - Architectural design - View and landscape - Vegetation - Facilities and facilities - Access - Furniture - Color and texture of materials - Connection with other spaces - Variety of activities.

Investigating the position of housing brand from the perspective of residents using perceptual mapping technique Complex of long apartments with houses and short apartments in Ardabil

Samira Saeidi Zaranji; Mohammad Hassan Yazdani

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 367-383

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.317109.1829

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: As urban populations increase and cities tackle with environmental crises and instabilities, achieving sustainable urban development hinges ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: As urban populations increase and cities tackle with environmental crises and instabilities, achieving sustainable urban development hinges on understanding and promoting a sustainable physical city layout. The concept of the compact city has drawn significant attention and support. However, in our country, traditional patterns embedded in comprehensive urban plans, along with influences from current urban management, have led to the horizontal expansion of cities, resulting in a scattered urban pattern. Addressing the numerous challenges cities face may necessitate transitioning towards denser urban environments. The “positioning” process plays a crucial role for companies, enabling them to select a strategic market position and enhance their brand’s success.Methods: The current study adopts an applied approach in terms of its purpose and utilizes a descriptive-analytical method. Regarding the study’s nature, data was collected by means of survey method using a questionnaire. To ensure the questionnaire’s validity, it underwent scrutiny by professors and experts, due to the absence of prior research in this area. Additionally, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was employed to assess questionnaire reliability, yielding a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.723 for high-rise apartments and 0.782 for houses, indicating high reliability of the questionnaire. The study’s statistical population comprises residents of high-rise towers in Ardabil (District 2) who have previously resided in houses or apartments, as well as house residents who have previously lived in high-rise towers. Snowball sampling was employed to determine the sample size. The research questionnaires consist of two parts: the first part pertains to personal characteristics such as age, marital status, gender, income, occupation, and education, while the second part focuses on research variables, including brand image and loyalty, cultural and social factors, security, economic aspects, infrastructure facilities, open spaces, spatial identity, physical characteristics, lighting and ventilation, management and maintenance, landscape, and transportation access for high-rise buildings and houses. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software, employing one-sample t-statistical methods and a Pearson correlation coefficient. Perceptual mapping was employed to depict the brand positioning of high-rise complexes and low-rise apartments from residents’ perspectives, aiming to address the research question.Findings: According to the findings, houses and low-rise apartments are positioned favorably in terms of image and housing brand compared to high-rise towers, as indicated by perceptual maps. However, satisfaction with high-rise towers is ideal in comparison to houses and low-rise apartments on perceptual maps. The one-sample t-test results indicate that the significance level for most variables is below 0.05, leading to the confirmation of the alternative hypothesis (H1) at a confidence level of 95%. This confirms a significant relationship between the average rank of residents’ perspectives and housing pattern dimensions. Consequently, an obvious difference exists between residents’ perceptions of brand positioning for houses and low-rise apartments against high-rise residential towers, with the former showing better image and brand loyalty. Additionally, Pearson correlation tests reveal a positive and significant correlation between image and brand loyalty variables, as well as housing satisfaction with individual characteristics such as marital status, income, occupation, age, and education. However, no significant negative correlation was found between image and loyalty with regards to gender. The results indicate a significant relationship between image variables, brand loyalty, and satisfaction with individual characteristics at a 95% confidence level, with significance levels of 000, 0.001, 000, 0.001, 0.003, and 0.001 for gender, marriage, income, job, age and education respectively, and with respective correlation coefficients of 0.46, 0.605, 0.337 0.250, 0.652 0.561.Conclusion: Peripheral and horizontal urban development not only leads to the reduction of agricultural lands surrounding cities but also gives rise to various other significant issues. These include rising costs associated with urban infrastructure creation and maintenance, intensifying congestion and traffic, and increasing the length and frequency of commutes. In response to the negative effects of urban over-expansion, which have economic, social, and environmental consequences, new approaches to urban development planning have emerged since the 1990s. These methods, inspired by the principles of sustainable urban development introduced in the 1970s, advocate for mixed land use development, prioritization of public transportation-centered development, and intra-city sustainable development initiatives, saving widespread support. Recent census data from 1976 to 2006 indicates that Ardabil city has experienced horizontal expansion over the years, resulting in the loss of agricultural lands and inadequate services in suburban areas. This underscores issues of spatial injustice and suboptimal land use distribution in certain areas. The research suggests that by promoting the branding of high-rise residential towers and apartments, cities can curb horizontal expansion and promote vertical development. Interestingly, residents perceive houses more favorably than high-rise residential towers. Utilizing effective advertising campaigns can potentially alter citizens’ perceptions of tall buildings, facilitating urban development while minimizing the need for further horizontal expansion.

