Journal of Iranian Architecture & Urbanism(JIAU)

Identifying and prioritizing the affecting factors on enhancing the mediating quality of architecture (Case study: Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University)

Ali Pourahmad Ghalejough; Farzin Haghparast; Mohammad Taghi Pirbabaei

Volume 13, Issue 1 , May 2022, , Pages 69-84

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.247306.1509

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Media has always been a platform for activities related to the human intellect. It has become an integral part of human life in various ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Media has always been a platform for activities related to the human intellect. It has become an integral part of human life in various forms and contexts by the supporting role of technology. On the other hand, many thinkers and theorists have introduced architecture as a physical media that can be perceived and analyzed at different theoretical levels. Despite these interpretations that recognize buildings with intrinsic mediating factors, a clear theoretical framework of such relationships and the interaction between architecture and media has not yet been identified. This study seeks to answer two main questions: what indicators affect the procedure in which architecture turns into a media? And, how can a model of the affecting factors and categories be identified to explain the connection between architecture and media clearly? Therefore, this study aims to identify and prioritize the effective factors for mediating the quality of architecture. Finally, it tries to present a model for recognizing architecture as media based on a case study, the historical building of the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at Tabriz Islamic Art University, as an example of adaptive reuse in historic buildings.Methods: This research is fundamental-experimental in terms of purpose, and descriptive survey in terms of entity and method, using a case study. According to the related literature, 12 faculty members of the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at Tabriz Islamic Art University constituted the Delphi panel of experts. All the panel members were among the recognized experts in specific fields of architecture. In the first round of Delphi, indicators and brainstorming were conceptualized through semi-structured interviews with panel members in person and virtually. After analyzing the content of the interviews, by combining the factors obtained from the literature and the achieved indicators from experts’ opinions, 34 indicators effective in improving the mediating quality of architecture were extracted in four categories. In the second round of Delphi, the validity and reliability of the research tools were approved by the faculty members and the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Then, the experts scored the factors in close-ended questionnaires and 5-point Likert scale, and the data were analyzed using TOPSIS technique. Kendall’s coefficient of concordance was used to assess the consensus among the experts, and the prioritized factors were also introduced along with the descriptive statistics components such as the average indices presented in tables and plots. Finally, by comparing the results of the TOPSIS technique with the results extracted from the descriptive statistics, the accuracy of the results and their validity were ensured.Findings: The ratings and findings obtained from the average index differed slightly from the results extracted from the TOPSIS technique. The reason can be stated in the higher accuracy of this technique in prioritizing and presenting rankings and closeness indeces of each factor in the research. The factors of “Indicator of the art of technology and crafting in time” with the closeness index of 0.610652, “Reflector of the culture of people in the society” with the closeness index of 0.579874, “Creator of new sensory perceptions” with the closeness index of 0.561471, “Being a benchmark in the city context” with the closeness index of 0.560705, and “Represents the evolution of history” with the closeness index of 0.558936 were among the highest priorities in the factors affecting the mediating quality in architecture. Also, the factors of “A communicator” with the closeness index of 0.436028, and “The presence of a power in creating the message” with the closeness index of 0.457395 were recognized as the minor priorities. By calculating the averages of closeness indeces in each category, the most effective categories in improving the mediating quality in architecture are “Factors relating to the application of media”, “Factors relating to the impacts of media”, “Factors relating to the message”, and “Factors relating to the intrinsic characteristics of media”, that were introduced with the mean averages of 0.544508, 0.503928, 0.495541 and 0.491413, respectively.Conclusion: The final model of architecture as a media and factors affecting the enhancement of mediating quality were presented as the research conclusion. Hence, if architecture is not considered a physical media and does not have a mediating role, it can no longer be called architecture and will no longer differentiate its nature from a structure. Architecture continuously transmits its character, ideas, thoughts, mindsets, approaches, history, time, and specifically its message to the future and performs as a meta-media concept. Also, the body and audience of architecture change its media nature, and its mediating quality causes various spatial reproductions in the minds of the people and a wide range of users.

Conservation-Based Development Approach in Identifying Urban Landscape of Zahedan City during Pahlavi Period Using Layered Semiotics

Sahar Rastegar Zhaleh; Behnam Pedram; Mostafa Kiani

Volume 11, Issue 1 , August 2020, , Pages 73-94

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.155956.1121

Abstract

Extended Abstract Statement of Problem: The urban landscape of Zahedan is a multi-layered text in which different human, natural, and artificial layers are placed next to each other ... Read More Extended Abstract Statement of Problem: The urban landscape of Zahedan is a multi-layered text in which different human, natural, and artificial layers are placed next to each other according to paradigmatic/ syntagmatic principles. Using a rhizomatic communication process and applying the negotiation and intra-code translation tool, these layers have created a meaningful complex. Due to their dialectical relationship with the development process, they have also obtained new identity characteristics, capabilities, and capacities in line with the previous paradigm since their emergence, regarding the changes resulted from the development and progress. But in the recent decades, due to the absence of negotiating and appropriate communicating with the city’s traditional codes, the development process as an “other” has disrupted its rhizomatic behavior and created a gap in the city’s coherent network. In this paradigm shift, today, the residents of Zahedan city are faced with a chaotic narrative and have relatively lost their sense of belonging and affiliation to the city. Research method: The present study aims to present a solution to identify the urban landscape of Zahedan city during Pahlavi period. This is made possible by retrieval and reading of identification signs hidden in the city layers, using layered semiotics and generation method. Layered semiotics implies that the text of a city is gradually formed by encoding/decoding of the codes that are common in a group of humans, and become understandable in the same way. Results: The human layer in the urban landscape of Zahedan has emerged in the city fabric through the convergence of values, worldviews, and socio-cultural foundations that have been present since the formation of the initial city core up to date. The presence of different ethnicities and nationalities such as Sistani, Baluch, Birjandi, Kermani, Yazdi, Afghan, Pakistani, and Indian, each having different beliefs, religions and paradigms, has given a unique feature to the city. Various individuals of different nationalities in Zahedan city come from a context composed of other contexts in itself. Thereby, in the context of Zahedan city, we are in a fluid and dynamic network of habits that are rhizomatically interconnected and have formed a complex called Zahedan urban landscape. The artificial layer is a combination of different contexts derived from the diversity of human layer contexts. This means that the form of constructed buildings, type of materials, construction techniques, the use or loss of decorations and colors, spatial layout of public and residential spaces, and other factors in the urban landscape of Zahedan city during the First Pahlavi period result from at least three major contexts: 1) The “so-called modern” architecture and common way of thinking during the First Pahlavi period and during Reza Shah reforms; 2) The traditional architecture in desert areas of Iran adopted by people of Yazd and Kerman, observed in the city’s significant and prominent buildings; and 3) Vernacular architecture adopted by other residents including Baluch and Sistani, which is also derived from the cultures and subcultures of these people’s primary habitat. The people representing a context have an influence on the city, regarding their status and authority. Conclusion: Considering the connection of rhizomes and the link between the codes existing at their connection points, changes occur in urban landscapes where some signs are found, changed, or demolished. The only solution for the survived signs is to maintain them in their status quo. In case the signs are deteriorated and completely disappeared, it is better to be recreate (reconstruct) or regenerate them by infill development, as long as the originality and ancient identity are not impaired. In this way, a new sign can act as a symbol of an old sign in the past times and be reminiscent of something lost/eliminated over time. There are also various solutions for dealing with corrupted or changed signs: if the sign changes are in line with the contemporary currents and discourses and at the same time adhere to the old signs and features of the original urban cultural landscape fabric, the signs can be conserved in the same state; and if the sign changes distort the meaning of the place or destroy its identity, the changed sign can be re-modified by another change in the existing discourse. In other words, a new discourse in line with the urban identity and at the same time in accordance to contemporary requirements can be created in latter case. In this way, the conservationist seeks to expand the frameworks through criticizing, translating, measuring the frameworks, and dealing with the “other”, thereby reproducing the distorted meaning by creating a link between the existing codes at different times; an intervention that can be resumed in the present time and changed over time. However, it is not aimed at reproducing or imitating the pre-existing patterns and signs; because, repeating the signs without linking them to their history, breaks the urban spatial-temporal integrity and undermines the concept of authenticity. Rather, it is meant to create a balanced relationship between the urban network and the changes that occurred due to the developments of these areas. So, the created change can conserve its meaning. In this way, the city regains its legibility through signs, regenerates its lost identity, simplifies its meaning and restores its identity easily.

Investigating the Evolution of Computation Role in Simulating the Formation Process of Natural Phenomena for Generating Architectural Forms

Yashar Gharachamani Asl; Mohamad Baharvand; Sahar Toofan

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 73-88

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.242338.1476

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Thinking about nature and paying attention to how biological phenomena grow and take shape has a long history and is more valuable than superficial ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Thinking about nature and paying attention to how biological phenomena grow and take shape has a long history and is more valuable than superficial and formal imitation. But more scientific and technical ability is needed to implement it in practice. This may be due to the superficial selection of complex and unambiguous topics due to weaknesses in scientific fields or lack of technical facilities for implementation. Given the technical and scientific developments in recent decades, the possibility of such an inherent approach is not far from the mind. The emergence of new theories and computing methods derived from biological systems over the past few decades has made it possible to deepen the principles and rules of the form production process. The main question is: how can biological growth and formation patterns be used to methodize the process of producing architectural forms? The main purpose of this article is to investigate the modeling and growth processes in biological phenomena to be used in the methodization of the form production process in architecture. One of the patterns in the growth process of biological phenomena is the differential growth pattern.Methods: The research method in the present research is descriptive-analytical, and data collection includes library studies and documents. First, the theoretical and practical backgrounds of computing inspired by biological principles and their evolutionary evolution were examined. Then, using a simulation research method with a logical reasoning strategy, different growth patterns were formed. Finally, during the process, the production of the architectural form was tested and examined. In a simulation experiment, a model of the growth pattern was presented in the production of computer forms. In the analytical part of the present study, considering the importance of the role of algorithmic thinking in modeling the growth process and the formation of biological phenomena for the computational production of an architectural form, a logical reasoning strategy was established to provide a logical thinking system for realizing a relationship between biological realities in the growth process. It has been used to form a general conceptual framework in order to describe the subject and formulate growth guidelines using the abstract values of producing architectural form. Findings: This research started with the classification and analysis of theories in the field of computing inspired by biological processes, according to the time hierarchy of their occurrence, then continued with the introduction of new computing methods inspired by biological principles. Finally, this research was completed using such theories and methods in the production of the digital form. The result is evidence of the historical and evolutionary course of such an approach from theory to practice. For more clarity, theories, methods, and manufacturing processes are presented below with an evolution timeline, which is a new step in this field of research. Achieving the ability to simulate computational theories demonstrates the possibility of modeling growth processes and the formation of biological phenomena in the process of producing an architectural form along a path called computing. In this process, the growth algorithm is programmed within the software environment and then equated. So that all the parameters affecting the formation and growth of the organism are identified and entered into the algorithm, and then the virtual growth process takes place. The result of such an algorithm is the application of the construction method of these organisms to architectural projects and the use of the characteristics of that organism to increase the efficiency of space. In this process, architecture can inherit the qualities that the process of natural products has given to the organism and imitate them in their appearance and form, as well as in their function and behavior.. Conclusion: The form of the process is first generated in the virtual environment by entering various environmental parameters as well as various growth patterns. Then, if it responds to the mentioned environmental conditions and parameters, it will be placed in the path of digital manufacturing and built physically. As a result, the presence of such forms in the not-too-distant future in urban environments and architecture is still being determined. Therefore, the direction of research is more in the field of opinion. Nevertheless, attempts have been made in the field of architecture to create a new design logic based on the path of growth patterns. Naturally, this research is the beginning of further research in areas such as biology and algorithms. Subsequent researchers can examine and test other natural patterns, with a wider range of variables, in the algorithmic process, and step into the development of the research literature. The main result is that algorithmic simulation of growth patterns and the formation of biological phenomena through the computer channel can effectively create new methods for the architectural form production process.

