Journal of Iranian Architecture & Urbanism(JIAU)

Abstract After the development of transportation and the decline of environmental quality, especially in central context of cities, improving people’s living conditions and returning urban spaces to them became important. During the past five decades, many cities from all over the word have focused on the policy of constructing footpaths in order to make the cities walkable. However, constructing footpaths in various cities has had different outcomes, so far in some places that it has led to the closure of footpaths due to their failure and the reopening of the path to vehicles. Therefore, in this research we identify valid indicators for comparing successful examples of Iranian and foreign footpaths. With this we could identify the most important weaknesses of Iranian pathways compared to their foreign counterparts. This research is descriptive-analytic and is based on documentary and field studies. Also, Analytical Network Process (ANP) method has been used in order to compare the case studies, and to preserve all the relationships between clusters and nodes in the assessment. Furthermore, Delphi method (opinions of expert group) has been used for comparing the paired nodes and clusters. The results of this research show that the quality of Iranian footpaths is considerably lower than the quality of foreign footpaths. One of the main reasons for this is the absence of adequate attention towards “Social and Management” parameters in the planning and designing process of footpaths. Therefore, it is suggested that these factors are taken into consideration: paying attention to the needs of the “Beneficiaries’ in the designing process”, the “variety of users”, and “Project flexibility”.

Abstract Comparison of spatial structure of historical contexts and new neighborhood development in order to find a suitable and desirable pattern for developing new context, is one of the significant issues of urban designers and planners that helps
them to restore a positive pattern for development, and to prevent the formation of negative patterns of neighborhood development. In this regard, this paper studies the spatial structure of two historical contexts in Gorgan city andcompares them by using space syntax technique and its approach in physical structure and specially its street network. The results of this study, based on the space modeling indicators, shows that in the context of the Farhangian Town, the control, association and connection indicies on average are higher compared to the historical context, but is lower in the depth index. Therefore, it is clear that the historical context which has an organic structure, has a high internalization. Finally, the research findings can be used to design new urban developments.

Abstract  
The city gateway is one of most fundamental elements of spatial and physical structure of the city that has special functions and applications. The city gateway links the urban peripheral environment with its internal built environment that is like a domain and, as an urban space, different spatial and functional relationships are constituted in that. The study of urban spaces with their distinguished qualities in terms of dimensions of the scientific and executive foundations in urban planning is of special importance. The environmental qualities of the city gateway have different elements and components and have reciprocal interaction with each other and cannot be directly measured. The interaction of the mentioned elements reveals the intricate nature of the environmental quality of an urban gateway. The present paper is basic in terms of objective and its methodology is based on the mixed- method (quantitative- qualitative) research which specifies the environmental qualities in the space of city gateway and determines the amount of their importance and prioritization. Based on the obtained results, it was revealed that it can be said with 99 percent confidence that the use of term of city entrance is not conceptually correct and it is necessary to use the term of city gateway in the studies related to the urban planning. In the present paper, based on the scientific foundations of subject matter, some elements, norms and expertized measurements have been defined and the results obtained from the specification and determination of importance and prioritization of features of environmental qualities in the process of studies and organization of city gateway include respectively 1- environment, 2- functional, 3- time, 4- perceptual, 5- social, 6- landscape, 7- management, 8- spatial, 9- morphology and uniqueness.

Abstract It seems that many environments are built on the tastes, personal values and perceptions of designers, or under the influence of the teachings of an architectural style. Therefore, regardless of the quantitative aspects, it is required to pay attention and apply the perceptible meanings of the environment that can be pleasant or unpleasant from the user's point of view. Considering the relationship between man and the built environment as the basis for determining the environmental characteristics and especially, the physical characteristics in architectural studies in Iran is new. About the design of educational environments of architecture, social interactions between the students themselves and between them and the professor can help to exchange experiences and information and provide a favorable context for the education of architecture and architectural design. Sociopetality, as a qualitative feature of the educational environment can increase the possibility of social interactions between architecture students themselves and between them and the professors and promote the learning process of architecture. This study assumes that this goal can be achieved through the creation of sociopetal environments that enable social interaction. Therefore, environmental factors affecting sociopetality in the educational environment of architecture are investigated and the relationships between them are evaluated.
This research is an applied, descriptive-analytical study that is carried out using fuzzy mathematical modeling. After identifying the basic concepts of sociopetality, social interactions as well as the educational environment of architecture, the proposed model of factors influencing sociopetality was obtained through logical analysis and deductive reasoning. Then, the obtained factors were screened using Fuzzy Delphi method, and to evaluate their accuracy, a questionnaire was developed and some experts were asked to fill it. The main method used in this study is of Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods, which is one of the most important methods in evaluating cause-effect relationships (Lin, et al, 2018) (Tseng, Chiu, 2013), and because of the ambiguity and uncertainty of the problem, it was decided to solve it using fuzzy theory. Therefore, the relationships between factors and their effects were investigated using fuzzy dematel method. In this study, the population included all architecture professors (with a history of teaching and attending in the architectural environment) as experts aware of the research topic.
Finally, by summarizing all the comments and presenting the categorization including all the items, the main factors were divided into six general categories, which were confirmed using Delphi method, as follows:

Physical elements: They determine the physical structure and provide the facilities required for the use of space. They are one of the basic human needs for comfort and convenience in a place and increase the possibility of using the environment and social interactions. Therefore, it is necessary that light, sound and temperature in the educational environment of architecture do not disturb the user (student and professor) and dissuade him/her from attending in the environment.
Spatial-architectural elements: These are the elements of the physical environment, that enable the realization of a behavioral pattern by creating territories. Things like the dimensions, size and geometry of space, spatial relationships creating visual connection and spatial integration, the presence of natural elements as well as artificial elements, such as urban elements, stairs or water, can encourage people to stay and sit together and start an interaction.
Aesthetic meaning: This category indicates characteristics such as novelty, diversity, harmony and spatial proportions. The proportion between content (aesthetic) meanings and current activities in educational environment of architecture influences learning.
Sense of security: Security is seen as a social factor affecting sociopetality that provides the ground required for the presence of individuals. Providing adequate light and accessibility for specific groups are of factors helping to create the sense of security.
Semantic-perceptual elements: The meaning of the environment at different emotional, sensational, referential, evaluative, and prescriptive levels can affect the user of space. The physical environment also acts in relation to emotions and experiences, and aids the user's perception. Concepts such as invitingness, flexibility of the environment, etc. encourage students to be present in the learning environment, and enhance the students’ social interactions and learning process by enabling changes in environmental capabilities (such as furniture) according to their needs.
Functional-activity: By adapting current behavioral patterns to behavior settlements, presence and activity in the environment can be enhanced and common contexts for group behaviors in students can be created by creating a sense of belonging. Accountability activity and active employment (the possibility of various activities in place) as well as the presence of a space for interaction and conversation help the students' interactions and thus their learning.

Also, based on the interaction analysis and the relationship between the factors and sub-factors influencing sociopetality, the following notes can be mentioned:

