Journal of Iranian Architecture & Urbanism(JIAU)

Abstract The changes in urban life today has resulted in the less importance or complete loss or of many known urban spaces and social and cultural functionalities. These changes are mostly by disorientation, lack of identity and disaffiliation of citizens in social activities, whereas urban identity reinforces the link between city and citizens, and brings them special social characteristics, through the association of memories and sense of belonging in them. One way to accomplish this matter is utilizing the capacity of historic evocative buildings in the cities. Based on this, the purpose of this research is the feasibility study for the revival of urban space around the historical bridges of the city with emphasis on citizen’s identity and collective memory. The case study for this research is urban space around the historic bridge of Langroud city. In this research, effective factors in creating evocative urban space for citizens were evaluated by a questionnaire. The research
method presented in this paper was survey method using a case study. For this reason, two kind of questionnaires has been used and the reliability of each ones has been verified by calculating Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient. Also, the questionnaires were analyzed by SPSS software. The results indicate that elements such as meaning, structure and activity have the highest impact respectively, in the revival of urban space and creating sense of belonging around the historic bridge of Langroud city. The final result is that structural planning around historic bridges should be done in order to improve appropriate social and cultural activities, and give meaning to the city. It also indicates the role these valuable elements have in creating evocative urban space and identity for citizens.

Abstract

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 Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: Fortifications such as city walls and citadels allowed people to settle in their land and protected their lives from natural and human threats. The history of sedentism in the central plateau of Iran dates back to 10,000 years ago. In addition to this historical context, there are still surviving vernacular urban and architectural spaces in Iran. Meybod is a desert city located in the central plateau of Iran, where human settlement might have begun during the Medain period. The city was fortified with a city wall and a citadel known as Narin Castle. The advent of modern streets and the loss of significant parts of the city walls in recent decades have endangered the integrity and values of these structures. Meybod city wall and Sharistan are also facing these challenges. To ensure effective conservation, a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of urban and architectural heritage is necessary, along with an explanation of the changes that have occurred over time. Therefore, the research focuses on the following problem: “How have the developments and transformations of Meybod Sharistan influenced the evolution and changes of Meybod city wall?” The following objectives are addressed:
• Understanding the transformations of Meybod city wall in interaction with the changes in Sharistan to form its current structure.
• Identifying the position of Meybod Sharistan and Meybod city wall in different historical periods.
Methods: This research employed a case study approach and a descriptive-analytical method. Bibliographic research was conducted by examining historical written sources, national and international documents and charters, as well as urban and regional development plans of Meybod. Other data sources, including aerial photographs, were also considered. The results of this research were presented through schematic illustrations and simulations of the current and initial conditions using 3D modeling software.
Findings: Meybod city wall is an integrated architectural complex within an enclosed environment. It is built from two main vernacular earthen materials: Khesht (adobe) and Chineh (mudbrick). Its form and layout follow the topography of the land, defining the boundaries of Sharistan between two elevated terraces to the south and north. 