Investigating the Evaluative Mental Image of Ahvaz Citizens Along Karun River (Case Study: The Enclosure Between White Bridge and Nature Bridge)

Mohammad Didehban; Shirin Sardarmoori; Parisa Ansarian; Parnian Zadehmorad

Volume 11, Issue 2 , December 2020, , Pages 77-92

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.145165.1061

Abstract

Extended Abstract Objective and Background: Urban space can be of great benefit to humans when it meets their expectations, making sense in the form of various environmental, social, ... Read More Extended Abstract Objective and Background: Urban space can be of great benefit to humans when it meets their expectations, making sense in the form of various environmental, social, physical, economic, and other dimensions. Evaluative images reflect the city’s effective public mental image and provide a useful picture of the perceived quality of the dominant elements of the city. The urban landscape is important because it can act as a source of satisfaction for the people or a remedy for the daily concerns of life. The reshaping of the city must be guided by a visual program, the development of which requires an awareness of how people value urban landscape and its meaning. Methods: This study was conducted to examine Ahvaz citizens’ mental image of the elements along the banks of Karun River using evaluative criteria, such as a sense of relaxation, security, satisfaction, motivation, excitement, and popularity. This paper is an applied research project that has used quantitative and descriptive methods conducted by the recognition-evaluation method (evaluative images). The present study uses a random sampling method in which the female and male respondents are classified equally. The statistical population consists of Ahvaz citizens who were present in the area (residents and non-residents). Respondents were categorized by dividing the area into eight sections. The Cochran model was used to sample and estimate the sample size and to distribute the questionnaire. According to the results of this model, the statistical sample size is 186. The data were collected to evaluate the individuals’ mental image and the degree to which these images were desirable or not (degree of effectiveness) using a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the SPSS 20 Software. The questionnaire structure consists of two parts. People with the same conditions were not questioned. Therefore, the first part of the questionnaire included questions about age, gender, the number of visits to the park, the vicinity of the living space to the park, the purpose of going to the park (e.g., recreation, exercise, work, study and meeting with friends), and the time of going to the park. The second part of the questionnaire were prepared and formulated to evaluate Ahvaz citizens’ mental images of the elements along the banks of Karun River following the theoretical research foundations using the “evaluative mental images” method. Findings: The research findings indicated that the general public agreed on the spaces’ visual attractiveness and unattractiveness. According to the evaluative attributes, Ahvaz citizens create strong positive evaluative mental images from the spaces with different functions and high environmental qualities. In contrast, low-quality spaces create poor evaluative mental images in people’s minds. A poor mental image can be created in the viewer’s mind due to low security levels, low-quality equipment, dark sidewalks, dirt and pollution, insufficient sitting spaces on the river banks to watch the river landscape, placement of the settings in solitude and existence of unknown places (i.e., inappropriate location), and finally insufficient green space in the surroundings. This leads to an unpleasant feeling of space for the citizens. However, among the elements and spaces along the banks of Karun River, the bridges, the beach restaurants, the special scenery (e.g., the botanical garden, the sculpture, and the elements), the children’s playground (due to its symbolic nature), the positive nostalgia in the viewer’s mind, the novelty of spaces and functions, and the contrast with the surrounding environment, have formed a positive mental image in the viewer’s mind. Conclusion: According to studies, Ahvaz citizens’ mental image is lower than the theoretical average due to the low evaluative attributes of walking and sports paths, riverside, youth hangouts, and green spaces. In other words, these spaces have created a poor mental image in the viewer’s mind. Also, an unpleasant feeling has been created in the citizens due to low level of security and quality of facilities, lack of lighting in the walking paths, pollution, lack of sitting space in the riverside to watch the river landscape, placement of the settings in solitude and existence unknown places (inappropriate location) and finally lack of different green space structure in the surrounding. However, among the existing spaces and elements in Karun riverside, bridges, beach restaurants, spectacular landscapes (botanical gardens, statue, and element), and children playground have created a positive mental image in the viewer’s mind due to being a symbol and sign of positive memory in the viewer’s mind, and due to the novelty of the spaces and function and contradiction with the surrounding environment. According to the research findings, the attributes of each section have been lower than the average and have had poor environmental quality. Therefore, it can be said that the following measures can be useful in improving the citizens’ mental image in Karun Riverside. It can be improved by increasing the quality of the environment, enhancing the quality of sidewalks, creating navigation, increasing the social security in Karun Riverside using proper lighting. Provision of required facilities in various spaces along Karun Riverside, providing adequate sitting places, toilets, pavilions, buffet, and restaurants, and beautifying the area by eliminating the corners and blind spots is also helpful. Increasing the lighting in spaces and paths, improving the quality of green space, and applying green space in different parts and increasing the number of symbolic elements are other effective solutions.

The Design Pattern of Optimal Combined Envelope in Generating Solar Electricity Using Genetic Algorithm in Iran's Cold Climate

Alireza Farhangi Khanghah; Yousef Gorji Mahlabani; Seyed Majid Mofidi Shemirani; Hossein Medi

Volume 12, Issue 2 , December 2021, , Pages 83-101

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.241977.1473

Abstract

Extended AbstractObjective and Background: According to the International Energy Agency, the construction sector accounts for more than 33 percent of total energy consumption per capita ... Read More Extended AbstractObjective and Background: According to the International Energy Agency, the construction sector accounts for more than 33 percent of total energy consumption per capita as the largest energy consumer globally, while in Iran, the share is accounting for 40 percent. Meanwhile, the loss of nearly 11 percent of electrical energy while transmitting it through grid lines to cities has led to the rapid growth of a decentralized generation of electricity at end-use through building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems over the past fifteen years. Exposing to the Sun, façades have great potential to supply the electricity needs of energy-efficient buildings using photovoltaic panels. However, the improper orientation to the radiation direction, especially in summer, reduces the efficiency of PV panels integrated into the facades. Aiming to increase the efficiency of the southern BIPV’s facade, this research introduces an optimal combined pattern of PV panels and flat reflectors as an integrated system capable of improving both the intensity and the area of solar irradiation on panels.Methods: The research has an applied approach, and the method of the research is founded on experimental and simulation models. Research tools used in the study process include descriptive geometry to analyze solar radiation and reflection on the panels, study models to consider the reflections, and Grasshopper plugin in Rhino software environment as a parametric tool to simulate the proposed integrated envelope. Ladybug plugin has also been used to extract solar radiation properties from the climate information file generated by Meteonorm software. At first, the experimental and analytical method was used to find the best concept for the combination, and then the logical reasoning method was applied to select the best pattern among the possible alternatives for a combined, concentrated photovoltaic facade. At the second stage, defining the constructing parameters, the proposed envelope is simulated aiding Grasshopper software. The parameters are optimized using the genetic algorithm through the Octopus plugin. At the third and final stage, input data, related to the index days, entered to the algorithm and optimization process was done so that the best values have been introduced for each input data to fulfill the research objectives. Then through a comparative process the best setting for each month, and finally for the entire year was selected and introduced. Findings: Having determined the optimum constructing parameters, the study calculated the proposed geometry output efficacy. The results showed significant increase in output power up to 87.38% in summer (June 21), 36.33% in spring (March 21), and 17.83% in winter (December 21) with an average of 46.44% during the year. The findings of the study addressed the six main parameters of the combined envelope influencing the efficiency. These parameters can be divided into two groups based on their effect. The first group includes lateral angle of side mirrors, lateral angle of underneath mirrors, horizontal depth of side mirrors with 52.75, 47.75, and 39.25 percent impact on "surface area of radiation" and with 64.5, 39.33, and 51.75 percent effect on the "increase in radiation intensity" respectively. The second group, meant, the number of panels in the vertical direction, side mirrors slope angle and the underneath mirrors ‘slope angle with 34.75, 23.25 and 18.75 percent of the impact on “the area of radiation" respectively, and 10.5, 15, and 13.7 percent of the effect on the "increase in radiation intensity" are at the fourth to sixth order of influence on the proposed envelope- efficiency. It’s proved that changing the most vital parameters affect the amount of “increase in radiation” up to 64.14% and cause 62.21% variation on “increasing the area of reflection” values while for the least influencing parameters, these items were calculated 15.85% and 15.90%, respectively.Conclusion: Facades integrated photovoltaic panels have low efficiencies due to the non-optimal angle of the building envelope to the radiation, especially in summer. On the other hand, the need to design openings, particularly in the southern facade of the building, reduces the solar system’s efficiency by reducing the area of installable panels. In this study, the strategy of combining a flat reflector with PV panels in the form of a novel geometry was used to form the main idea to increase the efficiency of BIPVs. In this research, the two main criteria meant, radiation intensity and the area of reflection, were considered as objective functions in optimization. The results showed that using the proposed integrated system during the year will increase the radiation intensity by an average of 38.8% and the reflection area by 46.70%. However, they will improve, in order, up to 71.41% and 100.53% in summer. In other words, using the proposed model, about 30% of the southern facade surface can be allocated to openings, and at the same time, the irradiated surface during the year is considered equal to the total facade surface. The study showed that the electrical output power in summer, using the proposed model, will increase to 88%, and for the two seasons of winter and spring, it will be 17.84 and 34.36%, respectively. The study showed that the proposed geometry could be introduced as a practical solution to enhance the façade integrated photovoltaic efficiency. So, it is capable of generating more electricity, especially in the cold climate of Iran.

The judgment strategies of architectural designs and its role in the students’ learning process

Maedeh Mayahi; Saeid Mirriahi; Mohammadebrahim Mazhary; Yadollah Mehralizadeh

Volume 13, Issue 1 , May 2022, , Pages 85-103

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.232738.1428

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: A continuous and comprehensive learning process depends on the proper teaching method in every pioneer education system. The evaluation process ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: A continuous and comprehensive learning process depends on the proper teaching method in every pioneer education system. The evaluation process of architectural designs is meant to judge the designs. It measures the ratio of variable criteria in the design from the desired aspect and then evaluates it. Due to the pivotal role of judgment in the architecture curriculum, if the evaluation process is unclear and no productive criticism ambiance is provided, personal interpretations or unrelated demands to educational goals may distort the judgment process and prevent the flourishment of the students’ development and talents. If the judgment criteria are known, the students’ gradual quantitative and qualitative progression will be achieved, increasing their scope of the understanding of the architectural education system and its representation method. The present research was conducted to recognize the indicators and criteria affecting the evaluation of university architectural designs as a part of the student’s learning process to provide a better evaluation method that is more accurate and objective. The comprehensive education process in teaching is investigated in learning and assessment. In the current study, the role of the architectural design evaluation in learning and improving students’ scientific knowledge is investigated.Methods: This research uses a mixed-method (qualitative-quantitative), and it is considered applied research. The statistical population comprises 15 faculty members at Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran University, Iran University of Science and Technology, and Shahid Chamran University of Ahwaz. A systematic, non-random sampling method was applied, and the samples were selected according to the educational fields due to the importance of scoring and its direct effect on the research results. Bearing in mind that students are one of the most important factors in the evaluation process, the students’ opinions were considered in the architectural design evaluation. Therefore, the master’s students of Architectural Design (3) of Islamic Azad University, Ahwaz Branch, were selected as the statistical population. Data was collected using a Likert scale questionnaire. In order to assess the research model, the results were analyzed using SPSS software and applying the Spearman Correlation Test, and in order to assess its validity, the Friedman test was used to prioritize the variables. Experts’ grading was considered in the final assessment of the architectural design projects. The results obtained from the questionnaires effectively provide proposed strategies and score the criteria and judgment rules of the architectural design projecects.Findings: The research findings showed a significant difference between 4 components affecting the final product. The impact ratio of each one on the final product is different. The results showed that studies and technical knowledge, with a correlation coefficient of 0.535 and a significance level of 0.04, have the highest impact on the final product. This component has been the most important and effective factor in the final product. The other effective factors are design skills, design process development, and initial knowledge. The initial knowledge component has the least impact on the final product compared to other components. The results of Friedman’s ranking test showed that the sub-component in the analysis and interpretation of final results, presentation technique, and replica has the highest average rank. These sub-components have been the most important sub-component affecting the judgment of university projects. Then there is the design idea, creativity and form of the building, the subject, and the ability to analyze and present. The results show that these sub-components have the highest impact on the final judgment of the designs compared to other sub-components. And the sub-components of the impact ratio of planning and functional design and oral presentation have the least impact on the final judgment of the designs. The weighted index of 5 main components affecting the judgment of final designs based on the ranking of sub-component tests is the final product, study and technical knowledge, design skill, design process development, and primary knowledge, respectively.Conclusion: According to the conducted studies, evaluation seems to have an important and valuable place in the learning process. If students are dissatisfied with this process, it will have a devastating effect on their learning. In this regard, holding “learner-centered” sessions was suggested to evaluate the design process during the semester and increase students’ learning. Since the highest scores were given to learning in classroom evaluation, specialization, and roundtable discussion, it is recommended that the professors collaboratively hold their design classes and invite professional architects as experts to make students more familiar with the market in the initial sessions. The students should be able to choose their professor among the studio professors to reduce the student’s confusion after the initial class sessions and the student’s familiarity with the professors’ viewpoints. It is better to hold classroom evaluation sessions in a participatory and roundtable manner, and students of various levels attend the classrooms. This research suggests strategies for professors and decision-makers for architectural design judgment, reducing students’ stress and worries and increasing their self-confidence in the architecture design studio. Suggestions for architectural evaluation and policy making are made to promote the level of architecture education and ultimately train students and competent architects.

