Journal of Iranian Architecture & Urbanism(JIAU)

Different human –centered architectures are emerged. Mosque is a place for worship, we worship Allah in mosque , the sacred place. Light emersion is a variable discussed in this ... Read More

An Analytical Analysis of Physical Learning Environment effect on the improvement of Psychological Atmosphere in Schools from the Perspective of High- School Students

Sahebe Izad Panah; Mahdiyeh Pajohanfar; Behnam Ghelich Khani

Volume 8, Issue 1 , January 2018, , Pages 109-121

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.62051

Abstract

Investigating the Effect of Urban Squares Visibility on the Psychological Security of Pedestrians Using the Three-Dimensional Isovist Technique (Case Study: the Saat Square and Namaz Square of Tabriz)

Amir Shakibamanesh; masoumeh ayashm; Parisa Ghobadi

Volume 9, Issue 1 , September 2018, , Pages 121-134

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.68584

Abstract

Nowadays, with the development of cities and urbanization, the need for security in various areas is felt more than ever, yet, it is different from what it was before. Meanwhile, psychological ... Read More Nowadays, with the development of cities and urbanization, the need for security in various areas is felt more than ever, yet, it is different from what it was before. Meanwhile, psychological security is considered as one of the main and decisive parts of the security concept in urban spaces which is greatly affected by different variables. One of these variables, the effect of which on the sense of security in a place is the subject of this article, is physical visibility in urban environment. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the visibility of the body of urban squares - as a type of urban space - and the psychological security of the said spaces in the mind of pedestrians. In this context, a review and evaluation will be discussed in Saat and Namaz Squares of Tabriz. In order to evaluate and analyze visual data based on the natural movement of the observer in the urban space, Isovist 3D technique, and Geoweb3D software were used. Moreover, digital interactive modeling (simulated by Unity 3D software) was used to assess the impact of physical changes on visibility and in turn, the psychological security of the environments under study. In this study, from among the various components affecting psychological security in urban spaces, four components, i.e. space, form of space, visual comfort and permeability, were investigated as the most important physical factors affecting the psychological security. The results of assessments carried out showed that spaces with better indices of visibility (such as the volume of visibility, the layout of forms defining the volumetric structure of space, location and dominance of remarkable anchor points visible in space, etc.) are much more effective in altering the perception of the environment compared to other physical aspects, and contribute to a sense of psychological security. This research is a descriptive-analytic and applied research and field, library and documentary methods (with interviews and questionnaires) were used for data collections. Also, visual data analysis modeling has been utilized. The results of data analyses show that Saat Square of Tabriz, with limited sight range and more spatially defined familiarity, is more successful compared to Namaz square in providing a better and safer place in the minds of citizens.

Assessment of Environmental Preferences Theory in Relation to Urban Blocks Order (Case Study: Khaneh Isfahan Neighborhood and Mardavij Neighborhood, Isfahan, Iran)

Mohammad Masoud; Mahmoud Ghalehnoee; Mahmoud Shokuhi

Volume 8, Issue 2 , January 2018, , Pages 125-136

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2018.62069

Abstract

Assessing the viewpoints of consulting engineering companies on hard and soft skills for employing new architecture graduates employability

