Showing 58 results for Design
Pradyut Anand, Prashant Kumar,
Volume 32, Issue 3 (7-2022)
Abstract
The performance-based design (PBSD) begins with defining performance goals. Performance-based seismic design accurately predicts the structure's performance during an earthquake. Recognizing and analyzing the structure's performance capacity is critical in performance-based design. This project was to do a PBSD on a (G+10) RCC construction. The building is first studied and built in STAAD PRO. Then, it was imported into the ETABS 2019 program to do a more detailed analysis of the displacement-controlled pushover analysis. The ETABS yields the structure's performance point, story displacement, capacity spectrum, Story drift, and demand spectrum. After the original design, a nonlinear pushover analysis is done to find out how well the building can withstand earthquakes and whether or not the goal was met, as well. In this research, we looked at the seismic code IS 1893 (Part 1) and the concrete design code IS 456: 2000 in order to make sure the building was safe. After obtaining all of the results, the structure's performance was compared for the various scenarios investigated and the optimal combination was determined.
Masoud Shafiei-Dastjerdi, Azadeh Lak, Ali Ghaffari,
Volume 33, Issue 2 (4-2023)
Abstract
One of the main goals of the resilient discourse in the recent urban design literature has been creating resilient places. Urban resilience is defined by the URFs (urban resilience features) for operation and realization in various fields. Due to continuous urban developments, there is a need to revise URFs with a place-based approach. URFs addressed in literature are so diverse that placing them into one single general list creates many contradictions and ambiguities. To reduce or eliminate inconsistencies in the definition of URFs and the qualitative performance of each URF in delivering urban resilience, this paper justifies the key factors for ordering and classifying URFs. In this study, a systematic review of the literature on urban resilience was performed in five stages using the Scopus databases within the 1973-February 2020 period. Then, 16 URFs, using three guidelines based on the corresponding evaluation of place and resilience, were identified and classified into three groups: (1) the intrinsic (internal) characteristics of the constituent components of a resilient system, (2) the behavioral proxies (proactive/reactive) of a resilient system and (3) the resilience-reinforcing attributes of a system in relation to the external environment. This study can shed light on the proper definition of urban resilience and its operational URFs.
Sajjad Osan, Ahmad Hami, Manohar Mariapan,
Volume 33, Issue 2 (4-2023)
Abstract
Nowadays, global climate change makes urban planners and designers pay more attention to thermal islands to enhance thermal comfort conditions in cities. The present study aims to investigate the effects of evergreen and deciduous tree placement patterns, tree canopy height, and tree canopy diameter on the enhancement of ambient temperature and improvement of thermal comfort conditions. The ENVI-met model was used to replicate the research region and site. It was validated by comparing the outputs of the model with the values from field measurements. Finally, the recommended scenarios were simulated in the model to discover those scenarios with better performance in enhancing outdoor thermal comfort and temperature on days with low temperatures. At low-temperature situations, planting evergreen trees irregularly had a stronger impact on the improvement of thermal comfort (PMV) compared to deciduous trees. Furthermore, in all models, Populus nigra and Platanus showed the worst performance in boosting ambient temperature. Landscape designers and urban planners might use the findings to improve urban green space, construct sustainable cities, and enhance air temperature.
Farhad Ahmadnejad, Yaser Shahbazi, Mohsen Mokhtari Keshavar, Mahsa Zendeh Laleh, Sahar Hosseinpour, Neda Khalilikhoo,
Volume 33, Issue 2 (4-2023)
Abstract
For years, research on daylight in work environments with different climates has been important for researchers to distribute light evenly in the indoor space in order to create a healthy work environment and visual comfort. This study examines the effect of horizontal and vertical shading devices, the depth and distance of louvres on daylight with the aim of increasing DLA (daylight autonomy) for Abrisham tower in Tabriz, Iran. As input parameters the depth of louvres was considered 5 and 15 cm and their distance were considered 150 and 200 cm. Modeling was performed in Rhinoceros software and the Simulation was done in Grasshopper plugin to control the geometric parameters and with the help of ladybug and honeybee plugins. The multi-objective simulation tool, octopus was used to optimizing. Results show that vertical louvers caused more light reduction. Furthermore, the simulation effects of shaders parameter's include depth and distance being examined and analyzed, it seemed that the distance between louvers in this case and in Tabriz is more important variable and moreover, using reflective material or coating on louver’s surface as there are many weeks are overcasting theirs in Tabriz can help and improve internal light autonomy. The optimal cases that were obtained for north façade windows are horizontal louvres with a depth of 5 and a distance of 190 cm and vertical louvres with a depth of 15 cm and a distance 200 cm. In south facade are horizontal louvres with a depth of 13 and a distance of 161 cm and vertical louvres with a depth of 14 cm and a distance of 153 cm.