Analytical Study of Urban River Regeneration as a Sustainable Public Place and Explanation of its Conceptual Model; Case studies: Balgholi Chai (Ardabil), Zayandehrood (Isfahan), Karun (Ahvaz), Zarjoub (Rasht)‎

Seyed Mojtaba Safdarnejad; Seyed Abdolhadi Daneshpour; Mostafa Behzadfar

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 89-110

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2022.248179.1512

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Urban rivers are public spaces whose relationship with humans has been the focus of renewed attention in the 2000s and are considered a suitable ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Urban rivers are public spaces whose relationship with humans has been the focus of renewed attention in the 2000s and are considered a suitable opportunity for local communities. The experiences of the cities such as Dezful, Isfahan, Shushtar, etc., show that rivers have played an effective role in locating and expanding cities, providing water and energy, ventilation and climate comfort, creating social spaces and spending leisure time, and have been a part of the residents’ lives. However, their current situation indicates oblivion and ignorance of the links between people, cities, and rivers. So, rivers have faced many challenges, such as instability, pollution, habitat destruction, and malfunctions with the rapid development of urbanization. In urban design, this situation has weakened the spatial quality and turned rivers into wetlands with various problems. Therefore, any effort to preserve and restore these water sources is very important. In this regard, urban design can play an important role by re-establishing the links between the city and the river. For this purpose, the current research seeks an integrated approach of “river regeneration as a sustainable public place”; A natural-urban area that brings the river from the peripheral regions to the urban context to be effective in the quality of urban life. The latter approach of “sustainable waterfront urban regeneration” seeks to revive them as “sustainable places” in balance with the category of ecological protection. The current research is trying to explain how to revive the river as a sustainable public place while investigating people’s assessment of the measures taken on rivers and their macro quality as public places.Methods: The philosophical foundation of the research is pragmatism. Therefore, the research approach is combinational, and the research method is based on the case study of the rivers in Isfahan, Ahvaz, Ardabil, and Rasht. The concepts and methods of sustainable revitalization have been analyzed through literature review and similar experiences and have been completed through field surveys based on content analysis and contextual theory.Findings: “Sustainable revitalization of the river as a sustainable public place” is a comprehensive and integrated approach and a strategic and synergistic program in the framework of sustainable development (with a priority on the environmental dimension) in line with connecting the river with the city’s life system and returning it to the context of citizens’ lives. So, this framework is introduced along with revitalizing the river and paying attention to its challenges, with minimal physical interventions and changing the instrumental view of humans, through the processes of bed creation, place-making, exploitation, place ownership, and place cultivation, as a “sustainable public place” focusing on the urban rivers to emerge, play a role in the social life of citizens and compete with other economic sectors. Using the latest aspect of sustainable urban regeneration, i.e., creating a “sustainable place” that relies on the dimension of social sustainability as a certainty of development, this approach has made the public space of urban rivers centered on the river a criterion of action and the relationship between the city and its residents. It establishes a close relationship with nature. In fact, the attraction and access of the city people to the river by relying on the social aspect of nature, such as spending leisure time, their common interest, the protection of the river in the minds of the citizens, etc., leads to a balance between economic interests and environmental goals and provides public access to the river. Conclusion: The geospatial information of the case studies shows that from people’s point of view, the quality of public places based on Karun and Zarjoub is at a medium to a low level, Balgholi Chai of Ardabil is at a medium level, and Zayandehrood of Isfahan is at a medium to a high level. Nevertheless, corrective measures have improved the condition of the rivers and their public places to some extent. The sustainable revitalization of urban rivers seeks to revive them in the form of a “sustainable public place”. The macro mechanisms of this approach include the balancing of the river dimensions, an active and comprehensive consideration, the facilitation of various functions, a holistic approach to the river, the priority of the river sanitation condition as an open biological system full of diversity, simultaneous focus on “input, process, output, qualities, effects”, river integration, grounding the human presence to experience the place, redefining the place of the river in macro-environmental, social, economic systems, balancing the process with the life cycle of the public place and relying on its formations, paying attention to the expectations of the citizens in the process and facilitating the communication of the city, the citizens, and the river.

Ranking Meaning Determining Factors in the Process of Environmental Perceptions via TOPSIS Technique for Developing the Meaning Cause and Effect Model

Marjan Mohsenzadeh; Mohamad Aliabadi; Javid Ghanbari; Mohamad Hosein Zakeri

Volume 11, Issue 2 , December 2020, , Pages 93-110

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.186497.1219

Abstract

Extended Abstract Objective and Background: Human requires meaning understanding for perception of the environment. Perception is the process by which we select and interpret environmental ... Read More Extended Abstract Objective and Background: Human requires meaning understanding for perception of the environment. Perception is the process by which we select and interpret environmental stimuli to achieve meaningful experiences. In this process, the mind, as an audience, looks for certain dimensions of the subject to find meaning and concept. Every phenomenon, transfers its message through meaning, when it is in the scope of human perception. The first deliberate or unconscious attempt by human beings is based on the creation of a kind of alignment between their mental states and environmental forces arising from the phenomenon. Only in this case effective communication with the environment and a meaningful experience are possible. In other words, human tries to create a personal identity of architectural space in his mind. Therefore, the audience's atmosphere affects our sense of environment by the organization of elements. Therefore, cognition of latent signs in the environment, contributes to meaning perception by the audience. Hence, in environment psychology, the process of perception, finding meaning determinants will help architects to design. Previous studies in the field of humanities and psychology related to meaning have been carried out rarely; with regard to the extent of the factors influencing the formation of meaning, so far, no research in the field of architecture and environmental sciences has examined the these variables. In addition, the influence of these factors and their interactions, prioritization and measurement of their importance are not observed. The purpose of this study is to investigate factors affecting the creation of meaning in the minds of individuals, to rank these factors to find the most effective priorities, to find the means of communication, and interaction of these factors on each other, and to show how they optimally function. Methods: This research is applied and it is descriptive from research design viewpoint, which is carried out in a subgroup of the Delphi-type survey method. In the theoretical section of the research, internet resources, archives, and documentary studies have been used to for finding meaning determinant. In this regard, 28 factors affecting meaning were categorized in five sub-criteria. They included 20 “personal factors” in the three sub-criteria of “social and predestination”, “personality” and “adventitious” and 8 “environmental factors” were categorized in two sub-criteria of “physical environment” and “behavioral environment”. Then, according to TOPSIS requirements, a questionnaire has been developed including 71 pair comparisons in terms of two 9-degree spectra for determining modeling and ranking meaning determinant. Findings: The statistical population of the study consisted of all faculty members and post-graduate students of Shiraz universities. In this research, a questionnaire was used for data collection. To eliminate the risk of sampling errors and increasing the validity of the research, a questionnaire was distributed among the 340 members of the available statistical population through a computer or face-to-face visit. Data were analyzed from 203 returned questionnaires via TOPSIS technique and Shannon entropy method. The results showed that the factors of “identity and personality” (Ci= 1.00, Di+= 0.00, Di-= 0.20) in personality sub-criteria and “the type of human relationship with the environment” (Ci= 1.00, Di+= 0.00, Di-= 0.26) in behavioral environment sub-criteria ranked first. There is no significant difference between personal and environmental criteria in the meaning formation that shows they are not given priority in terms of the meaning formation and they have the same effect. According to the information, attitudes of males and females (Sig= 0.283, H0 result=Not reject), academic rank (Sig= 0.501, H0 result=Not reject) and type of university (Sig= 0.953, H0 result=Not reject) are almost identical and they have the same viewpoint in identifying various factors. Finally, a systematic and comprehensive model of the factors influencing the creation of meaning was developed using Vensim software. Conclusion: 28 effective factors on the meaning, which, 20 “personal factors” in the three sub-criteria of “social and fate”, “personality” and “Acquisition” and 8 “environmental factors” were categorized in two sub-criteria of “physical environment” and “behavioral environment”. Then, the cause and effect model, by forming an interconnected structure of factors, indicates the way relationships and factors interact with each other, depending on their priority. According to the model, each factor influences several factors. The two factors of “Identity and character” and “Type of human relationship with the environment” have a centrality in the loop of influencing factors, which is evidence of their power of influence among the determinants, because they are directly and indirectly involved in the formation of meaning in the mind. On the other hand, the influence of factors such as “Depth of human presence”, “Experiences and skills”, “Family”, “Job”, “culture” and “sense of place”, which are influential in other priorities, are well known. By analyzing these relationships, we conclude that everything that human encounters during his/her life, both consciously and unconsciously, is the source of meaning for him/her. Therefore, designers can increase the quality of architectural space and more effectively communicate with audience by considering and targeting each of these factors. According to the discussion above, architecture separated from its functional aspects conveys meaning; it acts as a mediator for determining the meaning and it can affect their perceptions and behaviors as space users forming the individual's environmental behavior.

Developing Residential Building Typologies with Thermal Efficiency Approach for Residential Buildings in Babolsar City

Maria Kordjamshidi

Volume 11, Issue 1 , August 2020, , Pages 95-114

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.131915.0

Abstract

Extended Abstract Regarding the substantial increase of energy consumption in the building sector, it is necessary to consider construction characteristics in the policymaking processes ... Read More Extended Abstract Regarding the substantial increase of energy consumption in the building sector, it is necessary to consider construction characteristics in the policymaking processes in order to improve the building energy efficiency. Basically, it is infeasible to improve the energy efficiency of the building industry based on the energy characteristics of individual buildings. Political strategies are developed based on the study of building typologies following the climatic conditions of each region. There are limited studies on the types of residential buildings, most of which emphasize on architectural concepts and building formation. Lack of research in the field of housing typology in Iran highlights the necessity to develop an approach toward energy-efficient residential buildings. This study aims to recognize the typologies of residential buildings, focusing on the parameters affecting energy consumption, in Babolsar City, which is selected as a city representative of the humid and mild climate in North of Iran. This paper also tries to evaluate and improve the thermal performances of the recognized typologies based on the Iranian National Building Code (Part 19: Energy Efficiency). The methodology is completed into four main sections: 1) Reviewing the literature in order to identify and select the criteria for developing residential building typologies 2) Conducting a survey on a number of residential samples based on the statistics and distribution of residential buildings in Babolsar city 3) Classifying buildings and presenting plan typologies based on statistical and pictorial analyses 4) Investigating the heat transfer coefficient of the recognized typologies and introducing the optimal patterns according to the Iranian National Building Code (Part 19: Energy Efficiency). Using a descriptive-analytical strategy, this research is based on statistical methods of quantitative analysis and simplifies residential building plan concepts. The data are collected on the field by investigating 384 residential buildings constructed in a period between 1963 and 2016 in Babolsr City. Each sample is scrutinized by completing a questionnaire. The questionnaires are created in two parts: 1- the building general information including, the architectural type (apartment or villa), the age of the building, the number of families, the neighborhood type, the building gross area, the number of bedrooms and building type (flat/apartment, attached/ semi-attached); and 2. the construction details including, the physical parameters of the building such as materials, windows/glazing type, overhang size, thermal insulation, indoor space height, area of external surfaces / controlled / uncontrolled spaces, heating and cooling system, and building envelope details. In other words, all required information and parameters affecting the building energy consumption are included. The residential building samples are classified into ten categories based on the number of families, building type, and neighborhood unit. Typologies are divided into two groups of “villa” and “apartment” housing. Each group has four subsets numbered as A, B, C, and D which differs in terms of total plan area and the position of conditioned/ unconditioned zones. In order to determine a typical plan for each category, all possible plan concepts for each group were designed and codified. Then, the plans of all 384 samples were simplified and codified and categorized in their relevant groups. Finally, a group of higher frequency was chosen as the group representing the typical plan. The eight recognized typologies of this research can be used as reference in any research on housing for evaluating and predicting thermal performance, cost, and energy analysis. The analysis of the thermal performance of the building typologies demonstrated that none of the typologies comply with the Iranian National Building Code (Part 19), in terms of conformity with heat transfer coefficient. Adding a 5-cm thermal insulation, with a heat transfer coefficient of λ = 0.041, to the external wall, and also replacing windows with double-glazed ones are necessary to improve their energy efficiency and achieve the minimum requirement of the building code. The results of this study can be used as a basis for further investigations on energy-efficient building design, in order to improve the thermal performance of buildings rather than developing a regional energy efficiency building code for building construction in the mild climate in north of Iran. The presented typologies can be used as a reference for energy auditing, retrofit actions, and refurbishment measurements, and for quantifying the energy-saving potentials of existing buildings. They can be applied to the existing buildings stock to increase energy performance by considering the optimal tradeoff between policymaking and cost. The results are also important for developing and modifying regulations. Further studies are required to make the result of this study applicable to other climatic regions in Iran.