“Functional-activity” factor with a net susceptibility value of 0.94 is the most affected factor on sociopetality in an educational environment of architecture. In other words, this factor is the main issue to be solved by the affecting factors. In fact, the realization of sociopetality in the educational environment of architecture depends on this factor.
"Physical elements" with an effectiveness value of 0.87 is the most effective factor on sociopetality in educational environment of architecture. In other words, it is the most important factor among those influencing sociopetality and should be prioritized when designing the environment. Also, "Spatial-architectural elements" with a difference of 0.09 is the 2^nd most effective factor that affects perceptual-semantic, aesthetic, sense of security and functional-activity factors, and enables different activities to be realized. Thus, light and lighting, odor and temperature, dimensions and size, geometry, spatial relationships, and the presence of natural and architectural elements were the main sub-factors affecting the sociopetal environment and playing a role in the creation of such an environment.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Objective and Background: Henri Lefebvre’s theory of production of space has been one of the most influential theories in spatial studies that deals with the relationship between the mentality of urban residents and urban space. The triad of spatial practice, representations of space and representational spaces, which have been discussed in that theory, have proven to be problematic due to its failure of explanation of the way that semeiotical significations in a representational space lead to the creation of meanings in the mind. In addition, it is not precise from the perspective of the cognitive psychology. The objective of present essay is the criticism of Lefebvre’s triad and explanation of the process of thought and representation in mind by means of Vygotskian School in cognitive psychology and application of the mental schema model. By criticism of Lefebvre’s theory and revelation of its deficiencies and finally, by the use of model of mental schema, the following question is answered: How is urban space created in relation to consciousness and mentality of its residents?
Methodos: The methodology of current essay is based on two general methodological approach: system approach in epistemology and structurationist ontology; with emphasize on becoming, which is dialectic. Thus, it is emphasized that there is something beyond the mere expression of the mutual relationship between structure and culture, environment and psyche of man and it is that social and spatial phenomena should be studied in the course of their evolution, maturation and fall in history; this is indeed the method of dialectic.
Although Lefebvre’s method from the perspective of its three moments helps us to avoid the absolute and one-sided encounter with spatial issues, it is still problematic and subject to criticism that how representational spaces influence human psyche and mind through the process of semiotical significations as well as the adi of physical objects that contain meanings (whether in line with political and social resistance or in line with the regeneration of the dominant way of production through systematization of space and exertion of hegemony over the space).
Findings: This criticism took place through the encounter of the ideas of Lefebvre with the ideas of Vygotsky and Bakhtin and expression of the role of mental schema in understanding of meanings and interpretation of the inputs and their externalization. Firstly, Vygotsky in his discussion as regards inner speech showed that on the one hand, there is a distance between the meaning of a word and its sense. On the other hand, he proved that there is a difference between the scientific concepts and everyday concepts, which in turn reminds us the Hegelian difference of “In-itself” and “For-Itself. In addition, scientific concepts, which are the result of education, surpass the everyday concepts in mental analyses. Secondly, according to Bakhtin’s theory, process of thought has a dialogic nature, and in the word of every individual, there is always a trace of “otherness”. This issue leads us towards understanding the role of social groups in individual consciousness. Thirdly, mental schema, which are the dynamic element of individual consciousness and have a propositional nature change following the creation of question and search for answer. Following the change of the mental schema, if the individual finds the opportunity for institutionalization and popularization of his own idea, the culture would change too. Then, culture can be defined through the change in mental schema. On the other hand, problem of cognitive distortion is also related with the concept of exertion of hegemony and false consciousness, which can be discussed in the form of the intentional manipulation of the mental schema. Through these three theoretical foundations, one can conclude: 1)consciousness acts by means of the concepts that build mental schema; 2)since reality is changing, concepts also change in the course of time, and change in concepts and their relations through raising a question, findings answer, training and institutionalization leads to the change of mental schema; 3)individual consciousness has a collective structure, i.e. it is influenced by social groups which host the individual as their member; 4) factors of hegemony succeed to control cultural space and lived space thanks to cognitive distortion. Definition of culture through model of mental schema causes the mode of production and change of space to be clarified without being entangled with the cognitive deficiencies of Lefebvre’s cognitive theory. In an analysis that was proposed of the everyday concepts and scientific notions, it became clear that perceptions and ideas that take place due to the semiotical metaphors and significations within lived space and through spatial representations of Lefebvre are mere everyday concepts. Therefore, they do not have the logical structure of scientific concepts and even if the end of the concatenation of associations leads to similar action, since they have led to that action with an inferential method and by means of different notions and interrelations between them in the form of mental schema, soon or later, the difference and contradiction of them will be revealed. Therefore, Lefebvre’s political project, i.e. the ideal society that will be realized through resistance of different groups like oppressed, underclasses, ethnic groups, gender groups and other before the capitalist system, is more a poetic notion than a scientific analysis of the mental conditions of those groups.
Conclusion: The results acquired through findings and discussions show that semiotical significations in lived space not in a poetic form that is hidden in Lefebvre’s expression rather through the role that concepts and the relations between them are established between them in the form of schemata in mind. Moreover, study of formation and change of space requires the study of the evolutionary schemata of intentional and active man whose consciousness has taken form by mediation of the semiotical systems and tools and of course, changes in the course of time. Since the consciousness of every individual is influenced by the social group to which the individual belongs, the mental schemata of social groups regarding a determinate space should be studied.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Given the significance of human presence in open spaces and the influence of climate on urban activities and behaviors, this study addresses the crucial aspect of outdoor thermal comfort. Urban open spaces, especially in hot climates, make users experience high thermal loads leading to thermal discomfort. Outdoor thermal comfort can be improved by controlling radiation and shading to mitigate stresses induced by surface overheating and environmental factors. This research underscores the importance of shading and radiation reduction to promote human presence, create a micro-climate, and improve comfort conditions in urban open spaces. Recognizing shade-producing factors, such as canopies, can contribute to creating desirable outdoor environments. In this context, fabric membrane structures are suitable solutions for hot climates, offering shade and natural ventilation. In hot and arid climates like Semnan, outdoor thermal comfort is not met due to factors such as intense heat, clear skies, strong sunlight, limited vegetation, and a lack of shade. Consequently, outdoor spaces are usable for only limited hours and only for specific seasons. However, by controlling the temperatures and introducing shading, a key factor in cooling the environment and reducing air temperatures during hot periods, thermal comfort conditions can be provided to some extent. Membrane canopies, with their unique properties, are suitable for outdoor spaces, particularly in hot and arid climates, offering users enhanced thermal comfort.
Methods: This study investigates the effect of lightweight membrane canopies on outdoor thermal comfort in Semnan, characterized by a hot and dry climate, through a combination of bibliographic research and simulations using ENVI-met and ANSYS software. The bibliographic research is conducted through scrutinizing the sources and documents and analyzing Persian and non-Persian materials related to outdoor thermal comfort and lightweight membrane structures, employing both descriptive and analytical information analysis methods. Simulations are run using ENVI-met to assess the influence of shade on the environment and ANSYS software to simulate various common shade models, assessing their effects on thermal comfort. The simulation analysis follows a comparative research data analysis and review approach.
Findings: The findings indicate that installing a membrane canopy during summer results in a temperature reduction of up to 4.7 °C, substantially improving thermal comfort conditions. Lightweight membrane canopies effectively cool the space beneath them and prevent ground overheating. According to previous researches and considering that there are two factors of high temperature and low humidity in the hot and dry climate of Semnan, the combined use of shade to reduce temperature and vegetation to increase humidity has a significant effect on thermal comfort in the hot and dry climate of the Semnan. This discrepancy is attributed to real-world conditions where wind, surrounding objects, and natural elements around the canopies disperse heat, and the flat plate strongly absorbs heat; however, in real conditions there are other objects around the canopies that reduce the intensity of heat. Although shade does not cool the ground, it effectively mitigates excessive heating. In the current simulations, the ground surrounding the canopy heats up to 70-80 °C, but temperatures are cooler under the canopy. If the lowest temperature under the canopy is the criterion, the saddle canopy is more suitable, and if the cooling capacity of the shade is important, the saddle canopy has performed better.
Conclusion: Lightweight membrane canopies cause temperature differences in hot and dry climates. The Ansys simulation results with the aim of investigating the effect of the membrane shade and determining the suitable form for the light membrane shade confirm that the membrane canopy cool the space under and prevent excessive ground overheating. Out of the four membrane canopy models available, namely the Simple, Conical, Umbrella, and Saddle designs, the Saddle canopy stands out with an effectiveness rate of 43.15% in the environment, demonstrating strong performance in creating a cooler space beneath it and can be considered the most suitable choice among the canopy models.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Today, smart cities are a new paradigm in the global urban planning system. Based on the capabilities of information and communication technology, these smart cities try to improve the quality of life in places which are immersed in numerous problems with social, economic, environmental and other dimensions. However, a comprehensive, multidimensional, complex smart city is based on the urban planning paradigm of complexity and chaos which can lead to successful planning and management. The present study, from the perspective of modern chaos theory, is aimed to formulate strategic requirements for the realization of the smart city in Ahvaz metropolis.
Methods: This article is in the category of applied-developmental research, which is question-based. It has been accomplished using bibliographic and survey method, using exploratory factor analysis, one-sample t-test and Friedman ranking test in SPSS software. The survey instrument was a 5-point Likert questionnaire whose final content validity was confirmed by professors and its reliability was confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.906. The statistical population consist of the experts of the institutions involved in the smartening process of Ahvaz metropolis. A combination of clustered snowball sampling methods and monitored network was used in this research. Finally, 380 questionnaires were completed. The adequacy of the number of samples was confirmed by KMO method.
Findings: Based on the findings of the research, in relation to the theory of chaos, it is possible to conclude that Ahvaz metropolis is affected by the non-linear effect in the smartening process; also, the butterfly effect is significant in this metropolis. Moreover, in connection with the modulating variable of the power of universities and research institutes, sensibly, it can be accepted that the condition of this component is also not inappropriate. Using Friedman’s ranking test, the authors ranked the components and indicators including the butterfly effect of social and ethnic pluralism, social moderators, steady flow of energy, people, non-linear effect, variable modulating power of universities and research institutes, contexts, structural forces, institutional forces. Finally, the use of communication and information technology capabilities in promoting environmental quality (motivators) are located.
Conclusion: Based on the results of the research, nonlinear effects govern the process of smart city development in Ahvaz significantly. This implies that a nonlinear system, influenced by variables such as conflicting interests, developmental contradictions, ownership conflicts, and the level of technology acceptance by the public, dominates the realization of the smart city in Ahvaz. These factors have led to turbulent conditions in this metropolis. In this context, the impact of two key factors, namely, government and oil, on this process and system, as well as the central-peripheral dynamics shaped in the country, particularly in connection with the oil-rich city of Ahvaz, cannot be overlooked. As many researchers have emphasized in their studies, the government has commercialized money and capital in the cities through the vast banking system. It has helped the expansion of cities and urbanization more than ever. This extensive and unmatched influence of the government originates above all from the way of obtaining its revenue sources, i.e. the export of crude oil, the resulting national surplus has an important contribution to the accumulation of capital and expanding reproduction in the economic process of the country. In such an atmosphere, the military creation of the center and the periphery has caused the emergence of an unbalanced national development model. Therefore, as observed in the analytical research model, the government and oil entities, in addition to their impact within the framework of internal structural institutions of the Ahvaz metropolis, are considered external influential factors in the overall drivers of smart city realization in Ahvaz. The presence of these two entities, due to their interactions with each other and the factors of conflicting interests, developmental contradictions, ownership conflicts, and the level of technology acceptance by the public, intensifies the nonlinear effects in the process of smart city development in Ahvaz. Inside, the stimuli have stimulated the drives and the drivers - based on the theoretical foundations of smart cities - with the goal of achieving a more efficient, sustainable, livable and fairer city in an urban framework with dimensions of smart environment, smart life, smart economy, smart mobility, smart governance and smart people to mobilize resources and facilities. But in the meantime, the factor of social and ethnic pluralism as a factor with a butterfly effect can be effective in this movement from drivers to a smart city. Also, in this transformation, two social moderator variables and the power of universities and research institutes are effective in this movement. In addition, the internet access flows as a constant flow of energy on the entire system.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Behavioral science is a dynamic and evolving field shaped by the context of its broader environment. This evolution is marked by a bidirectional relationship involving a two-way interaction, where behavioral science both influences and is influenced by other scientific disciplines. Consequently, research in this field adopts various perspectives, tailored to factors such as age, gender, physical, and environmental conditions, depending on the study’s objectives. The diversity of perspectives results in a wide range of valid research methodologies, with each study employing distinct methods, tools, and approaches to meet its goals. However, despite this diversity, there is a notable lack of consistency and coherence in the methodological approaches used across behavioral science studies. This inconsistency affects multiple aspects of research, including data collection and analysis tools, methods, strategies, aims, and overarching paradigms. The outcome is a proliferation of varied research approaches that often lack alignment, leading to dissonance among different research components. This methodological inconsistency presents significant challenges, limiting researchers’ ability to effectively achieve their objectives. Given the inherent complexity of urban issues within behavioral and social sciences, there is a strong need for innovation throughout all stages of research. This need extends from the initial phases of problem formulation and the definition of objectives and hypotheses to the development of various theories. Achieving such innovation and ensuring research effectiveness in this field requires the creation of a systematic methodological framework. This study aims to address this critical gap by proposing a suitable methodological framework to improve the efficiency, coherence, and overall vision of research in behavioral sciences. To achieve this, the study utilizes a Meta-Method approach, reviewing methodological considerations in behavioral sciences research conducted from 2011-2023.
Methods: The research methodology for this study is qualitative, involving a comprehensive content analysis of existing behavioral sciences studies related to behavioral sciences. The approach is grounded in Meta-Method considerations, which offer a structured framework for the analysis. The Meta-Method approach follows a seven-stage process: 1) Formulation of the research question, 2) an extensive literature review and selection of relevant articles, 3) a systematic review of the articles, 4) data extraction, 5) data analysis and findings, 6) presentation and interpretation of findings, and 7) drawing conclusions based on the analysis. Initially, 70 articles related to the research topic were identified from reputable domestic scientific databases. A rigorous selection process was then applied to exclude articles with minimal relevance, involving a detailed review of titles, abstracts, and full texts. This ultimately led to the selection of 30 articles for in-depth analysis. To further refine the methodological framework, the onion model of research was used in analyzing these studies, with the aim of proposing an appropriate methodological model for conducting research in behavioral sciences.
Findings: The analysis of the selected studies uncovered a significant gap in the methodological orientation of behavioral sciences research. Many studies lack a clear methodological framework that aligns with their research objectives, often concentrating narrowly on one or two behavioral aspects, such as walking or standing, without using a structured methodology. Furthermore, most of these studies are field-based and focus on micro-urban and meso-urban scales, reflecting a localized and indigenous approach to problem-solving. While this localized focus is valuable, it limits the ability to generalize and apply findings to broader contexts within behavioral sciences research. Additionally, these studies primarily follow a pragmatism paradigm, employing both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Common tools include interviews, questionnaires, observations, and statistical analysis, all aimed at practical, applied research rather than foundational or developmental studies.
Conclusion: To address the identified gaps, this study presents a new methodological model tailored to the specific research questions and objectives in behavioral sciences. This model provides a clear research pathway, outlining the appropriate methodological approach based on the nature of the research question. According to this model, behavioral sciences research can be divided into three distinct types. The first type includes revelatory and descriptive studies that focus on “what” questions, using strategies like surveys, ethnography, and case studies to explore user behaviors within the environment. The second type consists of explanatory and understanding studies that tackle “why” questions related to urban issues, employing a combination of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods, along with strategies such as surveys, correlation studies, ethnography, and case studies. The third type involves intervention studies, which focus on “how” questions, following the stages of revelation, explanation, description, and understanding. These studies use mixed methods within a pragmatism paradigm, incorporating a survey strategy aimed at achieving environmental and behavioral change.