Dr. Mojtaba Pour Ahmadi, Elahe Yektan Rostami,
Volume 33, Issue 3 (8-2023)
Abstract
In the current study, an endeavor is undertaken to formulate specific recommendations for the design of facades pertaining to infill buildings situated in the proximity of valuable urban Qajar residences within the Mazandaran province. The conspicuous lack of such directives within the regulatory framework of this region is noteworthy. The imposition of guidelines pertaining to façade design is imperative to establish visual congruence between contemporary structures and historical Qajar edifices in the urban landscapes of Mazandaran province. The present investigation employs a comprehensive approach, integrating both the interpretive-historical strategy and the logical argumentation strategy. A scrutiny of 30 valuable urban Qajar residences in Mazandaran province is conducted, wherein their distinctive features are systematically classified under eight discernible categories. Subsequently, a conceptual framework is developed by leveraging Semes' design strategies model and drawing inspiration from Groat's theoretical framework. Concurrently, the practicalities inherent in Mazandaran's urban conservation system are taken into consideration. This conceptual framework serves as the foundation for the articulation of facade design recommendations, delineating acceptable design methodologies for its constituent elements. Within this framework, a concerted effort is exerted to advocate conservative strategies for the macro elements of facade design, juxtaposed with latitude for more abstract approaches when addressing the micro elements. It is noteworthy that the intentional opposition approach is deemed unsuitable. Ultimately, drawing upon typological analyses of the compiled samples and adhering to the established framework, a series of recommendations for facade design is proffered. This study serves as a foundational step toward the formulation of design guidelines tailored to the historic districts of Mazandaran.
Negar Maleki Sadeghi, S. Yahya Islami ,
Volume 33, Issue 4 (12-2023)
Abstract
Architecture, akin to other forms of art, often transcends mere functional considerations, striving to re-present reality in a manner that engages the senses and shapes the human psyche. The Iranian Garden, also known as the Persian Garden, holds a distinctive status in Iranian spatial and environmental design. Its meticulously balanced and structured amalgamation of natural and man-made elements has transformed the Iranian Garden into a global phenomenon, offering a uniquely nuanced portrayal of the world. This investigation delves into three specific Iranian gardens, aiming to elucidate how reality is re-presented within Iranian garden design to attain a transcendent experience. Utilizing a qualitative and interpretive analysis of contemporary theories addressing issues related to image and reality, this paper initially introduces three categories for representing reality—intensification, integration, and transformation—alongside two realms of experience: the corporeal and the mental. These modes of depicting and experiencing reality are subsequently explored within the context of three renowned Iranian gardens—Dolatabad Garden of Yazd, Fin Garden of Kashan, and Shazdeh Mahan Garden of Kerman. This examination serves to illustrate the diverse design solutions employed to re-present familiar reality to observers. The evaluation of these gardens involved on-site visits, personal immersion in the garden environments, and a reliance on existing documentation and theories regarding these spaces. The findings of this study reveal a sophisticated and adept utilization of architectural and spatial components in garden design. Through varied approaches to re-presenting familiar reality, these gardens craft an aesthetic experience that stimulates the senses and elevates both the intellect and the spirit. Such interpretations of the traditional Iranian Garden offer valuable insights for designers seeking to emulate the spatial qualities without resorting to the replication of familiar motifs and forms. It is anticipated that a deeper comprehension of how the Iranian Garden re-presents the familiar will guide future endeavors to adapt it for contemporary times, steering clear of deviations that might compromise its essential nature.
