Journal of Iranian Architecture & Urbanism(JIAU)

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Throughout the history of human thought, numerous theories have emerged concerning the essence of architecture, its fundamental components, and the role and significance of each element. These theoretical perspectives have profoundly influenced how architecture is conceptualized, practiced, and taught. Dominant paradigms such as formalism and strict functionalism, for example, often reduce architecture to a purely visual or utilitarian construct—one that functions merely as a physical container for human activity. Such reductionist views tend to overlook the fixed and multidimensional nature of human beings, whose needs extend beyond the material to encompass emotional, sensory, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. As a result, these perspectives fall short of addressing the full richness of human experience and hinder architecture’s potential to contribute to human flourishing. Among the elements that have been neglected or insufficiently explored in many of these modern approaches is the concept of “geometry.” Far more than a technical or decorative tool, geometry has historically served as a foundational and generative principle in architecture—one that organizes space, creates harmony, and reflects deeper metaphysical realities. This research seeks to re-examine the role of geometry within the broader system of creation, and by extension, within architectural design, through the lens of Islamic philosophy and thought. By adopting this holistic and spiritually grounded framework, the study aims to uncover the true ontological and functional status of geometry in architecture. Ultimately, it aspires to contribute to a richer pedagogical and practical approach to architectural education and design—one that is aligned with the innate nature of human beings and supports a more meaningful, purposeful built environment.
Methods: Initially, the research examines the definition and position of geometry across various human schools of thought. Using an interpretive-analytical approach and authentic Islamic sources, the study identifies this concept and its place within the system of existence, including architecture, thereby shaping the theoretical framework of the research. Through logical reasoning, the roles of geometry in architecture are extracted from this theoretical framework. For a comprehensive understanding, the four causes of geometry in architecture are identified and examined through a case study of the “House of Kaaba,” a manifestation of divine architecture.
Findings: The indicate the following:
- Efficient Cause: Geometry organizes architectural elements into a unified whole for human use, aiming for the perfection of human life.
- Final Cause: Geometry conveys meaning aligned with the architectural function, guiding individuals towards worship and understanding.
- Material Cause: The element of “space,” which must possess specific characteristics and features in each building, proportional to its function and human perceptual powers.
- Formal Cause: The limiting and distinguishing aspects of space (such as floors, ceilings, and exteriors), which must be proportionate to the building’s function and intended meaning, leading to the creation of a unique internal and external volume, decorated with appropriate arrangements.
Conclusion: This research underscores the profound significance of geometry in the realm of architecture, particularly through the lens of Islamic thought. By exploring the theoretical foundations and practical applications of geometry, the study reveals its essential role as the primary generator and organizer of architectural elements. The identification of the four causes—efficient, final, material, and formal—provides a comprehensive understanding of how geometry shapes and enhances architectural design. The case study of the Kaaba exemplifies the divine and functional aspects of geometry, demonstrating its capacity to harmonize architectural elements, convey meaningful symbolism, and create spaces that cater to both human perceptual powers and spiritual needs. This holistic approach not only enriches the sensory and spiritual dimensions of human life but also offers a robust framework for contemporary architectural practice. Ultimately, this research advocates for a renewed emphasis on geometry in architectural education and design, promoting a more integrated and meaningful approach that aligns with the holistic nature of human existence.