Abstract Today, providing housing as one of the most basic biological needs is of particular importance in social and economic development programs of societies. Providing housing, in particular suitable housing, in terms of providing comfort and well-being of humans, plays an important role in the lives of the people of the community. Following the increasing growth of urbanization caused by population growth and rural migration, and in the context of limited land resources and the lack of horizontal growth of cities, verticle development , called "high-rise", was considered. The development of this phenomenon without proper planning and lack of attention to issues such as texture and cultural factors in the interactive interiors of the habitat leads to the appearance of behaviors from the inhabitants, which disrupts and destroys the culture of residence. In this research, with the aim of reducing the effects of highrise on the lives of residents, especially residents of Shiraz, and with regard to the local concept of culture through the increase of residential culture, first, the most important components affecting the cultureof residence are identified by using library studies method and by reviewing literature. Then, using Delphi method, snowball sampling method was used. Furthermore, in order to find out the difference between the status quo and the expected situation, a 41-question questionnaire with a sample size of 110selected experts all familiar with the habitat culture in Shiraz was used to analyzethe components , and the factors related to physical need, safety and peace, social interaction, social identity, discipline and self-flourishing were analyzed. A better understanding of this difference was evident in the dispersion gap. Finally, by providing solutions to coordinate high-ranking officials with the specific culture of the city of Shiraz, the living conditions can be improved and an environment rich in vitality and tranquility can be provided.