Parastoo Eshrati; Anahita Jam

Volume 14, Issue 1 , August 2023, , Pages 133-150

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.322086.1839

Abstract

Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The demand for employment upon graduation has heightened the significance of essential job market skills more than before. The main skills ... Read More Extended AbstractBackground and Objectives: The demand for employment upon graduation has heightened the significance of essential job market skills more than before. The main skills for entering any profession include soft skills and hard skills. Hard skills include the technical and scientific knowledge. Both skills are necessary for the profession. The purpose of this paper is to determine hard and soft skills required for the employment of new architecture graduates and assess the significance of each skill.Methods: The research questions aim to ascertain the significance ratios of these skills, identify the most and least important skills, and establish a correlation between company size (small, medium, and large) and the importance of these skills. Initially, following a comprehensive literature review, soft skills were classified into seven distinct categories. Simultaneously, the requisite hard skills for architecture graduates were extracted from the Ministry of Science and Technology-approved bachelor’s and master’s degree curricula in architecture, resulting in the presentation of a seven-category list of hard skills. Subsequently, a questionnaire based on the identified soft and hard skills was developed and administered to the study’s sample group, comprising managers from small, medium, and large companies. Companies were categorized based on the number of full-time employees, with “small” companies having 7 or fewer employees, “medium” companies having 7 to 12 employees, and “large” companies having 13 to 50 employees. Non-parametric tests were used for hypothesis testing. Given the nature of the hypotheses, which involve the comparison of three independent groups (small, medium, and large companies), the “Kruskal-Wallis test” was chosen to analyze the data collected from the questionnaires. Based on results of papers in the field of statistical analysis of small populations, a minimum sample size of 9 individuals is required to conduct the Kruskal-Wallis test for three groups. However, in this study, data collection exceeded this minimum requirement to the greatest extent possible for the authors. Subsequently, the data was quantitatively analyzed using SPSS software.Findings: The quantitative analysis conducted using SPSS software reveals that, according to company managers, hard skills hold a 44.38% level of importance, while soft skills account for 55.62%. However, the results of the Kruskal-Wallis test indicate that there is no correlation between the company size and the level of importance of hard and soft skills. Regarding the research findings, the hard skills in order of importance are: software, design, work experience, theoretical knowledge, free-hand drawing, legal regulation, and type of degree. In contrast, the order of importance for soft skills is as follows: professional ethics, analysis and problem-solving, self-management, leadership, project management, communication skills, and research. Furthermore, the study’s results demonstrate a significant relationship between a company size and the specific type of soft and hard skills required by that company. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that soft skills are more important than hard skills for hiring fresh architecture graduates but there is no correlation between the company size and the importance level of hard and soft skills in general. When considering hard skills, software is the most important in small companies, while regulation is the least significant. In medium-sized companies, work experience and design rank highest, whereas the type of degree is considered the least important. In larger companies, software stands out as the most crucial, while university rank is perceived as the least important. Among soft skills, in small companies, the most important skills are professional ethics and three skills including research, project management and communication are the least important ones; in medium size companies the most important skill is professional ethics and the least is project management; and in large companies the most important ones is professional ethics and the least is research. Regardless of the level of companies and the division of skills, the most important skill is professional ethics and the least important one is university rank. Analysis of interviews with company managers conducted in a qualitative manner also reveals the necessary changes required in the architecture education system to enhance students’ employability and offered suggestions for students. In light of the study findings, it is advisable to consider incorporating a course focused on developing soft skills into architecture curricula, particularly at the undergraduate level.

The Role of Open Space Legibility on Creating Social Interactions in Residential Complexes (Case Study: Saeedieh Residential Complex, Hamedan)