Three of the four main gates, portions of the ditches, and 11 towers of the complex remain intact. In the south, the city wall merges with Narin Castle (the citadel) through a three-layered rampart. The city wall also features unique elements. One is Bagh Khandagh (ditch gardens), where the former ditches have been repurposed as gardens and farmland. Another distinctive feature is the Darbands, small gates that facilitate passage through the walls to the ditch gardens outside the city wall of Sharistan. The transformations of the city wall and Sharistan are categorized into distinct time periods. Based on the earliest reliable evidence of its foundation, the categorization begins with the Sassanian period:
1. Pre-Islamic Era to the 14th century (Sassanid Period): Sassanid cities were characterized by a citadel (Narin Castle) and city walls, which served as living areas for the ruler and high social classes, while lower classes lived outside the walls. The first foundation of the city wall was likely established during this period. The introduction of Islam to Iran led to the collapse of the Sassanid social hierarchy, and all social classes began living within the city walls of Sharistan, which included the citadel (Narin Castle), a Bazar (market), and the Jame Mosque. The city wall underwent significant restoration due to the Mongol invasion, and a northern gate was likely constructed during this time.
2. 14th century to the early 18th century (Muzaffarid Period to the Early Qajar Period): During the Muzaffarid period, the city’s importance increased due to its strategic location on the route from northern to southern Iran. As a result, it remained fortified, and the Kasnava gate was likely built. After the Muzaffarid period, the importance of the city wall gradually declined, although its conservation continued.
3. 18th century to 1925 (Qajar Period): During the Qajar period, modern concepts such as private property rights were introduced to Iran, which led to investment in real estate. Consequently, the city expanded northward, with ditch gardens and Darbands (small gates) created, along with the construction of private towers. The defensive role of the complex diminished, and the northern gate was replaced with a Sabat (an arched walkway or corridor).
4. 1925 to 1979 (Pahlavi Period): Urban planning concepts from the modern era were introduced to Iran. The first modern streets were built, disrupting the traditional urban fabric. City walls became obstacles to urban development, and the first street in Meybod was imposed, dividing the city into eastern and western sections.
5. Post-1979 (Islamic Republic of Iran): Modern construction and street development continued until the 1990s, during which the city walls were still regarded as an obstacle to development. The establishment of local NGOs, the inclusion of the historic city on heritage lists, and the development of urban plans that took heritage values into account led to restoration and conservation efforts. However, many of these activities were carried out with some errors.
Conclusion: The changes and transformations can be divided into three stages:
1. Formation and Expansion: This phase spans from the initial construction to the eve of the Qajar period, reflecting a close symbiosis between the city wall and the city itself. During this phase, the city wall served both as a protector and a boundary, while continuous expansion, repair, and construction took place.
2. Completion: The developments in this phase are attributed to the Qajar period, characterized by a situation in which the function of the complex was relatively preserved. As a result, the city wall continued to protect the city limits. Both the city and the city wall adapted to new needs and experienced internal growth.
3. Decline: This phase coincides with the arrival of modern urban development trends in the post-Qajar period. The original function of the city wall was lost, and it was no longer intertwined with the city. Consequently, it became an obstacle to urban growth. This paved the way for modern constructions and the demolition of parts of the city wall by the 1990s. Eventually, a shift in perspective occurred, and the city wall began to be recognized as a heritage site with historical and cultural significance.