Abstract A contextual design is sensitive when a new construction wants to add within historic district or areas contain a significant number of historic buildings. Intervention to historic contexts especially addition and infill design have always been a big issue in the preservation field. For the new addition into urban historical context there are no simple rules for achieving quality of design   in the new addition, although a clear and coherent relationship of all the parts of the new work to the whole, as well as to the setting into which it is introduced is essential. New work should aspire to a quality of design and execution related to its setting, which may be valued both now and in the future. In shaping the built environment it is important to have a responsibility to past, present and future generations. Therefore, Infill work or design in a historic context should be linked the past to the present and projects into the future. This neither implies nor precludes working in traditional or new ways, but demands respect for the significance of a place in its setting. 
In the contemporary architectural addition and designs in Iran’s historical context, it is not seen a favorable interaction between historical sites and new parts. Until about 50 years ago, these interactions were less damaged by and protected against the effects of new interventions and constructions, due to the presence of traditional architects and the continued use of some deep-rooted architectural patterns, but the damage to historical buildings and collections gradually increased over time by moving away from genuine social and physical patterns. Part of this process, due to the lack of theoretical foundations and a holistic and principal approach, has practically made our historical cities disturbed and greatly distorted their historical and architectural identity. The contextualist approach, therefore, states that historical buildings, in addition to reaching a suitable appearance for living, should reflect the delicacies of traditional Iranian architecture. 
This study is an applied, descriptive and analytical research that is carried out based on the case study using data collection, desktop study, and field research, referring to historical documents and performing qualitative analysis. Moreover it is intended to provide clear and objective recommendations for the restoration or rehabilitation of structures, as well as new construction on vacant parcels or additions to existing buildings within the city’s old and historic districts. While portions of it are dedicated to other topics such as repair, maintenance and fascinating architectural history. 
After data collection and review of the physical and visual factors involved in such interventions of historical buildings and complexes, European countries such as Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, have been examined. While visiting them, different aspects of intervention, including the used materials, the relationship between historical and modern elements from the general and partial perspectives, the joints between new and old sections, etc. have been explored. Finally, it was attempted to provide some design guidelines that would physically organize the interventions performed in historical buildings and collections. 
These guidelines are to encourage redevelopment that is compatible with the existing character of the city’s core as well as continue to preserve the character of the existing neighborhoods. Continued regional growth has increased developmental pressures in the city’s core. These guidelines are targeted, but can also apply to new development outside of the area. The design guidelines serve as a reference for property owners, developers, residents, and public officials responsible for reviewing development plans within the area. 
The criteria are meant to address the exterior appearance of buildings. The guidelines are not intended to prohibit creative approaches to individual building designs, or to promote architectural uniformity. It is the intent of this document to foster collaboration between the Context and the developer/builder early in the design process of a redevelopment project. 
The goals of redevelopment projects is for them to reflect an understanding of the immediate site surroundings and context character. The projects should consider existing features including massing, height, setbacks, proportions, scale, roof forms, materials, articulation, lighting, signs and awnings while creating appropriate architectural design. It is a particularly useful resource for property owners, occupants, landlords, members of the design and construction professions and anyone wishing to alter a property within an old and historic district.

Abstract The development of cities and uncontrolled increase in the number of vehicles have led to the inability of children to use many spaces and lands appropriate for play. This is while urban areas, especially urban parks, can have the greatest impact on fostering children's creativity. The aim of this study is to identify physical components that affect the creativity of Iranian children aged 6 to 12 in playgrounds located in urban parks, and to explain the most important index of each of the components and the relation between them. In this study, by combining theories related to the subject, survey research method is used. Also, in order to determine the view of professionals on effective physical factors, targeted self-made questionnaires were distributed between 154 Iranian experts in the area of urban planning, architecture, phycology, and educational science and 94 acceptable responses were received. The collected data was analyzed and ranked using SPSS22 and statistical tests; then, with Path Analysis Method and the help of Smart PLS software, the research model was developed based on relationships between variables. The results, according to experts' view, show that the most important components influencing the enhancement of the children's creativity are diversity, vitality and physical flexibility in urban play spaces. With this said, material diversity and sitting spaces have the greatest direct and indirect impact on children’s creativity.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Religions do not develop in isolation; instead, they emerge within cultural, social, and geographical contexts. Islam and Judaism both originated in regions characterized by specific cultural, social, and geographical factors. Rather than rejecting these contexts, these religions often engaged with and, over time, influenced by elements that were compatible with their respective beliefs. This adaptation was driven by the need to foster empathy with the local people and facilitate the acceptance of the new faith. Consequently, religious places gradually took shape, and formed by the existing contexts. This study carries out a comparative analysis of the impact of cultural, social, and geographical factors in the birthplaces of Islam and Judaism on the development of their first religious places. It seeks to investigate the role of cultural, social, and geographical contexts in shaping the first religious places in Islam and Judaism?
Methods: This research uses a qualitative, interpretive-analytical approach and utilizes a comparative methodology to investigate how the cultural, social, and geographical contexts in the birthplaces of Islam and Judaism influenced the formation of their early religious places. Data collection relies on extensive library resources. The case studies selected for examination include the Kaaba, the Medina Mosque, and the first Islamic mosques for Islam, and the Tabernacle, the Temple in Jerusalem, and the earliest synagogues for Judaism. The research treats cultural, social, and geographical contexts as interpretive and comparative units. It begins by identifying these contexts in the regions of Islam and Judaism’s origins and then assesses their impact on the formation of the first religious places in these two religions. 
Findings: The findings of this study revolve around an analysis of how the cultural, social, and geographical contexts in these regions influenced the development of the first religious places in Islam and Judaism. In the cultural context, aspects such as artistic expressions, beliefs, individual values, and convictions originating from previous or new religious influences were examined. The social context encompassed political, economic aspects, customs, collective habits, societal norms, and values, while the geographical context included the climate and the physical location of the birthplaces of these religions and their relationship with the formation of religious places. Specifically, the study evaluated how these aspects and contexts influenced the creation of the Kaaba, the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, and the first mosques in Islam, as well as the Tabernacle of the Covenant, the Temple of Jerusalem, and the earliest synagogues in Judaism.. 
Conclusion: The results reveal that Islam and Judaism differed in terms of the extent to which each context influenced them. In the comparison of cultural contexts and aspects, including beliefs, individual values, and beliefs derived from previous or new religions, it became evident that both religions were influenced by the preexisting beliefs of the land. For instance, Islam embraced concepts such as the interaction between the present life and the afterlife, monotheism, and the rejection of polytheism, while Judaism adopted beliefs in the sanctity of stones and directions. In the comparison of social contexts and aspects, Islam prioritized collective worship and equal access to religious spaces for all members of society, as seen in the Kaaba and the Medina Mosque. Conversely, Judaism, influenced by beliefs in social hierarchies, exhibited spatial divisions and social hierarchies in accessing inner spaces, as witnessed in the Tabernacle of the Covenant and the Temple of Jerusalem.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Objective and background: One of the main problems in contemporary Iranian architecture is the loss of identity and its related factors, such as a sense of attachment to the place due to neglecting the semiotic aspects of architectural reading and design in instruction ideation. The design meaning and indicators are effective in creating identity, beauty, and pleasure in architectural work via giving rise to an internal perception of space. Semiotics provide the most important meaning factors and can effectively upgrade the sense of place for a better relationship between architecture and users. Using the principles of semiotics is one of the best solutions to investigate how meaning is granted to space. As the most distinct semantic factors in creating mental associations via relying on the concept of implication, symbols can effectively enhance the sense of place in relation to the audience. Thus, using semiotics from the perspective of the designer's relationship with the audience in instructing design can be a step towards granting meaning to space and creating a sense of place for the users. However,  the imitation and copying of samples result in a lack of identity and social culture. Ideation is one of the most seminal and most important parts of the design instruction process. Therefore, the negligence of the meaning in the design process can also affect the ideation process because the final design is the representation and reflection of the ideas. The ideas mentioned in the literature review, including "patterns of design," 'sign," and effective factors on readability," show that previous researches have neglected the semiotic approach in ideation. Therefore, there is a need for a semiotic approach. In this study, the first research question is: "what are the effective factors in the creation of ideation process" and the second question is: "How is the relationship between the effective factors in design instruction process based on semiotics." The factors of  'human,' 'time' and 'place' that are effective on mental images should be considered when semiotic is used. This research aims to correct the design instruction process in ideation levels using semiotics by emphasizing the users' perception.
Method: The qualitative and quantitative research methods, path analysis, factor analysis, and modeling have been used in this research. The quantitive research method can be defined in two phases. In the first phase, the "cross-sectional survey" is used for exploring the user community, and the correlation method is used in the second phase. The survey study method begins without any presumption. In this article, the opinions of a group of architecture students and their professors on the research subject have been collected in the form of a questionnaire, and at the end, based on this information, concepts and effective variables are identified, and factor analysis is performed. The second phase of the research begins with the assumption obtained from the survey. This study is of descriptive-analytical type in terms of the method because, because in addition to showing the facts, the reasons for the problems are also explained.
Finding: According to the findings, "the research-oriented analysis" directly influences the dependent variable. Moreover,  the "aesthetic aspects" that act as the intermediary variable are influenced by the "research-oriented analysis" because the aesthetic aspects differ based on the social-cultural background. Thus, it is necessary to recognize the aesthetic aspects of the context's social culture through research-oriented analysis in the instruction process. On the other hand, it influences other factors such as "ideation" and "collective reading-oriented evaluation of the signs". Another intermediary variable that influences the dependent variable based on the model is the aesthetical aspect. One of the factors influencing the reading and perception of the signs is the psychological issues. Since the reading and perception of users are the main parts of semiotics, "the collective reading-oriented evaluation of signs" also plays as another intermediary variable in the formation of the model. This could increase the audience's satisfaction since their needs are met.  Also, the design idea is presented for the audience's collective evaluation, and the model forms the "research-oriented analysis" in case of dissatisfaction. That is because dissatisfaction with an idea shows inadequacy and/or imprecision in the identification of the context and the semiotic researches. Hence, the ideation is repeated until the audience's satisfaction is achieved in the evaluation stage.
Conclusion: The results show that "research-oriented analysis", "aesthetic aspects", "psychologists aspects", and "collective perception-based evaluation of signs" are the effective factors in the creation of the ideation process. The proposed model is introducing a cycle that concentrates on the evaluation of user's perceptions by signs.