Ghasem Motalebi; Esmaiil zarghami; pooria saadati vaghar

Volume 9, Issue 2 , March 2019, , Pages 139-156

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2019.87938

Abstract

In the present study, the effect of legibility of open spaces in residential complexes on social interactions of residents is examined. In fact, the study seeks to answer this question: ... Read More In the present study, the effect of legibility of open spaces in residential complexes on social interactions of residents is examined. In fact, the study seeks to answer this question: "What relationship are established between the physical dimensions of the legibility and social interactions in the open space of the residential complexes and how this happens, and also what components and to what extent are effective in this regard?" It is assumed that the legibility of spaces between buildings, as the physical quality of the human-made environment, has a significant relationship with social interactions in the residential space to turn into a capability for creating dynamic, vigorous, and vibrant residential complexes. Regarding this, descriptive-analytic research was selected to examine the role of legibility in social interactions using indices derived from theoretical foundations. The data collection system in the social domain is through questionnaire. The population was the residents (2700 people) of Saeedieh Residential Complex, Hamedan and 210 questionnaires were distributed amongst them. Of the distributed questionnaires, 81 questionnaires were used for statistical analysis after refining and deleting the defective questionnaires. Statistical analysis of these questionnaires was done in SPSS and using variance analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient and stepwise linear regression. The hypothesis testing showed a significant relationship between the components of social interaction - types of mutual interaction, interaction with the site and the type of relationship in the residential complex. This significance is observed among the most of the components of spatial legibility as well. Concerning the research question of the impact of spatial legibility on social interactions, the results showed that the components 1) individuation of path, node, edge, sign and landmarks, 2) the definition of spatial units, 3) the opportunity of reviewing the spatial comprehensiveness, 4) barriers and visual disturbances, 5) architecture components emphasizing routing, have the greatest role in social interaction. On the other hand, geometry and accessibility components, clear composition of structure and configuration have little effect on the formation of social interactions of this residential complex. Moreover, the results showed that the three-dimensional components of architecture (e.g. the prominence of indices such as a statue and fountain and the prominence of the views such as that of the mountains) have a more significant role in formation of social interactions in the open space of the residential complex compared to bi-dimensional component of architecture (such as the geometry of the environment). However, spatial legibility in open space of Saeedieh Residential Complex has a relatively moderate effect on promoting interactions and social sustainability in this complex.

Revitalization of the Landscape of Urban Rivers with an Approach to Positive Interaction between Human and the Natural Environment; (Case Study: the River of Amol Shahr-roud)

Narges Hamzeh; Hamed Mazaherian; Mohammadsaeid Izadi; Morteza Lotfipour Siahkalroudi

Volume 10, Issue 2 , February 2020, , Pages 139-157

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2020.103681

Abstract

Iranians have realized the value of human-nature relationships within cities for thousands of years and have been pioneers in creating this relationship. That is to say, simultaneous ... Read More Iranians have realized the value of human-nature relationships within cities for thousands of years and have been pioneers in creating this relationship. That is to say, simultaneous with human settlements in fixed locations and emergence of cities, the nature of those areas in general, and in particular, the land, surface waters (rivers, lakes, marshes, and ponds) and groundwater were exploited and transformed. The advent of the European Industrial Revolution and its following evolutions in the 19th and 20th centuries led to major changes in people’s lifestyles, as a result of which, human being, thinking to domination over nature and exploitation of it, started to destruct the nature and over time, these changes became more intense such that land became an economic commodity. In the present century also, due to the