Evaluating the environmental features of contemporary commercial spaces through youth’s perspective; Case study: Isfahan City Center complex

Sara Sadeghi; Bahram Shahedi; Bahador Zamani; Samar Haghighi Boroojeni

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 357-376

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.288825.1715

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Contemporary commercial spaces fall under quasi-public spaces, which have long served as the physical platforms of social, economic, and ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Contemporary commercial spaces fall under quasi-public spaces, which have long served as the physical platforms of social, economic, and cultural aspects for public life. Today, these spaces are not just confined to commercial functions; rather, they have taken on a cultural turn to turn into places for recreation and leisure of the young people and also social contexts for the formation of their identity and behavior. Also, anthropological developments have changed the man-place and man-man link in the place. In modern society, individual tastes are important, while modernism and change are recognized as the social values of the modern world. Changes made to commercial spaces, on the one hand, and the individual-environment relationship in these spaces, on the other hand, have affected and transformed users’ environmental evaluation criteria of commercial spaces, while creating new challenges and opportunities at the same time. Hence, young people are influential in public and quasi-public spaces, and they should be considered as a large resource in planning processes. The present study aimed to examine the environmental characteristics of contemporary shopping malls from the perspective of the youth by investigating Isfahan City Center Complex as the case study.Methods: The methodology of this study was descriptive-evaluative. Since people’s evaluation of the environment may vary from one individual to another, it is required to adopt a qualitative and exploratory approach to meet this goal. Hence, the present study used case study strategies and qualitative approaches. Data were collected in two general sections. In the first section, a self-evaluation tool was used for the free expression of beliefs and attitudes in the form of semi-structured open-ended interviews. Interview items and propositions were developed based on the conceptual framework of the study, encompassing people’s holistic assessment of locations, the length of time spent in these locations, their preferences within these environments, the driving factors behind their visits, and their suggestions for alterations, reductions, or additions to these places. In the interviews, purposive sampling was used and the interviews with the youth ranging from 20 to 30, who had visited Isfahan City Center Complex, continued in several stages until theoretical saturation was met. As for the validity and reliability of the study, library sources, field observations and two place- and individual-oriented behavior maps or behavior tracking, along with the interviews, were used. These non-interventional field observations were performed in a macro-level behavioral unit, for which behavioral mapping was provided for ten days with the presence of the observer at Isfahan City Center Complex in March 2020. Also, interview data were analyzed using Theme Analysis Technique and Atlas TI 8 Software, while observation data were analyzed by simple descriptive statistics.Findings: All open codes and categories were extracted from interviews and analyzed, as only the final criteria were provided in the form of findings following the investigation of indicators and field observations. These observations were collected for each behavioral center at three-time intervals, while group movements and behaviors were outlined in the form of lines in separate maps; after this, all tracking maps were outlined in the form of a combined map resulting from an overlap of single tracking. In the next step, the validity of the expressions made within the self-evaluation tools, the indicators resulting from responses and their divergence from and convergence with what occurs in field observations were examined and interpreted. Accordingly, the youths’ evaluation of the Isfahan City Center Complex involves a variety of physical-environmental, functional-activity, social-cultural, and individual-psychological dimensions. Each of these dimensions has indicators that sometimes overlap, and are finally presented in the form of theoretical models.Conclusion: Findings revealed that commercial spaces at Isfahan City Center Complex are affected by the environmental factors across physical, functional-activity, social-cultural, and individual dimensions. Consequently, these factors have reshaped the complex, turning it into a quasi-public space characterized by diverse social and cultural interactions. As a result, new commercial space experiences have emerged, particularly for young individuals. In addition, non-environmental economic factors, marketing and managerial factors, complex maintenance, sales festivals and customer affairs and services affect young peoples’ evaluation. Thus, planners and officials are required to consider physical, functional and social changes to affect the quantity and quality of mandatory, voluntary and social behavioral patterns in spaces. Considering physical structures proportionate to some voluntary behaviors, interactive social behaviors and social partnerships, such as creating spatial diversity, along with intermediary spaces and natural views, creating a system of interactive equipment and furniture to create official and non-official sitting opportunities, creating unofficial and flexible collective spaces using decorations, local elements and symbols for holding ceremonies, and establishing social, religious and national festivals and ceremonies, which conform to our culture in local market samples, could contribute to this goal. In this regard, it is essential to use collaborative approaches between young users and space officials in designing and planning contemporary commercial spaces, such as Isfahan City Center Complex. In the end, concerning commercial spaces planning, it is required to strike a balance between preserving elements from local cultures and historical spaces, as seen in traditional examples, and incorporating these elements into contemporary contexts.

