Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: The history of Iranian-Islamic architecture is filled with remarkable and magnificent works created by artists who utilized geometric knowledge and principles. Geometry served as a common language among architects in designing these structures. With advancements in technology and new geometric knowledge, innovative design methods have emerged. Parametric architecture is one of the approaches that enables the exploration of relationships between masses and complex shapes within computer environments. Experts suggest that these architectural works stem from the application of parametric design thinking throughout the planning and design processes. However, examining these principles within architectural knowledge is challenging due to the diversity across various fields, including functional and structural and other aspects. This research focuses on this process as it pertains to temporary residences, such as caravanserais.
Methods: This research relies on bibliographic studies and computational methods to identify the geometric and mathematical principles used in the design of notable suburban caravanserais. The data are analyzed using reliable software that algorithmizes and simulates parametric problems, visually displaying results to support the hypothesis.
Findings: The findings indicate that artists skillfully controlled and recreated design principles according to the existing criteria and conditions of their time, resulting in remarkable works that fulfilled contemporary needs. The design process explored in this study is confined to producing square or rectangular plans, though this constraint can be adjusted by parameterizing the initial information to generate polygonal plans such as hexagons or octagons. This approach also elucidates several hexagonal and octagonal designs in Iranian-Islamic caravanserais, which closely resemble quadrilateral plans in spatial organization. A notable characteristic of Islamic architecture is its multi-functionality; Iranian-Islamic architecture produced “complete building forms” adaptable for various purposes. A single building plan might serve for both fortresses and caravanserais, often making it difficult to differentiate them by plan alone. Thus, the parametric framework established in this project can apply not only to caravanserai buildings but also to desert castles, palaces, and schools with similar designs. It is important to note that the diversity of Islamic architectural types means that the parametric order developed here does not claim to encompass all caravanserais. Rather, it offers a design approach rooted in Iranian-Islamic principles, analyzed through Grasshopper software using three case studies.
Conclusion: Parametric design is a design paradigm where the relationships between elements dictate the reproduction of geometry and complex forms, allowing the outcome of a system or equation to be modified by adjusting specific parameters and variables. The results indicate that this rule-based methodology aligns with the geometric design production techniques of Iranian-Islamic architecture. By introducing constituent parameters and employing algorithmization in Grasshopper software, the parameterization of the overall plans for four-balcony out-of-town caravanserais is validated. This conclusion can extend to caravanserai plans and similar building functions, such as schools, in other architectural styles, including double-sided and polygonal designs. Furthermore, the significant advancements in architectural technology allow designers to leverage the rich knowledge of historical architecture using contemporary programming languages. Consequently, applying parametric architecture principles and tools like Grasshopper enables programming based on crucial parameters that influence the creation and development of valuable architectural works. The principles and rules governing algorithm creation are derived from the knowledge of Iranian-Islamic architectural design, allowing for the development of algorithms in parametric language through the analysis of caravanserai plans.