growth of urbanization and intensification of changes in the way human beings think about nature, the long-standing equilibrium of man and nature has tended toward human’s dominance over nature. However, since a few decades ago, the need for a change in attitude toward nature was emphasized; that is, the shift in attitude toward the earth from perceiving it as a commodity for human use and benefit to perceiving nature and landscape as a matter of particular values and restoration of the sense of connection between human being and the earth on which it lives. In other words, today human beings believe in their adaptation to nature in the framework of environmental sustainability and maintenance as access to open and green spaces is the key to human health. The rapid growth of suburbs due to uncontrolled constructions, population growth, rapid suburban changes, and increased urban wastes and industrial wastes are all threats that endanger the planet and the future of human life, some of its symptoms are already present which have emerged as destructive changes, increased natural disasters, and climate change. With the trend that today’s human is following, many habitats will soon be destroyed by human activities and all of the human cultural heritage which is part of the natural environment will be destroyed. These undesirable changes and consequences are the results of the inaccurate method of designing and constructing separated from the natural substrate and in line with destroying it. The balance between man and nature was governed by nature. In the 19th century, with the rapid development of technology and the subsequent increase in urbanization process destroyed the long-standing equilibrium of human and nature. So, by reflecting on the relationship between man and nature throughout history and the process of human domination over it, solutions can be found to adapt the constructions to the environment and landscape and to prevent the current acceleration toward the destruction of cultural-natural diversity. Natural elements are part of the natural landscape that arises as a result of the overlap and interaction between human and nature. Thus, the revitalization of urban space and its main structure provides the basis for growth and is as a lever for urban development. Natural elements are part of the natural landscape that arises as a result of the overlap and interaction between human and nature. Since natural elements have multiple functions such as creation of social spaces, visual and environmental richness, creation of a sense of belonging to the place, environmental utility, and so on, therefore, restoration and revitalization of natural landscapes in the city are very important. This issue would be more important in urban rivers located in the northern regions of Iran due to their special role and functions. The river of Amol Shahr-roud, which flows from the historical sites of Amol city, is one of the most prominent natural resources of the historical city of Amol which plays an important role in the formation of the historic city of Amol and its districts. The main purpose of the present study is to achieve some principles, strategies, and solutions for revitalizing the natural landscape of urban rivers especially regarding the case study, the River of Amol Shahr-roud such that it can establish a positive interaction between users and the natural environment in physical, functional and environmental aspects.The present study was done in descriptive-analytical method and library documents and field method (use of satellite images, etc.) were used to collect the data. The successful domestic and foreign experiences and the principles of its application to the interaction between human and nature in these cities have also been analyzed. The results show that if it is possible to recreate the role of Amol Shahr-Roud as an effective element on quality of urban landscape by revitalization of the unusable spaces in the route and the Amol Shahr-Roud river walls along the route, it will be possible to take advantage from this river that is spread from the north to the south of the city to respond to the needs and activities of the city people. This study also indicates that the River of Amol Shahr-roud as a domestic river plays an important role in physical landscape, and social and environmental life of the texture of ancient neighborhoods which are recognized as physical, social, and environmental capitals of the natural landscape of the city and affect so much on linear and flexural formation, spatial hierarchy, walking routes, public facilities, integration of environmental elements, and ecological sustainability of the environment and its ecosystem.