Abstract Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: The first condition for perceiving vision and space is light. Therefore, in the art of architecture, light is one of the essential components presented alongside other elements such as structure, order, materials, and color. Moreover, light is a fundamental element of architecture and environmental design, and urban lighting has significant potential to enhance the efficiency and well-being of people. In addition, it can contribute to the redesign of urban spaces, environmental architecture, and the urban landscape while providing beauty and security at night. Considering the importance of lighting in urban spaces and buildings, the purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of lighting techniques used for historical buildings in Tabriz on the quality of the urban landscape. Historical monuments are of great importance in cities because of their unique character and cultural identity. Therefore, appropriate lighting methods and techniques, as a complement to historical spaces and monuments, can be influential factors in strengthening identity and the sense of place. Furthermore, improving the quality of urban spaces through lighting increases the presence of citizens and, consequently, enhances the vitality and dynamism of the space. Accordingly, the present study, while examining lighting techniques applied to historical monuments in Tabriz, seeks to answer the following question: What effect do lighting techniques for historical monuments in Tabriz have on the quality of the urban landscape?

Methods: The research method adopted in the present study is a mixed-method (qualitative–quantitative) approach with an analytical–interpretive orientation. In the first stage, a qualitative content analysis was conducted to examine the lighting of historical monuments in Tabriz and compare it with successful international examples through documentary studies and field observations. Content analysis is a qualitative research method that focuses on identifying, analyzing, and interpreting patterns of meaning within qualitative data. In this method, the concept of content or theme serves as the central analytical element. Moreover, content represents the most meaningful unit of analysis and refers to the specific meaning derived from a phenomenon, word, sentence, or paragraph. The historical monuments examined in Tabriz include the Blue Mosque, Saheb-al-Amr Mosque, Arg-e Alishah, and Saat Square. These sites were selected because they represent different categories of historical buildings (religious, governmental, and service-related), have comparable successful international counterparts, and already possess completed lighting designs. To evaluate the effectiveness of historical monument lighting patterns on urban landscape quality—including enhancing beauty and visual appeal, organizing the visual environment, strengthening urban identity and image, and improving readability and landmark recognition—a quantitative approach employing the logarithmic regression coefficient was used. Data were collected from managers, officials, and architectural experts because of their professional knowledge in lighting and urban landscape design. Since the size of the statistical population was unknown, the Cohen method was applied at a 95% confidence level to determine the sample size. Accordingly, 90 participants were selected using the snowball sampling technique.

Findings: The findings indicate that the lighting of historical buildings in Tabriz, implemented in recent years using various techniques such as uplighting, surface lighting, and direct lighting, has enhanced environmental quality and the visual perception of these buildings. Furthermore, the lighting has contributed to increasing beauty and visual appeal, improving legibility and landmark recognition, organizing the visual environment, and creating a positive urban identity and image. Therefore, the use of diverse and integrated lighting techniques not only highlights the architectural details and distinctive features of historical buildings but also improves the overall quality of the urban landscape.

Conclusion: Urban landscape lighting is a comprehensive system that integrates the illumination of streets, buildings, urban furniture, traffic signals, and digital display screens. In addition to supporting urban activities and functions during nighttime, it plays a significant role in enhancing security, comfort, and the visual attractiveness of urban environments. Among the key responsibilities of urban designers and architects is the effective lighting of historical monuments, which represent the cultural identity, heritage, and symbolic landmarks of a city. The results of this study indicate that the lighting of historical monuments in Tabriz is in a relatively favorable condition. It has contributed not only to improving nightlife, security, and visual quality but also to enhancing beauty and visual appeal, increasing readability and landmark recognition, organizing the visual environment, and strengthening a positive urban identity and image. However, the findings also reveal that some buildings are illuminated using uniform lighting principles regardless of their architectural characteristics, and that users’ preferences have not been sufficiently considered in the lighting design process.
Accordingly, the following recommendations are proposed to achieve more effective lighting patterns for the historical buildings of Tabriz:
- Evaluation: Assess the existing lighting conditions by analyzing visual characteristics such as brightness, contrast, and shadow.
- Research: Review the historical background of each site and establish a timeline of architectural changes, social contexts, and previous lighting interventions.
- Classification: Classify monuments according to their architectural and functional characteristics and apply appropriate combinations of lighting techniques (e.g., uplighting, downlighting, surface lighting, and spotlighting).
- Technical considerations: Select suitable lighting sources with emphasis on aesthetic quality, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

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Abstract The aim of this study is to prepare a proposed algorithm for computer simulation and determine the proper angle of dynamic exterior shades during the day. The control of the dynamic shade is based on internal temperature. By repeating internal temperature calculations in each time phase, The algorithm compares the results with the defined criterion temperature, and chooses the optimal result. Numerical finite difference is the method used for thermal building’s calculations. In the construction of the zone numerous nodes are placed through each fabric component and the heat balance equation for each node is discrete by Crank-Nicolson method. In order to analyze the performance of the dynamic shade, the obtained results have been compared with the fixed and no shade modes. 21 degrees Celsius was determined as comfort temperature and criteria temperature in the first analysis for controlling the dynamic shade. According to the results obtained from the first analysis, with the goal of receiving more solar radiation and improving the performance of the shade, 23 degrees Celsius was determined as control temperature in the second analysis. Based on the calculations done for a building with south transparent glazing in Tehran, the amount of thermal load for the month of December , for dynamic shade mode with control temperature of 23 degrees Celsius is 33 percent lower than the fixed shade mode. On the other hand, the maximum difference between internal and comfort temperature for dynamic and fixed shade mode is in order 2 and 4 degrees, thus the dynamic shade provides a better comfort condition and lower internal temperature fluctuation.

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