Conceptual Model for Place in Concordance the Feature of Space and Time (Case Study: Imamzadeh Yahya Tehran)

Ghazal Goodarzi; Mostafa Behzadfar; Yousefali Ziari

Volume 12, Issue 2 , December 2021, , Pages 103-117

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.231763.1423

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: With the emergence of new urban planning ideas in the present century, thoughts about the construction and design of cities have returned ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: With the emergence of new urban planning ideas in the present century, thoughts about the construction and design of cities have returned to their complex nature, and urban paradigms have always invited people to think and reflect. Urban design is always considered an interdisciplinary science in four dimensions. The dimension of time as a fourth dimension, also emphasized by philosophers in the process of understanding the symmetry of different spatial dimensions, has often been ignored. Urban design based on the space-time paradigm has become one of the new paradigms of urban planning due to its complex concept and the ongoing nature of time. So that design has led to the preservation of time for citizens, and the liberation of space from time constraints has become one of the urban design principles. Also, the city is constantly changing, and the rate of change is different, and this difference is due to the time of change at different times in the city. Therefore, considering the comprehensive changes in the current urban spaces and places, it is important to get acquainted and pay attention to time features. Accordingly, attention to the space-time paradigm can be considered a missing link in urban design, and achieving a framework that clarifies the relationship between place and time and space seems necessary. With a phenomenological approach and a fundamental purpose, this paper introduces the features of place in spaces and urban places. As an example, religious spaces (for the purpose of research) will be considered the main concern. After stating the features of place, the relationship between the two features of time and space (directly) are introduced as the basic elements for understanding the general place and representing the mind (indirectly) for the meaning of spaces and events. Finally, these questions are answered: "What are the space-time indicators and components of the place?; In which order do they play a role in concordance with the place?"Methods: Regarding the research purposes, it is necessary to collect and evaluate both quantitative and qualitative data and go through a reciprocal process in the research, so a mixed research method has been used in this study. First, to explain the place features, in the qualitative part of the research, in-depth and purposeful interviews were conducted in Imamzadeh Yahya in District 12 of Tehran. Therefore, the qualitative variables of the environment were discovered at different times. Then, the obtained indices were categorized by the exploratory factor analysis method and with SPSS software to quantify the data.Findings: The research findings indicate that the space-time indicators in Imamzadeh Yahya, as a special urban place, are validated and prioritized in the form of three main components that are affected by the conformity and impact and interaction of the proposed indicators. These components include "sensory-personal," "behavioral-functional," and "physical-environmental" components. According to this classification, the three indicators of space, time, and mind interact with each other to interpret urban places in the cognitive perception cycle of the place. New concepts emerge when these indicators converge; each of which can carry a set of emotions in people at different times.Conclusion: The results show that sensory sparks are representations or mediators of place that can add value to the place. Meanwhile, the representation of time creates a feeling in the person. The richness of this feeling is influenced by the amount of change in spatial and mental factors. The harmony of all the factors of place creation is very effective in building a thriving urban place. The effect of such harmony and sequence between the components of an urban place acts as a harmonious melody in the heart of the city. If these elements are correctly put together, a pleasant sound will be heard, and its sequence and back and forth cannot be distinguished and recognized. In this context, it seems that considering time as one of the main indicators of place will bring new capabilities in dealing with urban issues.

A framework for regeneration of historical contexts with culture-led approach to achieve sustainable tourism development (Case study: Urmia historical context)

Kyoumars Habibi; Kyoumars Irandoost; Ahmad Sheikh Ahmadi

Volume 13, Issue 1 , May 2022, , Pages 105-123

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.236712.1445

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: This study aims to investigate the capacities of the culture-led regeneration components in the historical context of Urmia and present a ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: This study aims to investigate the capacities of the culture-led regeneration components in the historical context of Urmia and present a strategy to enhance the identity and tourism development in this area. This article provides a framework for a culture-led regeneration in the historical context of Urmia with an emphasis on urban tourism. Theoretical literature has mentioned the cultural tourism approach as a reliable catalyst in culture-led regeneration programs. Successful experiences have shown that this approach can be used to boost the local economy while preserving the artistic and cultural heritage. Also, different religions and ethnicities have the potential to provide a special environment. As in the historical review of Bast in Britain, it was concluded that the social role of culture and art in improving cohesion and social interaction plays an important role in preserving the cultural customs and traditions of societies living in the old context.Methods: This study is considered applied research using a descriptive-analytical method. A bibliographic study of documents and field-survey methods have been used by means of questionnaires and observation tools to collect data. According to Cochran’s formula, the statistical population in the historical neighborhoods of Urmia and the size of the statistical sample is equal to 379 people. After explaining the conceptual model of culture-led regeneration, a questionnaire was developed and qualitatively evaluated by Likert evaluation and the Friedman test. The correlation test was statistically analyzed by the data obtained from the questionnaire.Findings: According to the conceptual model and based on the components derived from the literature on culture-led regeneration, the main components of the research can be divided into three categories: design-oriented, creativity-oriented, and community-oriented. According to the results, the most effective urban regeneration components in the study area are 1- community-oriented, 2- creativity-oriented, and 3- design-oriented, respectively. Also, the effectiveness of urban regeneration indicators in the study area can be prioritized as 1- culture, 2- social, 3- physical, 4- participatory management, 5- visual perception, 6- economic, 7- functional, 8- motivational space, and 9- environmental. Also, the correlation test result shows a significant relationship between the perceptual index and managerial and social indicators, with a coefficient of 0.9, 10. With more and more efforts of officials and citizens to preserve the originality and identity of the area and by transferring the values to future generations, more social activities will be observed. The correlation coefficient between the physical and social indexes is equal to 0.15, indicating a relationship between these two indicators. In other words, by creating open spaces, we will increase socialization and social capital. We also see a significant relationship between cultural and environmental indicators with a confidence of 0.99. Suitable social environments can be created by preserving the environment and producing green spaces or complexes with different trees and urban agriculture. Also, garden museums can be created to envisage these two indicators due to a strong historical context. Also, there was a significant relationship between the social and management indexes. Obviously, by informing the residents about the regulations and creating cultural neighborhood centers and recreational environments, more people will be actively present in the neighborhood, which will increase vitality, safety, and security in the community. The results indicate that the historical context of Urmia has a high potential in terms of the social development of cultural tourism, including cultural resources, events, and historical sites. Still, at the same time, as Chiardi and Hanigan believe, the deterioration of the context, separation from urban centers, and the existence of abandoned and defenseless spaces, are the obstacles to developing this type of tourism that slow down the regeneration process. Conclusion: Providing Three main paths are proposed as strategic goals to achieve the desired regeneration:• Creating identifying, memorable, and green historical complexes (design-oriented).• Creating participatory and competitive spaces based on creative industries (creativity-oriented).• Providing development based on participation, creating interactive spaces representing residents’ culture (community-based).According to the results, historical contexts in Iran, including the historical context of Urmia, offer unique opportunities in terms of physical and architectural attractions and cultural diversity due to the existence of different religions, ethnicities, and traditions. However, the biggest obstacles to using their potential are severe shortages of tourism infrastructure and limited transient visions of urban managers. Therefore, it seems that the framework for tourism development in historical contexts is to offer long-term and step-by-step programs without hasty decisions, provide infrastructure, and change the short-term visions of urban management. Accordingly, four steps are presented to better achieve the desired goals in culture-led regeneration since the common processes are inefficient for tourism development and mobilizing culture-led regeneration programs. A coherent, pragmatic, step-by-step program should be designed and implemented on the basis of the local culture and art and the involvement of residents. At the same time, preserving the memory and identity of the original values of the context should not be overlooked.

The Impact of Urban Natural View Corridors of Hamadan City on the Citizens’ Mental Health

Atieh Asgari; Mostafa Behzadfar; Asadollah Naghdi

Volume 11, Issue 2 , December 2020, , Pages 111-128

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.115413

Abstract

Extended Abstract Objective and Background: Fundamentally, the urban landscape is the level of human and “urban phenomenon” contact; consequently, it is a dynamic concept ... Read More Extended Abstract Objective and Background: Fundamentally, the urban landscape is the level of human and “urban phenomenon” contact; consequently, it is a dynamic concept and a substantial part of citizens’ knowledge, and emotions. Environmental behavior is also formed under its influence. The importance of urban landscape as an intermediary between human and urban phenomenon is that, it has sometimes been mentioned that “urban design” is the management of the urban landscape (objective and subjective landscape).” Meanwhile, the interaction of man and the urban phenomenon has been formed through the urban landscape, and the urban landscape position is very important in the multifaceted human-environmental relationship. View corridors are passages of public spaces to view environmental qualities. View corridors are formed along linear openings and are placed in front of signs or strategic landscapes or excellent urban vital points. View corridors may be used on different scales and for various functional or formal objectives in urban design. Since urban corridors allow an optimal and enjoyable view of the urban landmarks and visual and natural values, they can create a desired mental memory and a coherent mental image of urban public arenas that strengthens citizens’ sense of orientation in the city. Urban thinkers and experts have always considered the interaction between natural and human ecosystems; however, the range of ideas and theoretical foundations of views has been different in dealing with and intervening with them. Regarding the eras and the occurrence of events, the progression of technology and the expansion of cities, different perspectives, theories, and approaches to ecological issues, the coexistence of city and nature, and their interaction have been shaped. Inspection of life quality indicators showed that mental health is one of the main components of life quality. On the other hand, the results show a meaningful relationship between the dimensions of life quality and the concept of mental health. Summarizing the studies and opinions of experts in line with the role of visual and natural urban corridors reveals that view corridors along with natural and urban green infrastructure can provide a healthy environment and deliver physical and mental health for residents. A healthy environment can also bring about socio-economic benefits to the communities in which people live. Methods: Nowadays, many studies have revealed that the destruction of the natural gateway corridors is one of Iran’s current urban development problems. The natural view corridors were destroyed during the unorganized development of Iran cities, including Hamedan city. The literature and the subjects of natural urban corridors are less studied in this city as a way to create mental health in citizens. There seems to be a lack of theoretical and spatial-oriented rules and solutions as a knowledge gap in this regard. It can be argued that in the context of a comprehensive, local, and thematic urban plan policy, the lack of policies for view corridors can be considered a problem. Without a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the city and urban spaces as it is to its citizens, it is difficult to explain why people interact with a particular place and how it benefits them. It is almost impossible to know how to modify and change the desired location to make it a matter of personal preference without a complete understanding of the city. Findings: Consequently, in the current research, based on some sensitive theories obtained from the study and review of theories and investigations, an attempt was made to ask people and the main users of spaces about their preference of specific places in people’s lives in a qualitative research method. Therefore, people’s level of mental health and well-being attributed to or perceived from the place must be identified to understand people’s preferences. Thus, based on the analysis and combination of the results, a conceptual framework was formed to better understand people’s interaction with the environment and the role of urban natural corridors, and the meanings of production and reception in improving citizens’ mental health. Due to the lack of research in this field, it can be said that the findings of this study have strengthened the existing knowledge by establishing a connection between reading the text of urban corridors and receiving their meaning and also interacting with the environment. Regarding this research approach, this issue is also important in the context of our society and the role of social and physical background in the formation of such a mechanism. In this regard, two natural view corridors in Hamedan, which continued towards Alvand, were selected as case studies. In the current research, the role of these two corridors in Hamedan citizens’ mental health was examined. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire and regression analysis were used in SPSS19 software to achieve this goal. The results revealed that environmental criteria, mental landscape perception, objective landscape perception, socio-cultural ecology, and adaptation to daily vital requirements had a significant impact on citizens’ mental health in the form of two urban natural view corridors in Hamedan. Conclusion: In terms of practicality, it can be said that the most important finding of this research for experts of urban management, planning, and urban design, especially managers of Hamedan city is that, in changing and developing natural corridors, they should have a complete understanding of the meanings of place and its effect on the health of individuals and for the interested groups in the natural urban corridors. Given the importance of meaning, urban managers should apply the environmental changes regarding the individuals’ multifaceted interaction with space.

Analyzing and Assessing the Elements of Urban Development Strategy in Small Cities; A Case Study of Galougah, Mazandaran

Ali Hosseini; Mohammad Hossein Mohammadi; Zahra Kabiri; Ramin Zarbi Kenari

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 111-129

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2022.280499.1682

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: A city’s long-term future vision is created through the process of creating an urban development strategy, upon which executive plans ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: A city’s long-term future vision is created through the process of creating an urban development strategy, upon which executive plans are created. The main objective of urban development strategy is to increase economic competitiveness, but it also addresses issues related to the environment, finances, infrastructure, urban design, and poverty alleviation. The aim of this research is to analyze and evaluate various aspects of the development strategy in Galougah city in order to gain a better understanding of the situation there. The study outlines the comprehensive urban plan that was implemented in 2010, as well as a detailed tourism plan for the Galougah Sea that was developed in 2003. However, the city’s master plan has failed to effectively guide urban development and meet the needs of the current population. The planning process does not involve the urban beneficiaries, and they lack knowledge about how decision-makers make decisions regarding urban challenges. Urban challenges, such as services, environmental problems like the urban sewage system, specific problems of inefficient urban fabrics, and physical problems like the transportation network, sidewalks, and road network lighting, have not been properly identified due to a lack of awareness and effective two-way communication between various city managers. To support this research, the implementation of an urban development strategy plan in Galougah city can be beneficial. This is due to the fact that the issues with urban management not only affect the city but also impact other urban stakeholders, such as the economy, sustainable urban employment, and seasonal migrations. By considering these issues, along with the structural limitations of traditional plans and the distinct conditions of Galougah city, an urban development strategy plan could provide a more comprehensive approach to addressing the city’s challenges.Methods: This research is both descriptive and analytical in nature and aims to be practical. The data was collected through surveys and documentary methods. The researcher developed a questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale as the research tool. The statistical population of this study includes experts in urban issues and residents of Galougah city. In order to gather information, documentary, library, and survey methods were employed. Before being distributed to the statistical population, the prepared questionnaire underwent content validity by being tested with individuals who had opinions on this issue, which helped to ensure its dependability. Cochran’s methodology was followed and employed by a simple random sampling technique to distribute 355 questionnaires to heads-of-household, ensuring that they were representative of the city. A random selection technique was used for each questionnaire. A snowball sampling approach was used to identify a group of specialists, and ultimately, 22 experts were included in the study. To analyze the data, descriptive analysis techniques such as frequency percentage, mean, standard deviation, and variance were employed. Inferential tests in SPSS, including the one-sample t-test, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), LSD post hoc test, and Pearson correlation, were also used.Findings: The results of this study demonstrate that Galougah is dealing with issues, all of which have resulted in a decline in the city’s quality of urban life. The mandatory components of the urban development strategy can be strengthened in order to improve the city’s livability. According to the statistical tests conducted, the research findings showed that the relevant indicators for the residents and experts of Galougah City are below average. The dimension of urban livability was found to be weaker than other dimensions among the average indicators for residents, while the dimension of urban competitiveness ranked second. The following scenario involves urban governance and banking. Urban specialists assess these dimensions in the same context. The statistically significant difference observed between the two study groups’ viewpoints is due to the lower average of the analyzed dimensions by the experts, despite their alignment with the residents’ perspectives. This is because experts are more involved in practical and unbiased city issues, such as competition and government, which may have influenced their evaluations.Conclusion: According to the test results, Galougah City is not in an acceptable state for city development strategies, and there is a greater need than ever to prepare and implement the city development plan. Due to the poor and intolerable situation in Galougah city, improving and applying livability approaches appears important. The study of sustainable development goals in cities is based on governance, and proper observance and use of indicators can increase public confidence in institutions of urban management. The assessment and analysis conducted in this research can serve as the framework for assessing various concerns for the mentioned program. In general, the results of this research demonstrate the importance of developing an urban development strategy plan. The research results have the potential to improve our understanding of various challenges faced by citizens and urban management. These findings can be used by managers, planners, and policymakers to develop a city development strategy plan that addresses the city’s current situation and helps to solve its problems in a logical manner.