Combined Use of a Few Different Methods in Measuring the Walkability Potential of Urban Pathways

Pooyan Shahabian

Volume 10, Issue 1 , May 2019, , Pages 141-158

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2019.131810.

Abstract

Walkability has a vital role in identification of space identity and understanding of environment quality, and for this reason it has attracted multiple theoreticians. Given the ... Read More

Development of Iranian industrial design companies based on optimal advertising model

Sarah Saffari; Hasan Sadeghi Naeini; Ata Allah Abtahi; Seyed Jamaleddin Tabibi; Ali Akbar Farhangi

Volume 12, Issue 1 , June 2021, , Pages 141-156

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2021.228378.1398

Abstract

Extended Abstract Backgroundand Objectives: Advertising is an effective marketing medium for attracting consumers and acts as a link between the brand and its customers. The efficacy ... Read More Extended Abstract Backgroundand Objectives: Advertising is an effective marketing medium for attracting consumers and acts as a link between the brand and its customers. The efficacy of this contact network, on the one hand, depends on determining the target group and the effectiveness of advertising messages. On the other hand, advertising effectiveness is not limited to product purchases but instead involves aspects of awareness and the intention to buy. In a competitive market between companies, advertisement is relevant, and most Iranian industrial design companies are less attentive to the issue of advertising, resulting in many challenges in the country. Since traditional advertising does not completely fulfill the needs of this market, the importance of advertisement in defining and generating the need and the use of the advertised subject should be considered in a wide scope. In order to improve the production and development of industrial design firms, this study aims to provide an appropriate model to enhance the advertising process, and its main objectives are to identify the main and sub-indicators of advertising effectiveness at home and abroad. It also tries to assess the most detailed and effective advertising model to develop production and the booming of the industrial design companies in Iran. Methods: This study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. The indicators are derived from the study literature in order to determine the frequency of indicator repetition based on the status of the paradigms, the degree of repetition, and the commonality of the sum of extracted indicators in the former. Using Grounded Theory and the Strauss and Corbin approaches, the success indicators of the identified paradigms (foreign companies of Apple, Samsung, IKEA, and Ziba Design) were determined from the consumers' perspective, and the similarities and discrepancies between indicators were established. Sub-indices with the highest frequency were coded, and a model was presented. In the quantitative approach, descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to review and test the proposed model. So, a questionnaire containing 3 demographic questions (age, education, and gender) and 45 questions with 5 point Likert scale were designed. Second, the sample size was identified using the random sampling method. The questionnaire was distributed among 384 customers of 4 domestic companies, including Rasmeh Design Studio, Exir Design, Pars Khazar, and Forminic Product Design. Data were collected and analyzed. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed using the content method (expert opinion), Cronbach's alpha, and model validation was confirmed using Smart Pls software. Findings: 40 indicators with the highest frequency, which were ignored by domestic industrial design firms, were chosen based on the indicators of international companies Samsung, Ziba Design, IKEA, and Apple, and classified and coded in four categories: communication with the consumer, announcements, marketing, and products and services. The suggested model was presented in relation to advertisement efficacy, with four hypotheses elucidated. The validity of the model was confirmed using the validity index and the redundancy check. The Smart Pls least squares technique was used to test the relationship of the examined variables in each of the study hypotheses based on a causal structure. The measurement model (the relationship of each visible variable to the hidden variable) and the structural model (the relationship of the hidden variables to each other) were determined in the general analysis model. The t-statistic was calculated using the bootstrapping technique to determine the significance of the relationships. The effects of a relationship with customer, announcements, marketing and products and services on advertising mechanism were calculated 0.468, 0.356, 0.448, and 0.337, respectively. The test probability statistics for each hypothesis were 10.0199, 3.062, 8.101 and 4.912, respectively. As they were greater than the critical value for t, 1.96, the effects were considered significant. Therefore, all hypotheses were significant at the 95% confidence level. Conclusion: The findings revealed that changing the advertising mechanism requires more than just announcements and advertisements. Particular attention should be given to the product and service categories. The indicators identified in this category demonstrated that carefully evaluating the opportunity value of the product and service, taking into account affordance, applying Gestalt in product integration, evaluating the consumer experience and analyzing Kano, and developing flexible samples and serializations will improve productivity and help the business grow. In order to reach the announcing stage, motionography and infographics must be used to introduce and portray the brand and product, as well as viral marketing on social networks and the use of hidden and explicit advertising in the media and community. The findings highlight the importance of paying attention to the customer's familiarity with the goods, expressing the possible advantages of purchasing and consuming products, considering the thoughts and needs of customers, and taking into account the desires and expectations of customers. Competitive competition can help the R&D department of domestic industrial design firms identify the demand and evaluate competitors, and content marketing and announcements lead to easy access to the desired product or service. The study of ethnography and demography in order to extend a company's branches will contribute to the systemic development of the company. Using various advertising methods can result in adequate consumer awareness of the product and sales growth. The implementation of a strategy in line with the company's business goals leads to constant communication with customers, depending on the extent and geographical area of the company's operation.

Development of urban furniture design inspired by nature; Case study: Street benches