Abstract Extended Abstract Background and Objectives: Water shortage is one of the basic problems of today’s world and it has various consequences in the supply of suitable water for living organisms and related environmental crises. Due to the lack of proper use of water resources by humans and due to changes in weather conditions, if this amount of water consumption continues for a long time, it can lead to the destruction of entire habitats. Although educational spaces have a smaller share in the city per capita, but paying attention to the approach of sustainable architecture in schools has a special place. The present study was conducted with the aim of identifying the components affecting the water efficiency index in the sustainability assessment system (LEED), studying how and the mesasure of the impact of each component and achieving a model for the water efficiency index in a semi-arid climate. In the “water efficiency” index, Lead investigated the components of:1- reduction of drinking water consumption in the site, 2- use of innovative technologies in the wastewater sector, 3- reduction of water consumption inside the building and 4- water consumption reduction process, and for compliance with each The item assigns a point. In total, 11 points from 110 total points in Leed belong to the “water use productivity” index components. The purpose of the “reduction of potable water consumption in the site component” is to limit or eliminate the use of potable water or other natural surface or underground water sources available on the site or around the project site for irrigation of the site. The reduction of drinking water consumption in the site is investigated in 2 options: option 1: 50% reduction in Potable water consumption for irrigation (2 points). option 2: Non-use or very little use of potable water in irrigation (4 points). The objective of the component “use of innovative technologies in the wastewater sector” is to reduce the production of wastewater and reduce the use of potable water while increasing the local aquifer reserve. Although the title of this component shows that it is related to sewage, in fact, the issues raised in it are somewhat broader and it addresses two solutions: option 1: The drinking water used to be transferred to the sewage system should be reduced by at least 50% using saving equipment in drinking water or non-potable water. option 2: At least 50% of the (used) water is purified on site according to the standards and then used on the site or purified to infiltrate the underground aquifers again. The purpose of “reducing water consumption in buildings” is to increase water use efficiency inside buildings in order to reduce the burden on urban water supply and sewage systems. 30% reduction in the use of potable water in the building leads to obtaining 2 points. A reduction of up to 35% brings an additional point, and a 40% reduction in potable water consumption is the final point. And The purpose of “water consumption reduction process” is to maximize water use efficiency inside buildings to reduce the load on urban water supply and sewage systems.
Methods: The theoretical basis of this research is using library documents and the research method is conducted through case study. In the research carried out, 160 schools worldwide from the BSK climate (semi-arid climate) according to the climate classification of the coupon and from the countries of America, Mexico, Spain, Turkey and China and from the four levels of Leed certification (platinum, gold, silver and certified) were selected based on the 2009 version of Leed. Then their information was collected and the points received in their Leed checklist were entered into SPSS 22 software for analysis with factor analysis method. Due to the fact that the current research has several subjects, therefore, the COMPUTE VARIABLE command was used to define a new variable and categorize the data based on it. Then, with the entry of information related to new variables, in AMOS software, these variables were converted into a model so that with its help we can obtain the relationship of the variables in the “water use productivity” index with each other. Also, with the help of the relationships obtained from this model, the importance and weight of each component in the indicators was determined, and this information helps us to analyze the data and find the results in the continuation of the research process.
Findings: The findings show that the three variables of using innovative water and wastewater technologies, reducing the consumption of drinking water in schools and increasing the efficiency of irrigation in the school grounds are effective in the water efficiency index. Also, the variable of using innovative water and sewage technologies is the most effective variable to increase water efficiency, respectively, has 71 and 54% of the impact is on reducing drinking water and irrigation systems consumption in schools. The purpose of using innovative technologies in the wastewater sector is to “reduce wastewater production and reduce drinking water demand while increasing local aquifer storage.” To reduce the production of wastewater and reduce the transfer of drinking water used to the wastewater, there are various strategies that can be used to reduce the production of sewage and consumption of drinking water. The most important strategies used in the study and review of these 160 schools are: 1- sewage treatment 2- using filtration systems 3- using solutions to reduce runoff 4- storm water management and 5- using water saving equipment. In the meantime, the solution to using water saving equipment has the most impact.
Conclusion: According to research, replacing low-consumption flash tanks with normal flash tanks has led to a 15% reduction in water consumption, and the gray water can be reused with a simple treatment for landscape and vegetation irrigation, flash tanks, and uses that do not require drinking water and by using alternative water sources such as absorbing well water, treated sewage and rain water, water needs can be met. Therefore, the use of water saving devices (such as washrooms, ambulatory washroom) or non-potable water (such as collected rainwater, recycled gray water, and on-site treated wastewater) decreases transfer drinking water consumption to the building’s wastewater. According to the results obtained from the present research, in the next step, it is possible to localize the methods of increasing “water productivity” by examining the laws, guidelines, regulations and design criteria in Iran.