Comparative Evaluation of Social Capital Elements in Urban Public Housing (Case Study: Braim and Bawarda Residential Areas in Abadan(

Morteza Zameni; Sina Razzaghi Asl; Elham Pour Mahabadian

Volume 11, Issue 1 , August 2020, , Pages 115-130

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.143850.1057

Abstract

Extended Abstract The advent of the Industrial Revolution, the rising standard of living, the invention of automobile, and advanced transportation technology, have led the cities to ... Read More Extended Abstract The advent of the Industrial Revolution, the rising standard of living, the invention of automobile, and advanced transportation technology, have led the cities to overgrow in the post-world war era, causing environmental problems, pollution, traffic, poverty, etc. Hence, to fairly distribute urban services and provide others with housing units, the construction of public complexes and residential settlements for the labor force was taken into account, especially for those migrating from other places to industrial cities seeking for a job. Regarding the time and budget constraints, these programs provide a large number of low-cost housing units as shelters for millions of households, often leading to low-quality, unstable, and even unhealthy buildings. In some cities such as Abadan, constructing residential centers and new communities that meet the needs of immigrant workers was quite essential due to the establishment of the refinery which functioned as an industrial hub attracting the population to the heart of the city and changing people's lifestyle. These residential areas were designed to accommodate the workforce according to their nationalities, ethnic characteristics and occupational social class. They were devised to provide an ideal place for people to spend their leisure time and simultaneously enjoy educational, medical, sports, and other facilities. Social sustainability is an aspect of sustainability, which is unachievable if the elements of social capital are ignored. Therefore, it is essential to recognize and compare the existing examples to determine whether the elements of social capital have been realized. This article seeks to make a comparative evaluation of the elements of social capital in Braim and Bawarda residential areas in Ababan. In addition, a comparative study will be performed on the elements of social capital in these two thriving neighborhoods to further scrutinize the barriers of achieving social sustainability through the realization of social capital. This research is aimed at making the decision-makers aware of the feedback resulted from constructing new residential settlements. Carrying out a comparative study on the realization of the elements of social capital in the two residential neighborhoods of Braim and Bawarda in Abadan, this paper tries to answer the following question: "What are the similarities and differences of Braim and Bawarda neighborhoods in Abadan in terms of realized social capital elements?" This research is a descriptive study and in terms of field studies, it uses a "survey method" based on observations and questionnaires as data collection tools. The data in this research is analyzed in the form of an applied study. The desired physical structure in a public residential settlement seems to be impotent for realizing social sustainability goals regardless of the social stratification and the creation of participatory networks. Social capital is considered as a social capacity that improves and promotes interpersonal interactions in a society and its institutions. In addition to material resources, each social network depends on factors such as trust, participation, and social cohesion, which might hinder social development and sustainability if the elements of social capital are not realized. The findings of this study indicate that only the variable of "sense of social belonging" in Braim neighborhood is considered desirable, while other variables of social capital are not considered desirable. Moreover, the variables of "sense of social belonging" and "institutional trust" are regarded as desirable in Bawarda neighborhood, while other variables of social capital are regarded as undesirable. Adopting the neighborhood unit approach and dividing each neighborhood into manageable and law-abiding cores will allow for more effective use of urban services. Since both regions have similar physical structures, the "sense of social belonging" is desirable in both neighborhoods. The research findings also acknowledge that Bawarda neighborhood is better off than Braim area in terms of three variables, "interpersonal trust," "institutional trust," and "sense of social belonging," with no significant difference between variables in the two neighborhoods. Since Bawarda residents are lower-ranking employees with different lifestyles, beliefs, and family experiences than Braim residents, the elements of interpersonal trust, institutional trust, and sense of social belonging are more desirable than that of Braim. Multiple researches have been conducted on social capital so far. Research on the assessment of social capital in cities and neighborhoods often confirms the existence of physical defects in the design of residential settlements and the shortage of public services, green space, and lack of public gathering centers. No comparative evaluation has been carried out on the elements of social capital in two neighborhoods with successful physical characteristics. Moreover, wrong housing allocation policies have failed to be identified as one of the factors influencing active presence of residents and reduced civic participation. This research can be expanded to examine the extent to which the separation of social stratification in residential settlements is effective in realizing the elements of social capital.

The Effect of Resident's Sense of Belonging to the Place On the Neighboring Facades of Isfahan Maadis

Marjan Amjad; Farhang Mozaffar; Shirin Toghyani; Vahid Ghasemi

Volume 12, Issue 2 , December 2021, , Pages 119-136

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.270077.1631

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Maadi's are the distinguishing characteristic of Isfahan city in comparison with other cities of Iran. Their calm and inviting side where ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Maadi's are the distinguishing characteristic of Isfahan city in comparison with other cities of Iran. Their calm and inviting side where humans and nature get along together can be combined with architectural elements, affecting the urban feature and landscape of urban neighborhoods. The facade of residential buildings adjacent to the Maadis greatly enjoys the sense of belonging to the existing space. It is one of the most influential factors in creating a connection between residential spaces and existing nature. The vital factor in this research is the response to the dual relationship between man and nature. Also, we focused on the impact of this relationship on the landscape and residential building envelopes. It is critical to meet residents' needs and expectations and provide a more favorable environment for users.Methods: This research has the characteristics of quantitative and qualitative studies. The field research and implementation path are a type of consecutive exploratory combined research with a pragmatism paradigm in terms of data collection. In the first stage, the data of the qualitative study was collected in the field by performing interviews. In this stage of the qualitative data collection, a set of activities was performed, such as bibliographic study, observation, photographs, and interviews with experts. Finally, the thematic analysis method was used to classify the patterns of meaning from the data set. In the second stage, the quantitative study, a survey was done based on the researcher-made questionnaires, the answers, and it was used to apply the appropriate tools. The questionnaires were evaluated on a five-point Likert scale and randomly distributed among neighboring residents of Maadis. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed by SPSS and AMOS software. Descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed in SPSS software. The Cronbach's alpha was used to evaluate the reliability of the questionnaires, and the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to evaluate the normality of data distribution. In order to measure and analyze the effectiveness path of the Maadis component and the sense of belonging to the facade component, a set of variables related to each of them was entered into AMOS software. For confirmatory factor analysis of the mentioned component variables, structural equation modeling was used in AMOS software. Finally, both qualitative and quantitative analyses were interpreted at once.Findings: The path coefficients of the central hypothesis, regression coefficients, and the number of partial indicators related to the hypothesis showed an effective relationship between the components, but they did not have the same value. The items of the Maadi's component were all identified with a strong and positive effect. The study of the components of the sense of belonging showed that emotional belonging had a substantial and positive effect on all items. In addition, the functional and conceptual components, with substantial and positive effects on one item, indicated a significant relationship between the components of Maadis and the sense of belonging with the components of the facade.Conclusion: The results have shown that the sense of belonging and Maadis existence significantly affect facades. From the resident's perspective, the sense of belonging has the most significant effect on the facade, form, and size, then the facade components and the materials. So that in the component of form and size, elements such as the use of curved lines and volumes that are reminiscent of the movement and twisting of water in Maadis were considered significant. The human scale in the facade by using different divisions, creating complete and empty spaces by balcony design, the porch and retreat in floors, unity, and harmony between adjacent facades, coordination in the forms used in the facade as well as avoiding uniformity and the height of more than three floors, respectively, had the most significant value and impact from the residents' point of view. From the resident's perspective, the sense of belonging has the most significant effect on the facade, form, and size, then the facade components and the materials. The Maadis components, with their evocativeness, readability, tranquility and climatic comfort, and uniqueness, respectively, increased the impact of existing nature on the facade. Therefore, paying attention to the green infrastructure of Isfahan Maadis and attracting the participation of residents, under the influence of their sense of belonging, promotes the physical characteristics of the facades of the residential buildings adjacent to the Maadis.

Explaining the key concepts of the “Islamic city” in “Madinat Alfadilah” (Virtuous city) theory of Farabi

Marzieh Al Zahra Nassirpour; Mohammad Naghizadeh; Zahra Sadat Saeede Zarabadi

Volume 13, Issue 1 , May 2022, , Pages 125-141

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2022.256872.1579

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The present study is based upon the theory of “madinat alfadilah” (virtuous city) to help develop the theoretical foundations ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The present study is based upon the theory of “madinat alfadilah” (virtuous city) to help develop the theoretical foundations related to the concept of the “Islamic city”. This theory is one of the complete theories about the characteristics of the ideal city that “Farabi” has been able to systematize into a “scientific treatise”. “Farabi” is a wise scholar among Muslim thinkers whose theories can still be the solution to today’s problems, due to his scientific comprehensiveness, intellectual order, and independence of thought from the conditions of his time. The freshness of his thought is due to his indebtedness to Islamic sciences and knowledge. In this study, the main research questions are:1. What are the key concepts of Farabi’s “madinat alfadilah” theory?2. How will these concepts play a role in explaining the theoretical foundations and defining the concept of “Islamic city”?There are two approaches in the studies about “urbanization” and “civilization” in Farabi’s view: The first can be considered as “extracting individual concepts from Farabi’s works”, which includes studies that introduce single useful concepts for today’s society according to Farabi’s theories. The second can be called “extracting common concepts from the comparative study of Farabi’s works and other thinkers”, which includes studies that have compared his views with other thinkers who have provided theories in the field of society and the ideal city. The present study fills the gap between these two approaches. It is not merely looking at single concepts, nor is it merely comparing Farabi’s works with other thinkers, based on the view that Farabi’s comprehensive theory can be a comprehensive and all-encompassing basis to define the “concept of the Islamic city”.Methods: This research is a descriptive-analytical study in terms of attitude and addressing the research issue. Bibliographic study tools (with emphasis on referring to primary sources) have been used to review and refine the texts and content of the materials. The research results have been obtained using the qualitative analysis method. According to the research process (based on the research canvas model (Latham 2016)), the first step was to state the problem, explain the goals, and formulate the research questions. The next stage determined the research position by reviewing previous research. Eventually, the theoretical literature was reviewed using an initial theoretical framework. In the analysis and findings section, using the approach of logical analysis, the concepts extracted from Farabi’s idea were presented in three sectors. Also, these concepts were briefly explained, and their relationship with the “concept of the Islamic city” was stated. Finally, secondary concepts were obtained from the basic concepts to form the “theoretical foundation” of the “Islamic city” concept. The relations between all the mentioned concepts with the idea of the utopia were depicted in a diagram. The secondary concepts were extracted by logical analysis and rational inference.Findings: The theory of the “madinat alfadilah”, which is a solid basis for the concept of “Islamic city”, emerges in Hakim Farabi’s thought from a complete and, at the same time, complex process. He deduces this process from the general system of the created world. The starting point of this process is the “monotheism” and greatness of God Almighty. Explaining the hierarchy of beings, from the world of “Meaning” to the world of “Matter”, leads to the turning point of “Man”. The human soul has certain components. Some concepts such as “Wisdom, Will, and Authority” are defined for human beings. Human “bliss” is another turning point in the process. Man needs a “social life” to achieve bliss. Thereby, the concept of the “madinat alfadilah” is born as the background for the formation of social life. After reviewing the sources and analyzing the results, the key concepts of Farabi’s theory include: “bliss”, “comprehensiveness”, “anthropocentric”, “justice”, “global model”, “politics”, “social system”, “management” and “education”. These concepts were systematized in three sectors: “transcendent ideal, path and operational tools”, and their relationships were analyzed.Conclusion: Based on the logical analysis of the above concepts in order to find their connection with the urban science literature through rational inference, the concepts of “purpose, approach, mechanism, form, context, organization and content” can be explained according to the “Islamic city” concept. The concepts defining the Islamic city can be organized as follows:The transcendent ideal• The “purpose” of the Islamic city is human excellence and his “bliss”.path•The “mechanism” for achieving this goal is “politics”.•The “form” of the Islamic city is to have a defined and specific “social system”.•The “basis” and context of the formation and development of the Islamic city is “a global model”.•The general method or “approach” of the Islamic city is “comprehensiveness, anthropocentric and justice”.Operational tools•The “organization” of the Islamic city can be explained by defining the concept of “management”.•The limits of “education” will determine the “content” of this template.The process of emergence of the concept of “madinat alfadilah”, and the formation process of the theoretical basis of the “Islamic city” concept using key concepts of the theory are shown in a diagram.