Mahshid Mehreganfar; Nasser Koleini Mamaghani

Volume 14, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 143-158

https://doi.org/10.30475/isau.2023.333426.1891

Abstract

Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Throughout history, humanity has maintained a close relationship with nature. However, the rapid urbanization in recent decades has severely ... Read More Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Throughout history, humanity has maintained a close relationship with nature. However, the rapid urbanization in recent decades has severely limited human interaction with the natural world. In the past decades, nature has often been perceived solely as a foundation of resources and its systemic ecological processes that sustain our life have been largely overlooked. This disconnection has led to a growing sense of alienation from nature and a gradual decline in people’s appreciation for the natural environment. This phenomenon, known as the extinction experience syndrome, coined by Pyle, manifests as a general apathy towards environmental concerns. Consequently, there has been a loss of support and regard for nature. This research delves into the underlying causes of humanity’s passive and destructive orientation towards nature by providing a brief overview of the theories of extinction of experience and biophilia. Furthermore, it investigates the criteria of biophilic design as a means to bridge the gap between humans and nature. By examining various studies that draw inspiration from nature, this research explores the design criteria and practical patterns for urban furniture. The research objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of different indicators of urban furniture design, inspired by nature in biophilic design, that are efficient in reducing the disconnection between citizens and nature. The research draws upon previous studies to define the design patterns necessary for achieving this objective.Methods: This research adopts a descriptive (causal-comparative) and qualitative methodology. The data was collected through a literature review of previous studies using the bibliographic research method to understand the components that influence the design. After studying and categorizing the design elements associated with nature-inspired approaches, the design indicators were extracted. To assess the effectiveness of these elements, a visual questionnaire was administered featuring six street benches: five benches that designed through nature-inspired elements and the other with a direct interaction with nature. A total of 220 questionnaires were distributed among residents of district six of Tehran.Findings: The results demonstrate that the incorporation of elements inspired by nature, such as form, geometry, materials, texture, natural colors, mechanisms, and nature stimulation, in urban design evokes interconnectedness with nature and engenders a sense of being in nature among citizens. This, in turn, leads to indirect interaction with nature, thereby reducing the extinction of experience. The expansion of positive attitudes, behaviors, and emotional connections represents a valuable outcome of mitigating the loss of experiential connection. Notably, the mere presence of flower beds and plants adjacent to the urban bench, aimed at facilitating direct interaction with nature, did not fulfill citizens’ need for comfort and relaxation as effectively as the biomorphic bench. The integration with the surrounding context appears to stimulate deeper patterns in the citizen’s unconsciousness, creating a sense of active engagement with nature. These patterns establish alignment with the functions of nature and redefine nature as a positive element. It is evident that design, at this point, holds a more significant mission than merely creating visually appealing forms. By embracing nature as the main design mentor, human society can move towards sustainability and resilience. The research introduces five indicators as key elements of biophilic design for street furniture, aiming to facilitate indirect interaction with nature. These indicators can be categorized based on their level of effectiveness as follows: Nature evocation: This element, achieved through metaphorical designs inspired by natural elements, has the highest level of effectiveness. It satisfies the psychological and interactive needs of citizens by creating a sense of nature’s presence, even in situations where direct interaction with nature is limited due to the constraints of urban life. These metaphors connect individuals’ minds to natural patterns, evoking a connection with nature that may not exist in reality. Nature Textures: The use of nature textures in design serves as the second effective element. Incorporating textures such as plant textures, wood, wool, cotton, and stone plays a vital role in reminding individuals the nature’s value and stimulates their interest in the natural world. Natural Mechanisms: Employing natural mechanisms in design, known as biomimicry, represents the next effective element. By implementing nature’s mechanisms, designers can harness the wisdom of nature, not only leading to energy and material efficiency, but also connecting humans with instinctive patterns through the involvement of natural mechanisms. Natural Geometry and Form: The fourth effective element is the application of fractal geometry. Integrating fractal patterns and seamlessly blending them with the background can generate visual beauty that harmonizes with nature. The form, as the fifth indicator, complements the element of geometry. Designing shapes that emulate natural forms and structures aids in establishing a more profound connection to nature.Conclusion: Urban lifestyles have resulted in a diminished opportunity for individuals to interact with nature and develop a positive orientation towards the natural environment. Given that a significant portion of urban areas is dedicated to structures and buildings, and daily life predominantly unfolds in built environments, incorporating biophilic design elements that encompass encounters with nature, association with nature, and natural experiences can compensate for the disconnection between humans and their ancient origins in nature. The application of these three aspects of biophilic design can be tailored to the nature of the product or space and, in the case of street benches, nature inspiration is particularly suitable. The five elements encompassing form, material, color and texture, geometry, mechanism, and nature evocation can recreate the sense of interacting with nature for users during their engagement with the product. This indirect interaction with nature, as defined by Kellert, represents a significant step towards reducing the disconnection between citizens and nature while enhancing their level of engagement with the nature.