Reyhane Khaghanpour Shahrezaee, Fatemeh Mehdizadeh Saradj,
Volume 34, Issue 1 (1-2024)
Abstract
Architectural education at the undergraduate level primarily focuses on design studios, which are conducted through critique sessions. These sessions are crucial for fostering communication between tutors and students, making them a key component of architectural education. Despite the emphasis on visual presentation in various courses, verbal communication receives less attention. To address this gap, it is essential to explore knowledge centered on human communication and strategies for improvement. Rhetoric, a concept introduced by philosophers and literary scholars, forms the foundation of all human communication by focusing on persuasive techniques. This research investigates critique sessions in architectural design studios, particularly examining the communication between tutors and students within the framework of rhetorical knowledge. The goal is to enhance this communication by elucidating the critique session and the relationship between teacher and student. The research employs a combination of descriptive and analytical strategies, along with logical reasoning, to address two primary questions: "How can the critique session be defined as a rhetorical situation?" and "What are the persuasion techniques used at each stage of the architectural design studio?" By applying rhetorical situation theory and persuasive methods, the research presents techniques for each stage of the architectural design studio, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of critique sessions. The findings suggest that effective communication in these sessions relies on clear, coherent expression and logically presented criticisms and suggestions. This creates a persuasive context that facilitates mutual understanding. As a result, architectural students not only acquire design skills but also develop the ability to communicate convincingly and defend their designs effectively in various scenarios.
Bakhtiar Bahrami, Nasrin M. H. Nejad,
Volume 34, Issue 1 (1-2024)
Abstract
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently encounter sensory sensitivities in school settings that diverge from those experienced by adult stakeholders, such as parents, teachers, and professionals. This research examines the disparities and commonalities in spatial preferences between children with mild ASD and adult stakeholders, aiming to utilize these insights to guide the design of autism-friendly educational environments. Employing a two-phase mixed-methods approach comprising interviews and questionnaires, this study engaged 210 participants: 80 children aged 9-18 with ASD (14 in Phase 1 and 64 in Phase 2) and 130 adult stakeholders (32 in Phase 1 and 98 in Phase 2). Thematic analysis conducted in Phase 1 and factor analysis in Phase 2 identified several critical spatial factors, including stability and constancy, a calm and subdued atmosphere, prominent classroom views, spacious learning environments, familiarity and predictability, large classroom windows, and gradual exposure. While there were some areas of overlap with adult perspectives, notable differences highlighted the necessity of incorporating children's viewpoints in school design. Based on this premise, the study introduces an integrated model for designing autism-friendly schools informed by these findings. This model aims to propose strategies for creating learning environments that support the well-being and educational needs of children with ASD.
Amin Habibi, Romina Tafvizi, Mohammad Nikkar, Ehsan Sharifi,
Volume 34, Issue 2 (4-2024)
Abstract
Urban densities are prone to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, resulting in decreased outdoor thermal comfort for the growing urban populations in hot and dry climates. Canyon layout, surface materials, green cover, and ground moisture can alter the outdoor microclimates of urban canyons at the canopy layer. While the isolated impact of urban cooling strategies is researched extensively, the integration of these UHI mitigation strategies into design compositions for complex projects has yet to be thoroughly examined. This study explores the impact of six different design scenarios for the redevelopment of the entry canyon for the Afifabad garden in Shiraz during the hottest and coldest times of the last decade. The design scenarios include the final proposed and past layouts of the site, along with four interim scenarios introducing feasible compositions of greenery and cool surfaces.
The ENVI-met model of the site is validated by field measurement data from 2021, and then used to simulate all six scenarios for the hottest and coldest days of a typical year. The predicted mean vote (PMV) and physiological equivalent temperature (PET) values were calculated from the simulation results and evaluated to identify the most feasible and impactful design compositions. Findings indicate that high albedo pavements were not effective in isolation (scenario 4) and led to an increase in the mean radiant temperature (MRT). Street trees and vegetation were the most influential isolated measures, resulting in a 2.61°C variation in PET. The most impactful results were related to the combined effect of trees, turf, and cool surfaces, which resulted in up to an 11.3°C variation in PET due to the combination of appropriate greenery, shading over surfaces, and cool covers. Understanding the details of the impact of design configurations, when addressing heat stress adaptation in cities, enables the implementation of UHI mitigation strategies into feasible urban retrofit and regeneration projects.