Abstract Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Today, for various reasons, a small and inadequate floor area is often allocated to private semi-open spaces in apartment housing in Iran. This allocation results in a significant reduction in the efficiency of these spaces. Consequently, the potential of the space to accommodate the daily presence and use by the residents is almost lost. The present study aims to specifically address this issue from the perspective of the development control system and to consider the role of building regulations in ensuring the minimum acceptable usability of these spaces.
Methods: In this research, in the first step, 10 international examples of building codes related to the minimum allowable dimensions of residential balconies in some developed countries of the world including England, Ireland, Australia, Singapore, Japan, Dubai, Luxemburg, and the Netherlands are studied and an attempt is made to identify the logic of calculating these values. In the second step, a review of building codes related to the minimum dimensions and floor area of semi-open private spaces in the current development control system of Iran and specifically the city of Rasht is performed. In the following, an attempt is made to provide a definition of the “usable minimal balcony” for the city of Rasht and to calculate its required area and dimensions. In the next step, the current status of balconies design in the apartment housing in Rasht is examined. To do this, the apartment plans approved by the plans control department of the Iran Construction Engineering Organization (IRCEO) of Rasht City were used and we examined all the apartment housing plans of three floors and above, which were approved in this organization in the period of three months from January to March 2021. During this period, 340 apartment units with a total of 401 balconies were approved by the organization. In the final step, an attempt was made to make a comparison between the minimal balcony dimensions defined in the present study and the existing balconies in the statistical community.
Findings: Based To define the minimal usable balcony dimensions, the specific conditions of the target community must be considered. Otherwise, the possibility of enforcing this rule will be reduced. It should be noted that currently in the city of Rasht, there are no regulations regarding the minimum dimensions of these spaces. On the other hand, the current common dimensions of balconies in the housing market of Rasht City are significantly smaller than the standards of the studied countries. This has its own economic, social, and cultural reasons and the study of these issues is outside the scope of the present study. However, it can be concluded that the required dimensions and floor area of the balcony in Rasht apartment housing should be defined as smaller than the countries studied. Based on these considerations, the required dimensions of balconies depend on the number of bedrooms, the number of people living in the residential unit, and, in some cases, the geographical orientation of the balcony in the studied countries. However, in the present study, the minimum dimensions of the balcony in all apartment units are considered a fixed value. Thus, an efficient minimal balcony is considered one that has the necessary area for the installation and proper operation of a small set of a table and chairs for two people, a barbecue, and a gas boiler. Accordingly, the standard is formulated as follows: “In every residential apartment unit, it is necessary to provide a balcony with a minimum clear width of 1.25 meters and a minimum useful floor area of 3.75 square meters.”
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the survey, it can be concluded that, firstly, a small percentage of the current balconies have the required area for proper use by residents. This is due to the small and unsuitable dimensions of these balconies. To be more precise, in one-bedroom residential units, only 16%, in two-bedroom units, 11%, and in three-bedroom units and more, 25% of the balconies can accommodate a table and chairs for two people, a gas boiler, and a barbecue. This finding is in line with the findings of researchers who, based on their qualitative research, have introduced inadequate dimensions of balconies as one of the main reasons for the inefficiency of balconies in apartment housing in Iran today. Secondly, it will have a relatively better perspective for application in the Rasht development control system, if regardless of the number of bedrooms in a residential unit, the minimum standard dimensions and area for balconies is formulated as a minimal two-person balcony. Currently, the proportion of two-bedroom units with a minimal four-person balcony is only 7% of the total (compared to 11% for two-person balconies) and the proportion of three-bedroom units with a minimal six-person balcony is only 11% (compared to 25% for two-person balconies).

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: The transition from tradition to modernity, which began about a century ago in Afghanistan, has deeply affected the core of society and, consequently, its architecture and urban fabric. The planned housing pattern in Kabul has been shaped by Afghanistan’s historical and political events, which have, in turn, influenced the city’s social structure. It is crucial to examine the evolution of housing within the socio-political context of Afghanistan, especially in Kabul, which serves as a model for these changes and reflects the country’s future needs. To design housing that is both suitable and compatible with user requirements, it is essential to study and analyze the various factors that influence housing development. This research aims to explore the relationship between the architectural transformation of housing and the changes in the socio-political structure of society, while also analyzing the factors affecting the transformation of planned housing in Kabul from the 1960s to 2021.
Methods: The research paradigm is qualitative, utilizing a survey method, a questionnaire with a Likert scale, and exploratory factor analysis to examine the impact of socio-political factors on the planned housing pattern of Kabul City. Initially, the historical, political, and social contexts of Afghanistan were considered to identify the components affecting Kabul’s planned housing. These components include population, immigration, social interactions, social groups, family structure, education, security, social justice, and political factors. To assess these socio-political components and determine the key factors driving the transformation of planned housing in Kabul over the past six decades, a survey methodology was used. This involved a 40-question questionnaire with a Likert scale, followed by data analysis. The questionnaire was administered using SPSS software version 26. The KMO value for this data set is 0.521, and the Bartlett’s test value exceeds 95% confidence, confirming the appropriateness of factor analysis for this data set.
Findings: The exploratory factor analysis method was employed to extract ten factors from the variables in the questionnaire, with eigenvalues greater than one. These factors accounted for more than 76% of the cumulative changes. In this analysis, variables with factor loadings greater than 0.4 were placed under the factor with the highest numerical value of factor loadings. The indicators placed under each factor and their conceptual analysis were used to determine the factor’s name, based on the factor’s common characteristics. The exploratory factor analysis of the socio-political components affecting planned housing development in Kabul city over the past six decades indicates that social interactions, internal politics, education and training, housing planning, social trends, social system, women and family, population decline, foreign policy population movement are the most significant factors influencing housing development.
Conclusion: The results of the research indicate that social interactions have had the greatest impact (21%) on the architectural evolution of planned housing in Kabul over the past six decades. The research findings reveal that key factors influencing planned housing in Kabul over the past decades include Afghanistan’s domestic policy (10.1%), education and training (8.5%), housing planning (8.5%), social trends (6.2%), the social system (5.5%), the role of women and family (4.7%), population decline (4.3%), foreign policy (3.9%), and population displacement (3.3%), among other factors. The impact of these factors has fluctuated significantly over time. The majority of changes in housing occurred during the last two decades, which coincided with the period of the Islamic Republic. In contrast, the impact on the planned housing construction process was negative during the period of the Islamic State and the period of the Islamic Emirate. The growth of urbanization in Kabul has increased significantly during the last two decades, with the population of the city increasing sixfold during this period. This has led to a corresponding increase in the construction of settlements, residential complexes, institutional and planned apartments, and high-rise buildings. Many of these constructions have been made in imitation of non-native and foreign examples without consideration of the social and cultural characteristics of the society. Additionally, the examination of the patterns of traditional and planned housing in Kabul City reveals that the aforementioned factors have led to alterations in architectural indicators, including housing typology, architectural style, mass and space ratio, spatial diversity, access method, gender-specific space, interior space organization, communication, horizontal and vertical circulation, architectural decorations and details, facades, materials, and techniques.