Explaining the relationship between land use mixing and urban stress; Case study: Zone 8, Municipal District 1, Tehran

Khatereh Moghani Rahimi; Mostafa Behzadfar; Samaneh Jalilisadrabad

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 385-397

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2024.367384.2001

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Urbanization is growing rapidly in this world (Evans et al., 2020a, 1). In 2007, half of the world’s population lived in cities (Chinomnso, ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Urbanization is growing rapidly in this world (Evans et al., 2020a, 1). In 2007, half of the world’s population lived in cities (Chinomnso, 2014, 4). This ratio will reach 70% in 2050 (Adli & Schondorf, 2020, 2). Cities are exposed to many issues and problems due to the many advantages they have (Mahmoudzadeh and Harishchian, 2017, 60). For example, urban life affects mental health (Kyriakou & Resch, 2019, 1) and exposure to stress is the most important factor in increasing mental disorders in cities (Streit et al., 2014, 352). In fact, the stress of modern urban life or urban stress can be a basis for mental disorders (Kennedy & Adolphs, 2011, 452). Urban stress is one of the important causes of physical and mental diseases, moral anomalies, reduction of security and waste of human capital in cities. For this reason, it is necessary for urban planners and designers to pay special attention to this issue in their plans and projects. The location of land uses also has a great impact on the quality of life and the efficiency of related services, and one of the basic tasks of urban planners is to allocate land to different uses (Javadi et al., 2013, 23, 24). Today, with the expansion of new urbanism, smart growth and sustainable development approaches, the application of land use mixing as one of the important principles of these approaches in urban planning in advanced countries has increased (Pourmohammadi et al., 2014, 34) and land use mixing has become one of the important cases in the model Spatial planning has become. which includes many benefits such as reducing intra-city trips and reducing dependence on cars, increasing productivity in land use, strengthening the efficiency of land use and increasing social relations of citizens (Javadi et al., 2013, 25). Also, mixing of uses reduces the cost of providing infrastructure in the city (Zarafshan et al., 2019, 175) and improves the sense of belonging of citizens (Kotharkar & Bahadure, 2012, 1). But even though in recent years, many studies have separately dealt with urban stress and mixed use, no study has been done to explain the relationship between the two. For this purpose, this research has been conducted with the aim of explaining the relationship between urban stress and land use mix in district 8 of district 1 of Tehran municipality, which is the most stressful district of this district based on the conditions of Tehran city and the opinion of experts. Considering the importance of the subject, this research has been done with the aim of measuring the amount of mixed use and urban stress in the studied sample and explaining the relationship between these two subjects.Methods: The research method in this research is descriptive-analytical and based on the purpose of applied research. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to collect data and regression analysis method was used to analyze them. First, in order to select the sample to be studied, Delphi method was used and by summarizing the opinions of a group of experts in district 8 of one district of Tehran municipality, it was selected as the sample to be studied. For the overall analysis of the research, 37 urban stress indicators have been identified, of which information on 15 cases has been collected through questionnaires and surveys from area residents, and others through quantitative methods such as field sampling, spatial analysis, and library studies. Also, the information related to the mix of uses has been obtained through the entropy coefficient method. According to the population of the area in the last census (59,429) and Cochran’s formula (with a confidence level of 95%, an error of 0.05% and a normal variable rate of 1.96), the minimum number of questionnaires was 381, and finally 413 questionnaires that provided information about It questions 20 measures, distributed in blocks as a simple random sampling. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to measure the reliability of the questionnaire, which was calculated as 0.73. Finally, in order to measure the relationship between mixed use and urban stress reported by citizens, regression analysis has been done. In fact, the analysis used in this article is a simple linear regression analysis. In this analysis, the degree of dependence and the direction of the influence of the independent variable on the dependent variable are examined.Findings: The findings of the research indicate that the value of the correlation coefficient between the independent and dependent variable is 0.738, which shows that there is a high correlation between mixed use and urban stress. Also, the adjusted or modified coefficient of determination shows that 54% of the total changes in the stressfulness of people’s living environment are related to the mix of uses of their living areas, and the remaining 46% of the changes are related to other variables. In other words, the mix of uses predicts 54% of the variance of the dependent variable. These two variables have an inverse relationship with each other, and the greater the mix of uses in a block, the less urban stress. In fact, it can be said that the user mix index is able to predict changes in citizens’ stress.Conclusion: As a result, by improving the mix of uses in urban blocks, urban stress can be significantly reduced and the mental health of citizens can be improved. In order to improve the mix of users, effective solutions can be used such as: 24-hour users, or the placement of compatible users in floors, etc. Also, conducting this study in other study samples can be very effective. Considering that the measurement of mixed use and stress in this study was investigated in one area, it seems that conducting this study in other areas or at the city level will clarify the hidden aspects of the relationship between these two variables.

Volume 14 (2023)

Volume 13 (2022)

Volume 12 (2021)

Volume 11 (2020)

Volume 10 (2019)

Volume 9 (2018)

Volume 8 (2018)

Volume 7 (2017)

Volume 6 (2016)

Volume 5 (2015)

Volume 4 (2014)

Volume 3 (2013)

Volume 2 (2011)

Volume 1 (2010)

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