Nasser Koleini Mamaghani, Parisa Izadpanah, Mahdiyeh Jafarnezhad Shahri,
Volume 34, Issue 2 (4-2024)
Abstract
In today's global market, products that meet users' emotional needs are more likely to succeed. Emotional design involves designers incorporating affective thought and user emotions to create a strong emotional connection between the user and the product. Culture plays a significant role in emotional design and user interaction. This study focuses on redesigning dinnerware based on Iran's tradition and cultural heritage. From the viewpoint of design parameters, five historical pottery periods, namely the Samanid, Seljuq, Ilkhanid, Timurid, and Safavid periods, were analyzed, and results were collected. A cultural design model was then created using Kano's questionnaire, which was distributed to thirty participants, both male and female, who were presented with questions related to the redesign of dinnerware. Kano's questionnaire included 16 questions about glazes, colors, patterns, and some of the design ideas used in the vessels from each historical period. A graphical image representing the outstanding pottery of each era was prepared and shown to participants. The results were analyzed using statistical approaches, revealing the cultural-emotional needs of users when interacting with the product. The results indicate a higher preference among Iranian users for ceramic features from the Timurid period. Additionally, the findings suggest that incorporating Sasanian patterns and simple arabesques into the vessels will better attract Iranian users. This approach helps create a more effective and engaging product for users.
Toofan Sharifi, Ahad Shahhoseini, Seyed Ali Faregh, Saeed Sadigh-Eteghad, Alberto Del Bimbo,
Volume 34, Issue 2 (4-2024)
Abstract
The study is an exploratory research based on a systematic review conducted qualitatively. It examines recent studies on the growing trends towards design participation in innovation management processes, specifically focusing on one of the main streams of research: design-driven innovation and the innovation of meaning. This research aims to define and introduce the infrastructure of this field. Therefore, the elements of analytical innovation and interpretive innovation are extracted from sources and compared across several parameters. Analytical innovation is characterized by structured and logical approaches, while interpretive innovation involves subjectivity and context. After defining hermeneutics as the science of interpretation, hermeneutic concepts are analyzed and extracted in relation to interpretive innovation in a design workshop. Concepts such as the hermeneutics of discourse, horizon of expectation, fusion of horizons, hermeneutic dialogue, metaphor, and narrative are discussed. To determine the complex relationship between hermeneutic concepts and visual representation design concepts, a bibliographic network of studies in this field was conducted. This included topics like interpretation, communication, phenomenology, design thinking, and human-centered design practice. Looking ahead, hermeneutics is poised to influence cultural inclusiveness, sustainability, ethical considerations, and interdisciplinary collaboration in design. It will also play a fundamental role in shaping digital experiences and fostering responsible innovation. Embracing these possibilities leads to a more holistic and ethically informed approach to design-driven innovation in our evolving world.
Morteza Nazarabadian, Mahdieh Razmaramina, Aliasghar Pilehvar,
Volume 34, Issue 2 (4-2024)
Abstract
The central and historical textures of cities have always been considered primary manifestations of a city's history and identity. In recent decades, such textures have received growing attention from urban designers and policymakers through infill development. This study aims to model and design infill development based on urban design and policy-making approaches. The design approach includes four dimensions: objective aesthetics, mental-cognitive aesthetics, functional, and environmental aesthetics. The policy-making method comprises three dimensions: social capital, economic infrastructure, and assessing the situation of the local area. In this study, a mixed-method approach was used to measure and analyze quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was conducted through interviews with experts in management, planning, and urban design. The discourse analysis technique was employed to refine the data obtained from the interviews and to complete the proposed models. Subsequently, the collected and refined criteria were analyzed based on the opinions of experts using MAXQDA software. The obtained model was then analyzed using MicMac software, considering experts' opinions to understand how the components affect each other, presented in the form of charts and analytical graphs. In the final step, approaches, dimensions, components, and indicators were modeled based on the importance of the components using Sankymatic software. The findings aim to present a practical model for infill development in the central and historical areas of Mashhad, as well as valuable textures of urban hubs, especially in the metropolises of Iran. Analyzing selected components in the modeling of infill development helps to provide effective strategies for valuable and central textures of cities that embody an urban identity. This study, in terms of urban planning (policy-making) and urban design (designing), presents reviews and analyses across different dimensions. Providing a comprehensive and efficient model with proposed solutions tailored to each component with the infill approach is considered a desirable method for developing valuable central and historical textures, particularly in metropolises. To date, no comprehensive model has been presented to explain the indicators of infill development from the perspectives of urban design and urban planning. This study articulates the approaches, dimensions, components, indicators, and corresponding proposed solutions in the form of a research model.