Abstract In the recent century, due to the reduced energy consumption and excessive use of non-renewable resources in the building sector, passive solar heating is one of the architectural design strategies for efficient energy use. Trombe wall and Greenhouse are the most important passive systems. This project, by conducting field-laboratory studies, evaluated the energy consumption in five different models from the combination of a Trombe wall a the Greenhouse with a chamber in the first and second six months of the year in the cold climate of Ardabil city. In this research, the idea is not to consume, but to use green energy and minimize energy consumption through the absorption of renewable energy in the building, in this regard; architectural design can play a very important role. This research is semiexperimental and uses a simulation research method. In order to achieve the goals of the project, the Design Builder software has been used to analyze the conditions. According to the studies, it is realized that with the installation of the Trombe wall with window and adding shading to the southern side of the building, the average temperature will be 20/67°C in the winter and 22/84°C in summer, and the comfort
temperature will be 18-22°C in all months of the year. We can also receive a enough daylight during the day and we can achieve environmental sustainability and reduce costs apart from achieving comfort in the environment, and reducing non-renewable energies.

Abstract Analyzing the spatial features of Islamic-Iranian cities has been a dominant mode in studies related to urban history in Iran. The research investigates the socio-political structure of Iran after the Safavid dynasty up to the Constitutional reform in order to get a better understanding of different influential factors in governing cities. This research offers an alternative way of reading Islamic-Iranian cities through which urban space becomes a reflection of power relation and interaction between different institutions involved in urban government. Starting with introduction of state-society structure in pre-modern Iran, the article suggests three institutions that are directly involved in urban government. These three institutions are: the institution of the sovereign (Nahad-e- Hakemiatن, the institution of shari’a (Nahad-e Mazhab), and the institution of custom (Nahad-e-Urf) corresponding respectively to the state, religion, and communal affiliations. The negotiation and interaction between these three institutions were fundamental for maintaining secutiy, stability, public morality and social welfare of inhabitants in one coherent urban system. Accordingly, the produced space in traditional Iranian cities was a result of collective interaction between the state’s authority, customs, and religious culture realized in different functional zones of cities which are politico-administrative zone of citadel (arg), socio-economical zone of bazar and semi-autonomous zone of residential neighbourhoods.

Abstract Urban public spaces, as an inclusive realm, are the spacefor the presence of all users. Despite this, several groups like women due to physical and social factors, are marginalized in this space. Therefore, this article intends to explore the issue of gendered space and define the different aspects of these spaces in the neighborhood scale.The hypothesis of this research has its root in the existence of a meaningful relation between structural and non-structural aspects of urban space and gendered space, which differs within various cultures. Analyzing the theories of gendered space shows that these kinds of spaces are made as the results of gendered activity and representation of space function. And these two criteria lead to the gendered space occupation, gendered time occupation, and gendered function-behavior occupation. In this article structural semiotics and post-structural semiotics were used to examine the different aspects of gendered space. A traditional neighborhood in Tehran –Imamzadeh Ali Akbar in Chizar neighborhood- was chosen as the case study of this research in order to investigate the representation of space and gender relation. Through semiotic method, the signifiers, the signified, and different codes were extracted through analyzing the analyze unit – which was the narrations of 30 women of the neighborhood space. The results of the analysis shows that the space within the house and its private territory is a secure feminine space, and the outside space is a masculine space. In other words, physical codes, besides functional codes (gendered activity) are in direct relation to the socio-cultural codes (representation of space function) and create nonappropriated spaces for women. Therefore, the markedness of space indicates various territories for presence and activity of women and men in urban spaces. This means that women’s attitude towards their identity (from an individual, family, and social aspect) is due to the gendered space, and the dominated ideology and myth-making of a Traditional Woman.

Abstract house is an environment for the formation of social activities to satisfy a part of physical and mental requirements. By observing the contemporary design construction industry, it is easy to notice the absolute ignorance toward behavioral, cultural and residential patterns of users. By considering this problem, the main purpose of this paper is to emphasize on the role of behavioral patterns, lifestyle and user’s culture in their housing patterns as one of the most important tools of understanding the behavior of residents. In addition, due to the changes in the lifestyle and human’s needs, the housing patterns
have also evolved and have resulted in new spatial arrangements. This research examines the changes in housing pattern and people’s lifestyle in “Maragheh” over time Zand era to today. In this article methodology of research in literature review section is descriptive-analytical method and in field studies by qualitative method, 32 houses were reviewed and interviewed with fifty inhabitants, a semi-structured questionnaire and an anthropological questionnaire with interview analysis. The relationship of lifestyle to
body structure is explained. And results shows that for proper design houses in each area, we need to probe that area’s people’s lifestyle, behavioral patterns and daily and annual activities properly. Also probation of their housing patterns.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Objective and background: In recent decades, the study of spatial planning in general and “spatial structure” in particular has taken a special position in international references. The review of related theoretical texts published in recent decades shows great changes in this area. Most of the research has reviewed and scrutinized the spatial structure in the theoretical literature and international empirical research (Parr, 2013; Meijers, 2005; Davoodi, 2003; Guillain et al., 2006; Cao, 2016; Gebhardt, 2016; Goletz, 2016). In national references, new concepts and foundations have been explored in the field of spatial structure in particular and spatial planning in general. On the one hand, the diversity and variety of research conducted in this field in national references, the contradictory results obtained from some of the research, and the lack of a single finding may imply the uselessness of the conducted research and the waste of time and money. On the other hand, the results confuse some scientific societies and theorists, policymakers, planners, and decision-makers. Therefore, a meta-study approach is used to remove such conditions in research methods and their revision process. By using a meta-study, the present study aims to review the national research in the field of spatial structure to identify and examine theoretical and scientific gaps and address the strengths of research. Finally, by combining and summarizing the studies on spatial structure, the theoretical frameworks of reviewed studies are explained.
Method: The present research is a developmental-applied study in terms of objective and includes quantitative and qualitative aspects in terms of type and nature of data. According to the characteristics of the research topic, this study is descriptive-analytical research carried out using a meta-study research method.
Finding: The content analysis of the reviewed studies showed that in these studies, four approaches had been applied to analyze the spatial structure. They include hierarchical, systemic, relational-synergistic, and contextual approaches. There are also three perspectives on “spatial structure”. The origin of these perspectives is rooted in the areas addressed in the theoretical foundations of studies. In studies on topics such as “monocentric, polycentric and scattered patterns”, the perspective on “spatial structure patterns” was applied to analyze the spatial structure. In studies on topics such as “centralized, decentralized, scattered, compact, random, sprawl, fragmented and leapfrog patterns”, the perspective on “spatial structure development patterns” was applied. Those articles focusing on topics such as “linear, island, cluster, symmetrical, correlated, radial, sector, complex, porous patterns” have analyzed the spatial structure using the perspective on “form patterns of spatial structure.” Moreover, the analysis of studies showed that the confusion of topics and concepts has taken place in the field of spatial structure. In many studies, the concepts of spatial growth patterns and spatial form patterns have been used instead of spatial structure patterns, indicating a misunderstanding of key concepts in the field of spatial structure. The analysis of studies also showed that various factors and driving forces- internal factors including “backgrounds and contexts, economic, demographic, social dimensions and infrastructure” and external factors and drivers of development including “government policies and decisions- spatial planning policies, globalization - global processes and economic rivalries”- influence the formation and change of the spatial structure of cities and regions.
Conclusion: In the general review, it can be stated that the study of the spatial structure has become an important issue in Iran only in the last two decades. About 80% of these studies have been conducted in less than a decade, indicating the emergence of this concept in the spatial planning system of Iran. On the other hand, 87% of the studies have an applied-developmental nature, and only 13% have addressed basic concepts, indicating the poor scientific development of this concept in applied-developmental studies. Among the effects of this shortcoming, one can mention the low-quality and inadequacy of the theoretical foundations presented in the studies, which was observed in 42% of the reviewed studies, according to the present study results. Only 34% of the studies were evaluated well in terms of theoretical foundations. Some significant weaknesses identified in the qualitative evaluation of studies include less use of up-to-date and reliable references, the lack of proper coherence between the objectives and research questions and theoretical foundations, and improper use of theoretical concepts and foundations. There is also a particular weakness in focusing on the approaches. There is a lack of knowledge in the reviewed studies, and most of them have expressed related approaches and theories without having any theoretical knowledge. On the other hand, more than 65% of the studies have relied on a morphological approach rather than land use, functional, and combined approaches. Therefore, in future research, it is required to pay more attention to the development of theoretical and approach concepts, structures, and frameworks and analytical approaches to the spatial structure to fix existing gaps. Also, in the analysis of geographical distribution, it was found that most of the studies focused on Tehran metropolitan area and Tehran metropolis and other geographical areas have been less studied, indicating a weak balance in exploring the different geographical areas of Iran. Of the four spatial scales, 54% of studies were performed at urban and metropolitan scales, and researchers have less considered other spatial scales.