An Investigation on Physical Quality of Openings in Amir Arsan Historical Complex of Tabriz Bazar from an Aesthetic Point of View

Rahmat Mohammadzadeh; Elham Kazemi; Leila Mohebbi

Volume 11, Issue 2 , December 2020, , Pages 129-152

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.169105.1169

Abstract

Extended Abstract Objective and Background: The philosophy of openings, including doors and windows, and their formation process is very sophisticated. These elements are considered ... Read More Extended Abstract Objective and Background: The philosophy of openings, including doors and windows, and their formation process is very sophisticated. These elements are considered important aspects of the history and aesthetic values of the buildings. The architecture of these areas is of remarkable interest in sentimentality, structure, geometry, design principles, scale, decoration, consistency, etc. However, further investigations are required to recognize these valuable elements for future research and the progress of the studies and efforts. In recent years, the salesmen admit that the opening areas in Amir Arsan complex have been changed tremendously. In addition, the performance of these areas has also been transformed. The high-quality wood materials used to reconstruct opening areas have been recently replaced with metal frames. There, the openings do not seem compatible with the whole environment anymore. In some cases, the openings have been projected from the building, blocking the passages and deteriorating the building legibility. Moreover, the new decorations in the openings are not related to Bazar’s architecture, and the initial architectural precise details of Bazar have been lost. Most of the opening inscriptions that were added to the stores in the form of Azari Kalil vaults have been destroyed now, and only a few have remained. The aforementioned variations indicate the loss of originality in these valuable places. The continuation of this miss-performance may cause severe damages and destroy the identity of these areas. Methods: The present study was performed via field research, documentology of the existing literature, and the use of questionnaires analyzed on a Likert scale. This study is comprised of two questionnaires that are based on the researcher’s investigations. An evaluated statistical society has been chosen randomly. The statistical population in the first questionnaire is composed of 30 passersby and 30 salesmen. The error coefficient was measured as 5% using the Cochran equation. The second questionnaire was distributed among 20 experts. In the first questionnaire, the quality of openings has been investigated based on three parameters, including performance, appearance, and identity. The obtained data were further analyzed with SPSS software, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was used to measure the normal distribution of the scores for the studied parameters. In order to compare the three aforementioned parameters for two sub-groups, including the passersby and the salesmen, a one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) was utilized. The second questionnaire was based on location and compared the quality factors in two groups of design principles and architectural principles in seven locations. Findings: A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized in the first questionnaire to help the two groups of salesmen and passersby evaluate the parameter of “performance” and its sub-factors. According to the results, the salesmen liked the parameter of “performance” (in the design of openings) more than the passersby; their average score values were 33.77 and 28.48, respectively. In the “energy” sub-factor, the passersby were more in agreement (9.84 average) than the salesmen (9.53). The sub-factors of “accessibility” and “strength” were scored 12.09 and 10.92 by the salesmen, which was more than the average score scored by the passersby (8.40 and 10.59). The obtained results in the “form” parameter suggest average value scores of 30.16 and 28.79 for the salesmen and passersby. In the case of sub-factors related to “entrance openings” and “main space”, the salesmen scored higher (9.78 and 12.57) than the passersby (8.34 and 11.50). Eventually, in the case of the third parameter, “the connection of the two openings entrances and main space”, the passersby admired the openings in these spaces more than salesmen, and their average scores were 8.78 and 7.76. The parameter of “identity” was the last investigated one, which was comprised of two “history” and “ecology” sub-factors. In the case of these two sub-factors, passersby scored 27, 18.37, and 8.88, which were more than the values scored by salesmen (25, 16.25, and 8.53). In the second questionnaire, concerning the quality of openings from the experts’ viewpoints, the obtained scores in the seven investigated locations (ranged from 19 to 109) indicate three weak (19-49), medium (50-79), and good (80-109) scales. Overall, the quality of openings in Amir Yard, the north Amir Timcheh, and south Amir Timcheh, Amir Rasteh (alley), east Dalan (corridor), west Dalan, and southeast Dalan was scored 55, 57, 56, 51, 54, 53, and 45, respectively. These scores were finally evaluated as weak. Conclusion: The results reveal that there are 12 kinds of openings with inscriptions and 7 kinds of openings with coloring patterns in this Arsan. The average numeric values of the opening quality are scored 65 and 71 by salesmen and passersby from a total score of 115; they are indicated as low values. The quality of openings scored from 31 to 151 in three different rates (poor: 31-71, medium: 72-111, and good: 112-151). The quality of openings was scored in three rated from 19 to 109 according to expert’s opinion (poor: 19-49, medium: 50-79, and good: 80-109). As a result, the quality of openings in Amir yard, north Timcheh, south Timcheh, Amir Rasteh (alley), east Dalan (corridor), west Dalan, and southeast Dalan was scored 55, 57, 56, 51, 54, 53, and 45 respectively, which can be evaluated as medium scores. The quality of designing principles for openings in north Timcheh had the highest score, and the other places such as east Dalan, south Timcheh, Amir yard, west and east Dalans were rated differently. The quality of architectural principles had the highest score in south Timcheh, and the lower scores were related to the Yard, north Timcheh, east and west Dalan, Amir Rasteh, and southeast Dalan, respectively. The weakness areas of the openings are related to the lack of identity in the openings, ignoring the effect of color in the reconstruction of openings, narrow openings in Amir yard, the inconsistency of the yard openings due to different opening heights (the height of window surface to yard surface), visual distortions, and various changes in southeast Dalan. Consequently, paying attention to the parameters with low scores and proposing different solutions for improving the opening quality is necessary. It is also essential to enhance the existing potentials such as traditional and historical structural forms that are compatible with the environmental aspects.

A Comparative Study for the Layout of Wet Areas in Flexible Residential Buildings

Aida Rasouli Sani Abadi; Maryam Farhady; Ali Ghaffari

Volume 11, Issue 1 , August 2020, , Pages 131-144

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.138130.1021

Abstract

Extended Abstract Introduction: Change is an undeniable part of life. Change is always needed in people’s lives, and this has become more essential in this era due to the complexity ... Read More Extended Abstract Introduction: Change is an undeniable part of life. Change is always needed in people’s lives, and this has become more essential in this era due to the complexity and diversity of lifestyles. Apart from rapid social, economic, and technological advances, the need to increase adaptability and flexibility has become one of the most important issues in residential design. Considering the ecological factors, this issue is so important that, according to Schneider and Till, sustainable development can be achieved through a flexible design (Schneider & Till, 2007: 50). Given the characteristics of the contemporary era and the successive changes to the lifestyle in Iran, it seems that flexibility must be one of the priorities for residential building designers. Factors involved in the design of flexible housing are numerous and intertwined, and their appropriate consideration can lead to a proper design. These factors include structures, the layout of the wet areas, access space, and appropriate space dimensions (Albostan, 2009: 28-34, Friedman, 2004: 92). According to the above issues, wet areas are chosen as the main focus of this study in order to better understand the formation of flexible residential buildings (considering the location of wet areas) and also to take steps to facilitate the design process for residential building designers. In this regard, this study aims to identify the most common layouts of wet areas in flexible residential buildings and makes a comparative study based on different approaches to flexibility. Research method: The present study is an applied, descriptive, and analytical research. Obviously, a typology for wet area must be provided after understanding the typology of flexible residential buildings. Thereby, an appropriate process can be followed in the layout of the wet areas based on the designer’s approach to the plan flexibility. Using a library research method, this paper scrutinizes and identifies the common approaches to flexible residential building. Regarding the importance of flexible design in residential complexes, when several adjacent units are designed, two approaches can be adopted in two levels of intra-unit and inter-unit. At the intra-unit level, the layout of the wet areas within a residential unit as well as the relationship between the wet area and the adjacent spaces are studied. At the inter-unit level, the location of the wet area in the layout of several adjacent residential units are studied. Flexible residential plans are then collected by library research and, based on the flexibility approaches, the location of the wet areas in the plan are studied. After collection, description, and qualitative study of residential plans, the most widely used wet area layout of residential plans are specified and the layout of the wet areas in flexible residential buildings are identified in the form of three main patterns. Next, these three patterns and their subsets were analyzed more accurately by selecting about forty plans. The criteria for choosing the plans were the success of the projects, the variety in the plan form, and access to high-quality visual documents of the project. Also, for consistency reasons, exceptional patterns that had been rarely used were not included in this study. In the last step, unlike the previous steps, a comparative study was conducted. It is worth mentioning that in this research, technological issues were avoided and more attention was paid to architectural design, i.e. spatial organization. Conclusion: Consequently, it can be concluded that one of the most important features of all flexible residential projects is merging of wet areas. This can occur in various ways mentioned in the article. Regardless of the types of approach to flexibility, it seems that the whole plan can be divided to separate areas or free areas. In both cases, the layout of the wet areas plays an essential role in configuration of the design in the early stages. Thus, it can be concluded that in most layouts, the plan should be divided into two separate or free parts. Eventually, the design process can be made much easier by recognizing and selecting common patterns to devise wet areas in flexible plans. One of the advantages of dividing the plan into free spaces is that the wet areas are placed in the peripheral spaces and other spaces are therefore completely free of many changes in the plan. In this way, the dry spaces can be easily placed in different places without overlapping wet areas. In contrast, when the dry and wet areas are separated, the wet areas reduce the number of hypothetical alternatives of spatial layout and simplify the design while providing a relative control of space.

Understanding the Qazibala Farmstead Based on the Six Criteria of Farmsteads Owned by Lords

Hosein Raie

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 131-144

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2022.271946.1634

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: In recent years, extensive studies have identified historic residential farmsteads in the central plateau of Iran. The cultural geography ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: In recent years, extensive studies have identified historic residential farmsteads in the central plateau of Iran. The cultural geography of cities such as Qom is an example of Iranian architecture. Farmsteads like Sezavar, Alborz, Kahak, and Cheshmeh Ali, as well as Qazibala farmstead, were formed at some point in history, particularly during the Qajar era, and their remnants can still be seen in and around Qom. The study focuses on communities’ lack of knowledge on recognizing historic farmsteads. Regardless of their identity, many lord-owned farmsteads are being improperly reconstructed or registered on the National Monuments List under different names and titles. The Qazibala farmstead in Qom has also faced these problems. This study focuses on two primary questions; 1. Which criteria for identifying the lordly farmsteads of Iran corresponds to the Qazibala Collection? 2. How does identifying the Qazibala as a lordly farmstead help protect it? The research aimed to introduce the Qazibala farmstead as a lord-owned farmstead in Iran. To this end, the interpretive approach and historical interpretive strategy are easily used with document research and field studies. The findings revealed that six criteria for identifying lord-owned farmsteads in Iran had been identified. So, the Qazibala farmstead is recognized as Lord-owned Farmstead following criteria such as the establishment of physical elements, historical documentation, historical continuity, lordly ownership, fixed population, and stable status. Therefore, identifying this complex as a Lord-owned farmstead can affect its introduction, preservation, and revitalization and prevent improper physical and functional interference from stakeholders.Methods: The research aims to introduce the Qazibala farmstead as a lord-owned farmstead in Iran. To this end, the interpretive approach and historical interpretive strategy were used with bibliographic research and field studies. To give the researcher complete access to the current condition of the farmstead, the farm’s territory and its components, including the mansion, reservoir, tower and barrow, garden, and Qanats, were initially mapped, photographed, and documented. Following that, historical and legal documents, like Naser al-Din Shah’s travelogue, genealogy, deeds, and pictures of the Harvard University Document Center were studied, and interviews with Mohammad Vafaei and Afshin Bakhtiar were conducted to complete the research. The overlapping of the preceding information produced findings that were interpreted and analyzed to meet the six criteria of lord-owned farmsteads in Iran’s central climate.Findings: During the Qajar period, the Qazibala farm was managed using the feudal lord system. This system was maintained in the same order and under the ownership of lords such as Haj Hossein Khan Khalaj, Haj Isaq Khan, and Sardar Motazed until the constitutional period and the first period of the National Assembly. Many farmsteads, particularly the Qazibala farmstead, lost their original form and function during the second Pahlavi period, as the Iranian Land Reform began, and their owners dispersed and migrated. Lotf Ali Khan, the previous owner, entrusted the farmstead to Nazanin Vafai after the Islamic Revolution. The earthquake of 1980 also destroyed a portion of the farms’ tower, barrow, and fence. The social and political changes allowed farm workers and serfs to cross the farm’s fence into the fields, forming the Qazibala village. According to the research findings, the Qazibala farm meets all six criteria. The Qazibala farmstead meets the first criterion, which is the establishment of physical elements. Within this field were features like agricultural land, Qanats, mosques, manors, towers, and barrows, which are still standing or currently experiencing a revival. This farmstead meets the second criterion because it is credible according to two historical travelogues by two venerable and seasoned authors, along with numerous antiquated images and records that support the farm’s credentials. Based on the third criterion, along with the existence of architectural patterns in the physical components, and the mentioned documents, this farmstead dates back to the historical eras of the Qajar and Mohammad Shah. According to the studies conducted in the fourth criterion, the owners of the farm from the Qajar period until it was converted into a village were Mohammad Hossein Khan, Haj Eshaq Khan, Motazed Nezam, Zinat al-Moluk, and Lotf Ali Khan; thus, this farmstead has been privately owned by their lords. Moreover, the fifth criterion reveals that, according to the mentioned documents, this farmstead had a fixed and floating population from the start. Their number increased from 266 to 85 people between 1346 and 1390. These changes and demographic sequence have demonstrated the farm’s viability over time. The Qazibala farmstead is also valid in the sixth criterion. Pictures 10–13 depict the farmstead’s evolution from the beginning to the present, demonstrating its stability despite changes in shape and substance.Conclusion: Previous research demonstrates that the Qazibala complex satisfies the six requirements for identifying lord-owned farmsteads and is recognized as one. This farm was overlooked during the course of social, economic, and political changes and developments. Still, in the form of a “cohesive whole” and with the presence of all possessions and associated elements, it can now be referred to as “Qazibala Lord-owned Farmstead” and be registered, according to documents and archives in the list of national monuments of Iran. Registration based on accurate information can help introduce and preserve this site. By registering this complex as a lord-owned farmstead, all its associated elements will be physically and functionally linked. None of these components can be subjected to inappropriate physical intervention on their own, but their role in the farmstead, along with other related elements such as reservoirs, mills, Qanats, and waterways, should be understood before taking appropriate action. Moreover, by stating that this site is a residential farmstead owned by a lord, it can be classified as an “Important Agricultural Heritage” and registered in the GIAHS system. The GIAHS secretariat in Iran can prepare the global registration file with five criteria based on executive instructions. With this action, many related data in the architectural, agricultural, economic, social, political, cultural, legal, and judicial fields hidden in the Qazibala farmstead and other farms will be introduced and then placed on the path of dynamic preservation based on time and place requirements.