Aida Lebasi, Gholamreza Talischi,
Volume 34, Issue 2 (4-2024)
Abstract
This study conducts a thorough literature review to explore the relationship between the physical learning environment and creativity. Addressing a gap in understanding how specific attributes impact creative processes, the research aims to inform the development of innovative learning environments. Using a four-step methodology, the study involves selecting relevant articles, creating a classification framework, analyzing environmental factors' effects on learning, and interpreting findings to elucidate the correlation between physical attributes and creativity. Bibliometric analysis reveals growing scholarly interest in creative spaces. Findings emphasize the substantial impact of elements like furniture flexibility, resource accessibility, and lighting conditions on creative thinking. Key themes highlight critical factors like lighting, furniture arrangement, and diverse roles of environmental elements, contributing to enhanced cognitive performance. The study underscores the potential of optimized learning spaces to nurture creativity, promote problem-solving skills, and stimulate innovation. By enriching knowledge on the influence of physical environments on creativity, this research provides valuable insights for educators, designers, and policymakers aiming to create inspiring and effective learning environments.
Parastoo Eshrati, Roza Vakilinezhad, Arezoo Ghahramani, Dorna Eshrati, Mohammad Kazem Namazi,
Volume 34, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Various methods have been employed in vernacular architecture, to achieve energy efficiency in different regions worldwide, especially in facade designs. In Iran, most vernacular buildings are still in use without major modifications and renovations, even in harsh climatic conditions. This study uses mathematical analysis to conduct a quantitative approach toward principles used in the façade design of Bushehr's vernacular architecture. The research critically examined the physical characteristics of eight residential buildings, which were selected as case studies. These parameters included window-to-wall ratios, the surface area for each facade, and the size of different openings concerning height and weight. These physical characteristics of the selected houses were systematically extracted for both the interior and exterior facades, delineating eighteen criteria. The statistical analyses were done using IBM SPSS Statistics version 16.0. The results revealed fourteen linear models—six models related to the exterior facades, five models concerned with interior facades, and three models about the opening. Although the linear models are specific to the vernacular architecture of Bushehr, the research method and approach outlined in this study have the potential to contribute to a framework that can be used by other researchers to uncover underlying principles in vernacular facades elsewhere around the world.
Reza Babakhani, Mahsa Safarnejad,
Volume 34, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Design is a fundamental, problem-oriented, purposeful, and comprehensive activity. Despite the widespread use of computers in architecture, more than three decades after their introduction, the design process is still predominantly carried out by humans, starting with hand-drawn sketches which are later translated into digital formats via software. This is due to the fact that computers lack inherent design intuition, which remains a significant challenge in automating the architectural design process. This study aims to explore a novel approach that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for the automatic generation of architectural plans. The goal is to develop a system capable of producing designs that meet user requirements while adhering to established rules, regulations, and design standards. The central hypothesis of this research posits that by combining evolutionary algorithms with machine learning techniques, it is possible to create a process that allows machines to approximate a form of design intuition. The methodology of this research includes a combination of literature review, documentation analysis, and quantitative data analysis. The study employs genetic algorithms, supervised learning algorithms, and Python libraries. The findings indicate that using feature vectors for supervised learning can facilitate the identification of optimal designs, thereby introducing a degree of "relative intuition" into machines. Additionally, the application of genetic algorithms for exploring the design space and optimizing plans based on the dimensions of the user's land proves to be effective. Finally, by storing design process experiences through algorithms, it is possible to create a foundation for reinforcement learning, which improves the system’s performance over time. In conclusion, the study presents the Automated Design Intelligence (ADI) Theory as a new theoretical framework for automating architectural design, offering a potential shift in how design processes can be approached through AI and machine learning.