Abstract How citizens perceive and understand their surrounding environment depends on several dynamic and static contextual factors. Such a subjective and context-based understanding can create different emotions and feelings in people, which has created a new and adjunct approach toward studying spatial and temporal structure of the city. Investigating the relationship between built environment as a physical dimension and behavioral and emotional aspects of human has received much attention in recent studies, especially in urban planning and design studies, and has become an urgent issue in recent years. The purpose of theoretical, empirical, and applied researches in this field is generally enhancing the quality of life in city through studying a new layer that focuses on emotional-behavioral aspects of individuals. This emotional-subjective attitude toward space and its impact on the individual’s behavior in space has become important and has been utilized in recent years under the title of “urban emotions” approach, as an interdisciplinary field. Therefore, the present study aimed to introduce the approach and research area of “urban emotions” and sought to examine the importance and application of this layer in the field of urban development as well as studying vacancies in this area, and providing suggestions for future studies. Thus, this was done by referring to library resources and reviewing more than 50 published studies consisting of basic theories on the subject, theories of intellectuals in the field of urban development, and recent projects and researches generally related to the last five years, through descriptive-analytic method and using library resources. 
The results showed that the studies in this area can be divided into two categories of theories and basic studies and new studies initiated by Christine Nold (2009). The basic view mostly focuses on effective environmental factors in a qualitative and highly general way based on traditional methods of emotion measurement, and is mostly focused on environmental psychology and landscape design areas, which has less influenced the area of urban design and urban development. But in recent years, the emergence of new methods of measuring emotions in the field of medical sciences, psychology, and computer sciences has provided the possibility of more precise studies in the field of environmental design. New researches (in the last 5 years) in terms of frequency include four domains: 1) focused on emotion measurement; 2) new methods of emotion measurement; 3) investigating the factors affecting emotion in the environment; and 4) applications of emotion. However, these studies mostly focus on emotion measurement in urban environments and emotion measurement methods, and few studies have also examined the factors affecting emotion in the environment and its application in the field of urban development as a pilot. Therefore, based on ongoing studies in the field of emotion monitoring methods, it has become possible to review and study the theories which are more basic, more applied, and exclusive in the field of urban environment. Also, review of basic theories and recent studies in the field of urban emotions showed the importance of the issue in the field of urban development. Despite the importance and application of this interdisciplinary field in urban studies, the scientific potentials of this new approach in all diverse aspects of urban use and analysis have not yet been explored which requires more precise and extensive evaluation in urban sciences. According to the conducted studies and its adaptation to different areas of urban study, the most important areas of application of this new layer can be: 1) mental health area, 2) happy city and pleasant urban spaces area, 3) Attachment to place area, and 4) area of collaborative urban planning and smart city. Also, evaluation and measurement of the built environment, evaluation of the psychological effects of a plan before its implementation, and providing new citizen-centered designing and planning opportunities are among the benefits of applying the subject in the field of urban development. Overall, the results showed that in recent years, the area of “urban emotions” has opened up a new meta-human approach to analysis and examination of dynamic interactions in time, space, and perception and emotions of human, especially in urban planning and designing processes. “Urban emotions” has proposed a human-centered approach as a mediator between research fields such as geo-informatics, computer science, computational linguistics, sensor technology, citizenship sciences, and spatial planning. The main purpose was to produce a layer of new information that visualizes the measured spatial emotions. This visualization allows for concluding about humans behavior in urban environments and creates a new citizen-centered perspective in designing and planning process. Over the past few decades, new advances have made the use of new methods and technologies possible. However, scientific potential of this process has not been fully exploited, and the possibility of using it for innovative analysis and simulation needs to be widely evaluated in urban sciences. These new data and information layers can provide new insights into the development of intrinsically complex and dynamic physical and social structures of urban environments. It can be used in the field of urban development and can be generalized and used in other related areas such as public health, traffic management, security, tourism, and more.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: The psychological restoration is considered one of the important psychological variables among those who refer to urban parks. In Iran, this category has received less attention. Besides, the level of psychological restoration of visitors in different natural environments is not the same. In this research, the rate of psychological restoration in various areas of urban parks are compared and a valid, and indigenous tool to measure the rate of psychological restoration was introduced (Restoration Scale Localized Questionnaire: Rs) in these environments.
Methods: The strategy of this research was logical reasoning, and its tactic to evaluate the spatial configuration of urban parks was the Space Syntax method. In the space configuration analysis section, using the Space Syntax method, the parameters of connectivity, integration, depth, control, line length, entropy and intelligibility of the entire park bed (and especially in selected points) were analyzed. Moreover, in the section of measuring the mental state of citizens referring to urban parks, standardized and localized RS (restoration scale: The main output of the present research is also the introduction of this localized standard questionnaire in Persian language), and finally using statistical analysis to express the relationship between the spatial classification and psychological restoration of citizens (In fact, the park consists of two main geometric and organic parts, and in a number of points of both parts, the state of configuration variables and psychological restoration of citizens using a localized questionnaire was calculated and investigated).
Findings: The results of this research showed that the parameters of connectivity, integration, entropy, control, line length and intelligibility in geometric part are more favorable than organic part, but the depth of organic part is more than geometric part. The results of the mean comparison test also showed that the variables of depth and intelligibility have significant differences between the two geometric textures, but no significant difference was observed between the other parameters of the spatial configuration in the two textures. In addition, the results of the mean comparison test show that the depth of the geometric texture is lower than the depth of the organic range, but the intelligibility of the geometric texture is higher than the organic texture. Also, the analysis of relationship between spatial configuration and restoration due to the coefficient of determination showed that 46.8% of the changes in (psychological) restoration variable are related to spatial configuration variables and the restoration changes are mostly related to depth, control and entropy variables. The results of investigating the effect of spatial configuration variables on each dimension of mental (psychological) restoration also showed that 38.9 percent of the changes in the emotional dimension are related to spatial configuration variables, and this relationship is generally significant, more detailed analyzes of this parameter prove it that the relationship between intelligibility and line length variables was not significant and these variables did not have the ability to predict the restoration variable and the restoration changes are mostly related to connectivity, depth, control and entropy variables. Also, 38.3% of cognitive dimension changes are related to spatial configuration variables, and this relationship is significant. More detailed analysis of this parameter also revealed that the relationship between connectivity, control, intelligibility and line length variables was not significant and these variables could not predict the restoration variable, and the restoration changes are mostly related to the depth and entropy variables. In addition, 43.5 percent of the changes in the behavioral dimension are related to spatial configuration variables, and this relationship is significant, more detailed analyzes of this parameter also show that the relationship between connectivity, control, intelligibility and line length variables was not significant and these variables could not predict the restoration variable, and the restoration changes are mostly related to the depth and entropy variables.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this research (and supplementary studies), the design of parks with secluded and uncrowded spaces, and minimal disorder in the layout (in terms of spatial aspects), which minimize visual (and motor) control and permeability, is recommended for the improvement of the spatial configuration of city parks. This is proposed to enhance the mental health of park visitors. This suggestion is directed towards researchers, decision-makers, and urban planners and designers in urban design and landscape.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Creative urban development not only contributes to social improvement, but also fosters economic development and citizen welfare. Urban branding is a tool to promote cultural and social values, catalyze economic development, and facilitate competition among cities for investment, tourism, and global events. In this increasingly competitive environment, urban branding helps to attract visitors, capital, and residents, various economic benefits, social cohesion, and added value to cities as a whole. By emphasizing a city’s identity and local culture, branding ultimately improves the quality of life for its inhabitants. The Internet and communication technologies has ushered in a new era in the global economy, with media serving as an effective tool for marketing and advertising, significantly elevating a destination’s reputation and brand. Nowadays, the media’s critical task is to create ideas and mental images of facts. Tourism and its brand heavily rely on the relationships between stakeholders, and establishing, maintaining, and developing relationships is the key to success.