Investigation on Attaining Healthy Housing by Increasing Sense of Coherence in Historical Context with Emphasize on Salutogenic Approach: Sang-e-Siyah Community, Shiraz, Iran

Mohadeseh Alsadat Hamidi; Mehdi Khakzand; Mohsen Faizi

Volume 12, Issue 2 , December 2021, , Pages 137-151

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.282418.1689

Abstract

Extended AbstractObjective and Background: Nowadays, health promotion in humans is not limited to medicine and psychology; therefore, a strong need for an effective interdisciplinary ... Read More Extended AbstractObjective and Background: Nowadays, health promotion in humans is not limited to medicine and psychology; therefore, a strong need for an effective interdisciplinary movement is felt to increase individuals' health as much as possible. Several studies have concluded that the quality of the built environment is an important indicator of health and quality of life in modern societies. Health paradigm fans believe fundamental changes in individual and social behaviors are required to improve health, meaning that there must be a movement in the "social body" for the "biological and physical body" if an effective response is to be achieved. Housing and neighborhoods play an important role in human life as the most basic man-made environments. These environments have a significant impact on human mental and physical health. The architects and urban planners of today must develop designs aimed at improving human health. Previous studies have shown that the salutogenic approach can promote human health. One of the basic sub-branches of this approach that forms the general basis of this research is the sense of coherence (SOC), which Antonovsky defines as the dynamic orientation for the world. This study aims to achieve a design solution that will increase the sense of coherence of people living in the historical fabric of Shiraz. As a result, the Sang-e Siah neighborhood in Shiraz city has been used as a case study. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate the sense of coherence in the Sang-e Siah neighborhood in Shiraz, which can be improved by increasing this component in humans. Hence, the research question is "What effects does the built neighborhood in Sang-e Siah have on citizens' sense of coherence?" Additionally, "what can be done to enhance people's sense of coherence through efficient design?" Answering this question in various neighborhoods can lead to effective strategies in maintaining and promoting the health of the residents in the Sang-e Siah neighborhood of Shiraz as well as the development of the neighborhood based on the salutogenic approach.Methods: This study is based on mixed methods. Therefore, the bibliographic and documentary collections are first used to determine the progressive contents. Next, the World Health Organization Quality of Life and Antonovsky's sense of coherence surveys were used to collect data. The survey data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods with SPSS-24 software and a structural model based on SMART-PLS-2 software to test the research hypothesis. This research significantly identified and examined the main factors affecting the individuals' quality of life (QoL) and the residents' sense of coherence (SoC) in the Sang-e Siah neighborhood.Findings: As a result of the factors obtained from both the tables related to the Sang-e Siah neighborhood and the quality of life survey, we find a more comprehensive correlation between the built environment and the sense of coherence. The variables in the sense of coherence survey and in the WHO Quality of Life survey have been expressed as keywords. The sense of coherence also acts as a dependent variable compared to the quality of life (an independent variable). Hence, the hidden variables related to the quality of life with the highest correlation coefficient should be taken into account since changes in each sector will impact the sense of coherence, meaning the SoC will improve as the quality of life improves.Conclusion: According to the main purposes of the study, the salutogenic approach is intended to promote a sense of coherence and achieve a healthy home. In the neighborhood of Sang-e Siah, a significant factor with a correlation coefficient of (0.978) shows the highest correlation with the variable of the sense of coherence. Also, according to Alan Dilani's translation of the components of sense of coherence, every significant factor consists of sub-categories such as social support, music, art, culture, increased activity, increased individual and social independence, the presence of pets, view, comfort and convenience, and positive distraction. As a result, such keywords can be used in designing the historical fabric of Shiraz. Therefore, designing according to these strategies can significantly improve people's physical and mental health in these environments.

Analysis of the impact of contemporary economic activities on Tabriz Grand Bazaar spatial organization

Rahmat Mohammadzadeh; Nahideh Rezaei

Volume 13, Issue 1 , May 2022, , Pages 143-163

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.230419.1411

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Due to modernization, traditional bazaars in Iran have undergone many changes following the pace of changes and developments in contemporary ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: Due to modernization, traditional bazaars in Iran have undergone many changes following the pace of changes and developments in contemporary economic activities. This issue has led to a change in the spatial organization of bazaars, which in most cases, has been in line with the spatial organization heterogeneity and inconsistency. This research hypothesizes that contemporary economic activities have had a tremendous impact on the spatial organization of Tabriz Grand Bazaar. This research aims to investigate the relationship between contemporary economic activities and the spatial organization of this bazaar.Methods: This research is based on the bibliographic study of documents and direct observations. It is conducted by the retroductive research strategy and qualitative approaches to discover the impact of contemporary economic activities on the spatial organization in Tabriz Grand Bazaar and to control some of its economic, social, and physical consequences.Findings: Although Iran has had no inherent economic and social changes since the late Qajar period, the factories and machine products have replaced traditional and local goods and services. The investors owned the majority of possessions and production tools. Expanding the deals in this system has led the small outputs not to be accountable. And as a result, this caused the small craft productions to transform into factory productions. Therefore, this period is the era in which the products are constantly altered. In the following, some of the contemporary economic factors are mentioned. Some examples include the expansion of markets and free contests, increase in the manufacturing and factory productions, enhancement of the social imbalance with high differences, increase in ownership of possessions and manufacturing tools by investors, and incentive for high-interest rates (domination of production in sales), the consumers’ supremacy, the focus of workforce, paying particular attention to creating the value-added, the expansion of transportations and commodity exchanges and also the domination of capitalism. The studies represent that from the late Qajar period, Tabriz bazaar witnessed the entry and presence of mass production and imported goods. Modern urban planning emerged in Tabriz bazaar by the change in the type and method of new economic activities and physical growth due to population growth and migration. Therefore, the spatial organization of the bazaar could not respond to this volume of goods and services. This production and supply volume split the bazaar space and debilitated the trade with the region and city. The old structure of the bazaar also underwent serious changes due to new needs, which led to the abandonment of some spaces and the addition of heterogeneous spaces. In some cases, this issue led to the disappearance of the hierarchy and patterns of activity and physicality in the bazaar and led to the creation of inconsistent spaces. The research reveals that spatial organization characteristics, such as centrality, patterns and index elements, structure, and hierarchy of the grand bazaar have been influenced by contemporary economic activities in different ways. The establishment of new commercial places in the Bazzar neighborhood, especially the commercial complexes and specialized markets built in the post-revolution period, attracted lots of people. As a result, the function of the bazaar as the sales center changed. The hierarchical organization of the bazaar has also changed due to adherence to the new road networks and innovations, yet it maintained its physical entirety.Conclusion: The results reveal that providing centrality, like economic activities in bazaar neighborhoods, and reawakening the prosperous and currency-flow-boosting jobs with a focus on increasing the output of exportable products such as shoes and carpets, can improve the physical and technical infrastructures. In addition, systematic renovation and restoration, holding production and supply exhibitions to induce social gatherings of different genders and ages nearby the relevant Rasteh (series of shops), would be beneficial for strengthening the place of the bazaar in the city. In terms of patterns and index elements, the specific construction and protective criteria for the bazaar spaces and environment are recommended to prevent physical depreciation and disappearance of existing patterns in the bazaar. Using the aggregation patterns in under-construction units, strengthening the bazaar axes, and highlighting the index elements can be reasonable approaches. In terms of physical structures, paying attention to the activities which prevent the monuments in the bazaar context to demolish, benefiting from their physical and functional values, attracting private investments, and providing enough parking spaces can be reasonable aims to be achieved. Human resources and project management are important in the subject of activity in organizing technology and innovations. Eventually, in the case of hierarchy, considering the structure and hierarchy of the neighborhood and inside flows of the bazaar, taking into account the organization of arrangements and sequences in the placement of spaces, activities, views, and movements would be the appropriate approach in upgrading and maintaining the hierarchy of the bazaar. Therefore, in addition to a comprehensive knowledge of the bazaar and spatial communication with the surrounding environment, technology and innovation management, human resource management, and finally, project management or common urban planning projects such as reviving the historical context can be a good strategy to maintain and improve the spatial organization of bazaar.

Recognition and Feasibility Study of Implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Architectural Education in Iran

Marjan Latifi Oskouie; Seyed Amir Saeid Mahmoodi; Elham Nazemi

Volume 11, Issue 1 , August 2020, , Pages 145-166

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.222331.1368

Abstract

Extended Abstract The Building Information Modeling (BIM) system is one of the most important breakthroughs in the construction industry of the current era, and has the potential to ... Read More Extended Abstract The Building Information Modeling (BIM) system is one of the most important breakthroughs in the construction industry of the current era, and has the potential to transform traditional architectural education into a more productive model. The construction industry is considered to be one of the largest industries in the world, playing a major role in the development of countries around the globe. In fact, the impact of this industry is such that its recession can cause a recession in the whole economy of any country, while its prosperity can pave the way for prosperity of the whole economy of the country. Today, with the development of science and technology, the construction industry is facing new avenues, bringing about major changes therein, one of which is the BIM system. Consequently, with the development of technology in this field, higher education, which always seeks to keep pace with the industry, has confronted the challenge of accepting modern technologies and thus shapes more effective educational strategies. Although Building Information Modeling and its training courses are among the most important and sought-after subjects in recent research literature in the world by leading countries, this new modeling, and especially its training, has been widely neglected in Iran. The purpose of this study is to propose a conceptual framework for getting familiarized with the exploitation of building information modeling system in teaching Iranian architecture. In terms of purpose, this study is an applied research which employs a mixed approach including secondary case study, survey and focus group. The selection of the statistical population was undertaken purposefully, as each component of this statistical population was selected based on its relative knowledge of the building information modeling system and the sample is consisted of 200 architectural graduates. The measurement error was set at 0.05 and the level of reliability was 95%. The questionnaires were distributed online and analyzed using SPSS. The validity of the questionnaires was assessed and the reliability of the variables was calculated and confirmed by Cronbach's alpha test with a coefficient of 0.876. First, the theoretical framework of the research was devised using previous case studies and then the opinions of participants were obtained and analyzed. Finally, the final framework was validated by a focal group of professors and experts. According to the results of the Chi-Square test, the level and objectives of the course were evaluated to be such that the BIM system could be used at different educational levels and along with other training classes. Friedman test and one-sample t-tests and were also used to select the content and measure importance of the courses, in which the highest significance of the application of building information modeling was witnessed in project management, sustainability issues and architectural Studio, while the lowest significance of its application was obtained in the field of concepts and mental imagination. Based on the findings, three areas of software and modeling, concepts and theory, and information management recognized as effective in the educational framework of BIM, and were thus recommended for consideration in the curriculum of the undergraduate course in architecture. The final educational model is proposed in combination at different educational levels. As such, the proposed framework for teaching building information modeling system is divided into three courses of elementary, intermediate and advanced, in which the students first learn the individual skills in modeling and analysis in the bachelor's program of architecture, then they learn the concepts and principles of building information modeling in the master's program course. They can finally take part in advanced training courses related to the building industry and profession based on teaching teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration and integration in real projects. The results indicate that the educational objectives of the BIM system should incorporate the principles of cooperation and integration, as the ultimate goal of implementing a building information modeling system is generating integrated knowledge. The building information modeling system can be taught as an independent course or in combination with other courses such as architectural design Studios. Therefore, recognizing the content of the course and the different fields of technology, policy and processes, measuring the capabilities assigned to learners in the field of technology, which is associated with gaining elementary knowledge in software, hardware, shared platforms, and technological equipment and expertise in modeling, project delivery and presentation techniques, requires an efficient and practical method, for which using BIM system and testing concepts and practical principles is recommended. On the other hand, regarding the subjects in the field of building information modeling processes, i.e. management skills, which reveals the degree of familiarity with the principles and rules for decision-making, and also measures and evaluates the scope of policies, i.e. the legal capabilities, in which the theoretical and standard skills of learners are considered, and finally regarding the theoretical and analytical nature of these fields, oral presentation, conference and interview methods are recommended. In the intermediate courses, this can lead to joint projects of architecture, structures, and facilities for the application of cooperation, and in advanced courses, it can lead to the presence and cooperation of learners in real projects and integration. Therefore, given the opportunities and benefits that building information modeling offers to the field of architecture and construction education, there is an urgent need for education, promotion, legislation and creating proper infrastructure in the field of building information modeling and its purposeful, optimal and principled use of such up-to-date construction system with the aim of improving the quality and executive level of the construction industry in Iran.