Habib Shahhoseini, Paria Donyadideh, Paniz Mousavi Samimi,
Volume 34, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Today, people are living in an immense world that contains the co-occurrence of the real world and the digital world. Since the quality of the shopping environment in the real and digital world plays a significant role in users’ preferences, the shopping environment’s design, even in the digital world, is important. The current study identified 51 images of shopping environments (clothing boutiques) published from 2019 to the end of 2021 on 8 architecture-related Instagram pages, with more than one hundred thousand likes. By using a quantitative-analytical method of content analysis and image coding, the present study examines the amount of "materials, lighting, showcase, form and seating types, colours and space configuration" as physical factors affecting Instagram consumers' preferences in shopping environments. The results show that clothing racks, hidden lighting, Stone and plaster materials, sharp-edge forms, puffs, and coherence (spatial configuration) are preferred by Instagram consumers. Examination of the average HSV of the selected images indicates a high Value and low Saturation of colours. The average Hue of the images is 89.66 °. The average RGB also indicates the average concentration of the green colour spectrum (consumers' preferred hue). The identified effective factors in the interior design of digital stores, can increase consumers’ preferences and provide insights for future online digital shopping environment management.
Hossein Nourmohammadzad, Hajar Asadpour,
Volume 34, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
The strategic urban design process (SUDP) occurs at the method level based on establishing a pair of functions and their interconnection at the macro, middle, and micro levels. Few researchers have attempted to explain such processes including ‘cognizing’ and ‘making a way’ as two related concepts. Cognizing illustrates the current state of the city's super system hierarchically, and ‘making a way’ helps conceive part of the probable (possible) situation. The mechanism creates causal relationships between the steps. The current study is a review one and was conducted using an analytical method and logical reasoning strategy. The study used a systematic approach to identify a two-step function to determine this mechanism. The steps function, sub-functions, and their mutual relations were first developed and then explained based on the process theory and the logical reasoning research method. The relation is formed with the flow of the specific information (Cognizing Outputs). Explanation propositions clarified the relationships between these two steps. The results of the explanation were shown with statements, and the emphasis was on waste and its return to the process cycle as feedback
Safora Sadra, Amir Shakibamanesh,
Volume 34, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
This study investigates how urban wall design characteristics affect pedestrians' perceptions of calmness and attention. Utilizing the portable EEG device Neurosky, the research translates brain wave activity into measurable emotional states, such as calmness and excitement, and attention levels. Employing virtual 3D interactive simulations, the study controls both physical and non-physical variables to isolate the effects of design elements. The analysis focuses on three key variables—scale, transparency, and continuity—revealing significant findings. Low wall height, fine-grained elements, continuous structures, and wider pathways enhance pedestrian calmness while reducing attention levels. In contrast, high wall heights, discontinuous or protruding features, opaque materials, and coarse-grained designs heighten attention but diminish calmness. These results underscore the dynamic interplay between individuals and their urban environment, highlighting the critical role of urban wall design in shaping psychological well-being. By offering evidence-based insights, this research informs urban design practices to create environments that foster comfort and engagement while minimizing stress.
Pedram Hessari, Mahdi Zandieh, Parisa Noor Mohammadi,
Volume 35, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Thermal comfort conditions include a range of temperature and moisture in which the regulatory mechanism of body temperature is at the lowest level of activity. This paper evaluates the thermal human comfort of bioclimatic conditions according to human comfort with analysis software. In this research, a descriptive-analytical method was utilized. Most of the data were gathered through library studies and required climate information was extracted from the data according to the weather station. In conclusion, the fall and winter seasons and the month of April have cold conditions. Therefore, applying mechanical heating and high thermal mass is needed for most of the year. One-third of a year has human comfort conditions. In this regard, natural and mechanical cooling is required for three months of the year due to warm conditions.
Roza Vakilinezhad, Navid Ziae,
Volume 35, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Buildings have a significant share of global energy consumption and a major role in global warming. Buildings also affect the temperature of their surrounding environment. The present study investigates the effect of Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and urban block configurations on energy consumption, urban microclimate, and outdoor thermal comfort in Tehran with a hot climate, using the simulation method and Ladybug Tools (1.6.0). According to the results, decreasing FAR in an urban block improves urban microclimate while reducing building energy consumption. The results reveal that the effect of FAR on the buildings' energy consumption is more considerable. Decreasing FAR reduces the buildings’ energy consumption and outdoor air temperature. Furthermore, the scattered form of urban blocks consumes the highest cooling energy while having the lowest heating load. The lowest cooling and heating loads are found in the linear and scatter organizations. Considering the dominant cost of cooling energy, the case with less FAR would be the best choice from an economic point of view. For three-story urban blocks, the best case is the courtyard form, while for five and nine-story urban blocks, the best option would be the linear form.