Gilan province, with many gastronomic capacities, successfully designated Rasht as its Gastronomy Creative City in 2015. While Rasht has held this title as Iran’s sole gastronomy creative city for the past five years, the city image as the center of the country’s gastronomic culture has remained under-promoted both nationally and internationally. This article seeks to evaluate the capacity of various media channels, encompassing both mass and social media, in the context of city branding. Urban management institutions have the opportunity to leverage these media platforms to introduce and promote the brand of Rasht as a creative gastronomic city, thereby accelerating the city’s economic development. This research aims to evaluate and analyze how effectively the creative city of Rasht has used media capacity at the national and international levels to raise awareness about itself and introduce the creative city of Rasht.
Methods: This study uses a descriptive approach to address research questions and is applied in terms of its objectives. Data was collected through surveys and document analysis. A questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale was employed to measure the media’s capacity to promote Rasht as a creative gastronomy city. The questionnaire comprises four sections (criteria): branding, social media, mass media, and media information quality (formation of destination image). The research population encompasses all residents, citizens of Rasht, and tourists who have visited the city at least once. A total of 395 online questionnaires were distributed and completed among Rasht’s residents, citizens, and tourists. The online questionnaire featured conditional questions to segment respondents based on their residence or travel status. SPSS software was used for quantitative analysis, and to verify the questionnaire’s reliability and internal validity, Cronbach’s alpha value was calculated, yielding a score of 0.914. Subsequently, Smart PLS3 software was employed to model and analyze the findings. 
Findings: The Friedman test was used, to rank and identify the essential criteria.. A significance level below 0.05 in the Friedman test affirms its validity and confirms the ranking of criteria impacting branding. Results reveal that the branding criterion, with an average score of 3.45, claims the top position, followed by media information quality, social media, and mass media with average scores of 2.62, 2.30, and 1.63, respectively. Then, using Smart PLS3 software, the findings were modeled and analyzed. The results highlight that “social media,” with a path coefficient of 0.361, emerges as the most influential factor in branding Rasht as a creative city. Within the social media sector, “endorsement by celebrities and social media influencers” brings in a factor of 0.784, signifying its substantial impact on Rasht’s branding. While the impact of mass media on branding Rasht is less promoted, it is essential to recognize that this criterion still holds potential for branding and promoting the city, provided that effective strategies and activities are implemented. 
Conclusion: City branding can only be achieved through the proper use of media and effective advertising. This study distinguishes between social and mass media. Broadcasting is the most important visual and audio mass media, but now social media has a more prominent role and capacity than traditional mass media in city branding. According to citizens and tourists, endorsements by celebrities play a pivotal role in shaping Rasht’s image on social media platforms. In today’s era, also known as the digital age, Internet communications play a significant role in people’s lives, so special attention to the Internet, advertising, and urban management investments in various social media can be a practical step in branding the Rasht city.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: The formation of the urban landscape, as a reflection of a city’s culture and identity, involves both objective and subjective dimensions. In recent years, urban planning in Iran has encountered difficulties in managing the urban landscape. The failure to implement urban projects effectively highlights the absence of control and visual guidance regulations, which serve as tools for urban policies, thereby complicating efforts to address urban landscape issues. Comprehensive research has not yet focused on identifying and ranking the semantic-identity challenges of Iran’s urban landscape. Although numerous studies have explored urban landscapes, a comprehensive approach to categorizing, prioritizing, and addressing these challenges has been largely overlooked, forming the basis for this research. The overall goal of this study was to identify and rank the challenges of Iran’s urban landscape based on expert opinions.
Methods: This research adopted a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative components, to thoroughly identify and prioritize the semantic-identity challenges of the urban landscape in Iran. A comprehensive and focused search was conducted across domestic and international databases, as well as reputable publications in landscape architecture, using relevant keywords such as “landscape,” “urban landscape,” “urban image” (visual aspect of landscape), and “historical and contemporary landscape.” A total of 256 articles were collected, and more than 40 domestic and international studies from the past decade were carefully selected for further analysis. Content analysis of these studies was performed to extract the semantic-identity challenges facing Iran’s urban landscape. The identified challenges were categorized using the “Trilogy Analysis model” for a more structured approach. In the third step, expert opinions were gathered by asking a sample group of professionals in fields related to urban landscape (urban planning, architecture, and landscape) to rank the challenges within each category. For ranking, the one-sample t-test and Friedman test were applied using SPSS 24 software. A total of 240 questionnaires were distributed online to experts using the snowball technique, and 118 were completed within seven days.
Findings: “Structural challenges” in the urban landscape primarily relate to urban governance and decision-making processes. These challenges include issues such as the failure to convert urban landscape development plans into actionable outcomes. A major contributing factor to this problem is the inefficiency of regulatory systems. In Iran’s urban planning system, the monitoring and evaluation aspects are often overlooked. Specifically, there are no proper criteria for visual control of the urban landscape, or they are neglected. Additionally, the lack of adjustment in protection programs for historical cities has resulted in significant changes in recent urban developments. In addressing the challenges in the “content and behavioral” sector, attention was also given to the behavior of urban landscape professionals and the general public. Limited public participation in Iran’s urban planning system has long been an issue. The absence of public involvement in the design phase leads to a neglect of the visual and perceptual aspects of the city in the minds of citizens, as well as the cognitive and semantic dimensions of projects. As a result, many urban landscapes fail to establish meaningful connections with users, contributing to a sense of placelessness and lack of identity in cities. Furthermore, a significant challenge in the urban planning system is the absence of a common language between the academic community, professionals, and urban managers, leading to ineffective communication between these groups.
The findings showed no significant differences between the averages. However, based on expert opinions and the one-sample t-test, the three contextual challenges with the highest averages were:
1. Crisis and chaos in the landscape of contemporary cities.
2. Transformation of the cityscape and the loss of balance in the city’s appearance.
3. The disconnection between the historical and contemporary landscapes in cities.
In the category of “structural challenges,” inefficient oversight systems and the lack of evaluation and assessment in implemented plans are identified as the most critical issues. Challenges related to the behavior of professionals and citizens in the urban landscape fall under the content (behavioral) branch. Among these, the disregard for the concept of meaning is a key factor contributing to the phenomenon of placelessness in cities. This issue highlights the need for urban management to focus on the perceptual and visual aspects of citizens, which can be addressed through active public participation in creating the landscape.
Conclusion: This research, which specifically addresses the challenges within a particular area of the urban planning system, will be more effective in resolving issues in this field and can more purposefully determine the path of future actions in the urban landscape. Despite the abundance of studies focused on the urban landscape, a comprehensive examination of the semantic-identity challenges of the urban landscape, addressing both the objective and subjective aspects, has not been sufficiently explored. The findings of this research can be valuable and the results indicate that the three-part classification of 1) content (behavioral) challenges, 2) structural challenges, and 3) contextual challenges ranked in order of importance from first to third. To tackle the issues and challenges of the urban landscape, priority should be given to addressing “behavioral challenges.” Conversely, contextual challenges, such as the lack of sufficient knowledge in the landscape field or the adaptation of global guidelines to local ones, rank last in importance.

Abstract The capacity of buildings to use solar radiance to supply their energy needs via absorbing sun-light energy through the outer envelope makes it so vital to have a substantial consideration to the design of buildings’ shell as an energy-efficient element. The amount of electrical energy output of a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) relates to various factors such as solar incidence of its platform, optimum orientation of building toward the Sun, form of its shell as well as the efficiency of photovoltaic modules used within the system as electricity generator. From mentioned factors, the form of a building envelope can intensify the yield of a BIPV system by being integrated to solar plain concentrators which known as CPV system. This research tries to monitor the effect of reflection on BIPV envelope efficiency improvement by doing an experimental test in which the increase of the output of a south-oriented photovoltaic module under a flat mirror reflection has been evaluated. The research concludes an improvement equal to 13.19% in output power by adding the flat mirror on the east/west sides of the module and 11.19% increase for a flat horizontal mirror perpendicular to the PV on southern façade. On the other hand, the research recommends the angle of 26 degrees inclination from the east and west for mirrors to reach to their best solar situation in which there is no shading effect on the PV surface. Moreover, results of this research shows that the best proportion for a rectangular mirror as a reflector is when its depth to height ratio is 0.5 or D/H=0.5. The research is categorized as an applied research which uses experimental-descriptive method to reach the goals.