Developing a Conceptual Framework for Knowledge-Based Urban Development by Integrating and Analyzing Theories

Masoome Jafari; Manuchehr Tabibian; Hossein Bahraini

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 145-160

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2022.248491.1516

Abstract

Extanded AbstractBackground and Objectives: Knowledge has been a vital resource for progress since human existence on Earth began. However, the rapid delivery and completion of explicit ... Read More Extanded AbstractBackground and Objectives: Knowledge has been a vital resource for progress since human existence on Earth began. However, the rapid delivery and completion of explicit and targeted knowledge management as a strategic resource are new these days. In fact, due to a lack of understanding of the concept of knowledge assets and its resources, and regarding the lack of knowledge of content management development in cities, the nature of knowledge development and its pattern in the cities of developing countries needs to be clarified. There is also no written plan to move towards knowledge-based urban development. In this research, the influential components of knowledge-based urban development in Iran have been provided by analyzing and integrating the opinions of relevant thinkers.Methods: This research has a qualitative nature in terms of descriptive-analytical targeting, and it is conducted by content analysis and comparative research methods. The analytical approach of this article is non-interventional, and it is only used for highlighting and systematically expressing the optimal patterns and points that have been extracted from a collection of texts. Therefore, the bibliographic method has been followed to collect information. First, the opinions of thinkers were collected in three time periods of 1990-2000, 2000-2010, and 2010-2016 regarding knowledge-based urban development. Thereafter, the models and successful experiences in this type of development were collected and finally analyzed through categorical content analysis. The data were coded, and the Likert scale was used for the survey, which was theoretically saturated with 20 experts using the snowball sampling method after the screening. In the end, the indicators were prioritized by these people. Findings: After analyzing thinkers’ views in three different decades, examining the experiences of cities and countries in perspective and practice, and analyzing urban development patterns, the quality of criteria was analyzed. According to this method, using the Likert spectrum, six components, and twenty-five indicators were obtained based on the consensus of 20 urban experts, including professors, managers, and experts in this field. The obtained data were used to analyze potential cities in Iran in the realization of knowledge-based urban development. Finally, experts were asked to rate the components of knowledge-based urban development concerning Iran. First, the knowledge or institutional management component was prioritized at the top, and then the economic component, technology and communications, urban environment, knowledge indicators, and finally, the priority knowledge location were put into scrutiny. The main causes of the mentioned challenges were the inefficiency of management, the lack of integration, and the inexistence of integrated knowledge management in Iran, leading to the lack of realization of knowledge-based urban development.Conclusion: Urban development is a knowledge-based development in the 21st cities century resulting from extensive social, economic, environmental, managerial, and physical changes. According to extensive studies and projects in developed and developing countries, urban development has performed very well, and it can replace the current urban development plans in the world, given the existing context. One of the challenges is the need for integrated urban management to realize knowledge-based urban development. Another challenge is the need for more effective communication between universities, units, and educational institutions with growth places or knowledge-based industries to exploit the infrastructure and facilities and prevent the leaving of knowledge-making employees from the knowledge context. Another important challenge relates to a passive society that does not participate, especially in urban affairs, and creates social divisions. Another challenge is the need for more knowledgeable staff with political and social roots. As mentioned in this study, elite knowledge employees want adequate and appropriate infrastructure in this environment; however, when the vision of basic knowledge in Iran remains only theoretical, and the necessary infrastructure is not provided to attract these employees, brain drain occurs daily. Another challenge is the mono-product economy and the inflexibility of the market and government interference in private affairs, which can be seen in the social, managerial, and even ecological context. The impact of technocratic, inflexible, and coercive decisions on economic affairs is evident. Therefore, this development will not take place except in societies with good and transparent governance and a democratic society with cultural diversity and adequate and receptive infrastructure.

Identifying and Prioritizing the Social and Physical Criteria of Heterogeneous Neighborhood Based on the Perception of Neighbors (Case Study: Hassan Abad-Zargandeh Neighborhood)

Mehrnaz Ramzanpour; Ali Sharghi; Bahram Saleh Sedghpour

Volume 11, Issue 2 , December 2020, , Pages 153-172

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.169246.1171

Abstract

Extended Abstract Objective and Background: The growth and expansion of early residential nuclei have led to the formation of heterogeneous neighborhoods consisting of context with ... Read More Extended Abstract Objective and Background: The growth and expansion of early residential nuclei have led to the formation of heterogeneous neighborhoods consisting of context with a minimum standard of construction for low-income residents and a new quality context with more affluent residents. As a result, they have residents with different socio-economic and even cultural backgrounds living together over time. The formation of these complexes in different parts of Tehran has caused social, psychological, and physical problems in the residential environment, ultimately affecting the residents’ quality of life. On the other hand, in recent decades, “diversity” has found a special place in urban planning. Some views suggest that diversity is an essential component of equitable urban development. Variety can take many forms (racial, income, physical, functional, etc.). There are at least a few heterogeneous neighborhoods in each city. Variety in residential neighborhoods, which are heterogeneous in terms of socio-economic class, can lead to different judgments between different groups. In heterogeneous neighborhoods, the external perception of the adjacent residential environment leads to misjudgments, which may lead to interaction or, conversely, to separate groups from each other. Thus, creating a healthy environment in a heterogeneous context has become a significant and serious issue. According to numerous studies in the field of heterogeneous neighborhoods, external judgments are based on objective and subjective factors of texture. So far, the identification and prioritization factors of housing and residential environment quality during the perception and judgment of outsiders in such neighborhoods have not been addressed. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the factors influencing the external judgment of an adjacent neighborhood and the effect of the socio-economic class of individuals on the prioritization of these perceived factors in a heterogeneous context. According to the mentioned issue, this research aims to identify and prioritize the physical and social factors of the heterogeneous neighborhood by the perception of the residents. Methods: This study uses an applied research design. This article uses a survey method to measure the social and physical factors influencing the judgment of outsiders about their adjacent neighborhoods. The study area is Hassanabad-Zargandeh neighborhood, where two old and new contexts are located next to each other, providing accommodation for different classes of people. In this community, two groups of 250 people with different socio-economic class were selected in a poorly developed civilian and non-randomly affluent texture. 500 questionnaires were distributed among the study population to extract the funds and characteristics of housing quality and the residential environment from documentary and library studies and in the survey. Then, using the factor analysis method and the help of SPSS 24 software, the factors affecting external judgment in a heterogeneous context were discovered and prioritized. With this analysis, the views of different groups of residents and their evaluation methods on the objective and subjective characteristics of the neighborhood were obtained. Findings: According to the research findings, the residents’ priorities in their judgments are different from the housing and residential environment of the adjacent neighborhood. Accordingly, when perceiving and judging the adjacent housing and residential environment, the higher socio-economic status group pays attention to the factors of passway, open and private green space, facade, combination of uses, security, material, and details. The lower socio-economic status group pays attention to the security, façade, perceptual density, spatial quality, passway, access to facilities, and socio-cultural factor in their judgments. Conclusion: In the perception of a complex, higher socio-economic status group prioritizes physical factors over non-physical ones and pays more attention to them. It can be said that objective factors are more important for this group than subjective factors. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the diversity, architecture, and physical housing of the lower socio-economic status group to reduce the negative judgment of the affluent residents. Because in heterogeneous neighborhoods, paying attention to the attitude and tendency of the upper class to coexist with the lower class is more decisive. According to the visual and social disruptions, the different social classes, the place of residence, and ignoring how housing factors and residential environment are valued can cause negative labeling between a group (especially the affluent group to the lower class group), leading to tension and disintegration of a heterogeneous society. It is necessary to pay attention to these perceptual priorities in the planning and policy-making of heterogeneous urban contexts in order to make the coexistence of groups possible.

Physical Analysis and Cognition of Vernacular Architecture in Leives Village

Sajad Moazen; Shina Sad Berenji

Volume 12, Issue 2 , December 2021, , Pages 153-169

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.221675.1362

Abstract

Extended AbstractObjective and Background: Rural architecture is formed in the context of nature. A link between man and nature is created based on this architecture, which requires ... Read More Extended AbstractObjective and Background: Rural architecture is formed in the context of nature. A link between man and nature is created based on this architecture, which requires applied art to serve human needs. The best way to understand this art is to refer to the existing examples of its identification and analysis. Studying the construction technics of rural architecture is one of the most important ways to understand the vernacular architecture of any land. Leives is located 80 km northeast of Dezful. The village is at the hillside of Langar Mountain. The most important historical places in this village are GadamGah of Leives village and the tomb of Gusheh village (10km south of Leives).Methods: The present research is of a qualitative type that uses the grounded theory method. The field survey method was used to collect data and documentation. This article is the subject of empirical research that uses multiple sources and evidence to study the architecture of Leives village in its natural context. The architecture of Leives village is a cohesive whole created by its architectural details and structural techniques. To understand this whole, based on its components, cognition, and analysis of the village is described in two macro and micro scales.Findings: Leives village is divided into Ashiriha and Dinavarha neighborhoods. Leives village development process considering historical and constructional evolution includes 1. The initial core of the village formed around GadamGah and a monument named castle in Dinavarha neighborhood. 2. Dinavarha neighborhood (east of the village) 3. Ashiriha neighborhood (west of the village) 4. New buildings with vernacular materials. 5. New buildings with cement blocks and iron beams. For construction analysis of village streams, the seasonal water flow path in the village is investigated. Water can play both destructive or constructive roles –depending on human brilliance in the choice of location settlement. There are one surrounding stream and three inner minor streams in the village. These streams have some benefits: making two gardens in the south and southwest, using the stream as a route, and creating a natural borderline between Ashiriha and Dinavarha neighborhoods. The structural morphology of the village is described in a macro-scale, including the routes (The village Passages have numerous warps and varying widths throughout, indicating that the village’s fabric has gradually developed by natural growth), and the direction and orientation of the houses, which is the same as the direction of the mountain -northwest, southeast. Therefore, the openings are facing southwest for utilizing the maximum solar radiation to warm inside the house and provide interior lighting). The stepped architecture, micro-scale includes: entrance quality and openings sizes (hard climates (cold winters and direct sunlight in summers), the need to protect the interior from unexpected invasions of humans and insects, the lack of suitable materials for making doors and windows, and a ceiling beam are some of the reasons for the small size and the limited number of the doors, and windows). Used materials (stone and plaster), roofing technique (typically are arched), roof water isolation (usage of the free space between arch and roof as a wheat silo), tabo (large Cereal storage container which is going to be built with clay inside building simultaneously with the construction of the building) are also investigated.Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize the importance of choosing a suitable place to satisfy the living needs of villagers. Continuing to live in one place for centuries requires precise location choice in nature. In the village of Leives, the mountain direction and streams are the main factors in locating. Fields and gardens are at the south of the village, and the mountain protects the village like a strong barrier in the north. Being located next to the Langar Mountain brings security for the residents. Also, the farmers benefit from the good view of their cultivated lands. Living in this place requires its specific customs and behavior, and these customs also create their unique architecture. Self-sufficiency on a domestic scale, limited connections with other towns and villages, living between settlement and migration, nature dependency define the specific lifestyle of people in Leives. For this reason, there is no infrastructure designed for social life (such as the bazaar, mosque, and even designed neighborhood center). Finally, Leives architectural analysis can be described in this way: creativity in vernacular architecture is equivalent to the best, most simple, and most available answer to noble and basic human needs.

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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