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Showing 367 results for Type of Study: Research
Sahar Hosseinpour, Yahya Jamali, Azita Belali Oskuyi, Shamim Nottagh, Aref Monadi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Throughout history, due to gender-based distinctions formed within society, differing needs have been defined for men and women. Architecture, as one of the most impressionable aspects of society, has consequently transformed. Attention to gender—as a social and cultural factor influencing the formation of physical environments and their spatial arrangement—is of particular importance. In exploring the relationship between gender and architecture, the concept of gendered spaces emerges, with examples identifiable in traditional Iranian architecture. In this context, cultural, social, and economic factors have generally shaped the conception of gender and space. Among the most significant elements of traditional architecture are residential houses. This study investigates, analyzes, and compares the physical components of a selection of traditional houses located in the historical fabric of Tabriz from the Qajar and Pahlavi periods, focusing on gender distinctions and the influencing factors. To this end, eight Qajar houses and eight Pahlavi houses were selected as case studies. The research aims to answer the following questions: How were gender distinctions manifested in the design of traditional houses in Tabriz during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods? What are the differences between them? And which spatial elements were most affected by gender differentiation? A qualitative analysis was conducted to address these questions. According to the findings, gender distinctions in the architecture of Qajar-era houses were more significantly influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. By contrast, the influence of these factors on gender-based spatial segregation was significantly reduced in Pahlavi-era houses. Ultimately, these homes exhibited an absence of gender-based spatial division, and their architecture moved towards extroversion. Among all architectural elements in Qajar-period houses, the greatest impact of gender distinction was evident in the spatial definition of two separate courtyards: the outer and the inner courtyard. In Pahlavi-era houses, although gender distinctions were generally reduced across all spatial components, private rooms, bathrooms, and—in some cases—the kitchen remained the elements most influenced by gender considerations.
Dr Behzad Vasigh,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
The Central Asian region, due to its location on the Silk Road and its role in the reconstruction of Iranian national culture, is a suitable context for understanding Iranian architecture. Political developments and the multiplicity and durability of emirates have caused building diversity. Madrasas are among the functions that have a privileged position among these buildings and have been favored by the rulers for religious-political reasons. In this research, a comparative study between Central Asian madrasas has been done. To date, no studies have examined the architecture of Central Asian madrasas during the Islamic period using contemporary research methods, whereas most architectural studies have increasingly adopted modern analytical approaches. The research method is based on case studies. Schools were analyzed in DEPTHMAP software. One of the objectives of this research is to clarify the roots of physical planning and typology of these madrasas by applying spatial, structural, and physical analysis of the madrasas in this geography. The question of this research is: What is the process of spatial transformations of Central Asian madrasas? The research aims to investigate the spatial evolution of Central Asian schools from the Timurid to the Oshtarkhanid. This research shows that، the design procedures were formed based on the variety in the number of yards، the way of demarcation between the public area of the city and the education space، the separation of residence and teaching، and from the physical point of view، the way of volume organization including having The minaret، the shape of the entry organ، the way of stabilizing the volume in the corners and from the spatial aspect، the shape of the courtyard، the presence of the mosque and other side spaces have been effective on the system of building madrasas. The madrasas of this geography represent a generalization of education through the formation of a semi-public space. The results also indicate that during these three periods, the architecture of schools has moved towards increasing spatial control, strengthening privacy, and a balance between social connection and educational confidentiality.
Neda Amini, Mehdi Khakzand,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Landscape is not merely a place, space, or natural setting; rather, it represents the relationship between human beings and their environment through natural, social, and cultural dimensions. As both a process and a platform for human interaction, it supports life, survival, and quality of life while providing a context for realizing the rights of different groups of people. The concept of the right to landscape has recently emerged at the intersection of human rights and landscape studies. However, despite its broad scope and the diversity of stakeholders involved, this issue has received limited attention in legal documents and academic research, particularly within the socio-cultural and Islamic context of Iran.
This study aims to define the concept of the right to landscape, clarify its dimensions and legal status, and provide a foundation for future legislation through the jurisprudential rule of La Zarar. It addresses the questions of what constitutes the right to landscape and how the rule of La Zarar can contribute to its definition.
The research employs reflective thematic analysis. Data were collected through triangulation, including face-to-face open interviews, content analysis of existing documents and studies, and archival images. Landscape-related events were examined using Strecker’s landscape classification, covering everyday, political, cultural, and natural landscapes. The interviews explored issues such as spatial rights, citizenship rights, spatial requirements, preferences, and deficiencies in the experience of urban landscapes. The data were organized and analyzed using Atlas.ti 8. Thirty-two interviews were conducted with randomly selected participants of different ages and genders until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis procedure, supported by the twenty-question qualitative assessment tool to ensure analytical quality.
The analysis identified four main themes: the right to honor and benefit from cultural rituals, identity, and religion; the right to dignity and quality of life; the right to health and the preservation and maintenance of ecosystems; and the right to equal access, participation, and use of the landscape. The findings confirm the relevance of the La Zarar rule in defining the boundaries of the right to landscape. Clarifying these dimensions and their relationship with latent power structures and local conflicts that shape and reproduce landscapes can contribute to spatial justice and support the protection of beneficiaries’ rights. The study also recommends examining other Islamic jurisprudential rules and Ahadith in future research on the right to landscape.
This study aims to define the concept of the right to landscape, clarify its dimensions and legal status, and provide a foundation for future legislation through the jurisprudential rule of La Zarar. It addresses the questions of what constitutes the right to landscape and how the rule of La Zarar can contribute to its definition.
The research employs reflective thematic analysis. Data were collected through triangulation, including face-to-face open interviews, content analysis of existing documents and studies, and archival images. Landscape-related events were examined using Strecker’s landscape classification, covering everyday, political, cultural, and natural landscapes. The interviews explored issues such as spatial rights, citizenship rights, spatial requirements, preferences, and deficiencies in the experience of urban landscapes. The data were organized and analyzed using Atlas.ti 8. Thirty-two interviews were conducted with randomly selected participants of different ages and genders until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis procedure, supported by the twenty-question qualitative assessment tool to ensure analytical quality.
The analysis identified four main themes: the right to honor and benefit from cultural rituals, identity, and religion; the right to dignity and quality of life; the right to health and the preservation and maintenance of ecosystems; and the right to equal access, participation, and use of the landscape. The findings confirm the relevance of the La Zarar rule in defining the boundaries of the right to landscape. Clarifying these dimensions and their relationship with latent power structures and local conflicts that shape and reproduce landscapes can contribute to spatial justice and support the protection of beneficiaries’ rights. The study also recommends examining other Islamic jurisprudential rules and Ahadith in future research on the right to landscape.
Eng Hadi Farhangdoust, Dr Sanaz Saeidi Mofrad,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
This study aims to develop a multilayered and historically informed interpretation of contextualism in post-Islamic Iranian architecture through a deconstructive reading. Rather than limiting itself to the description of stylistic forms, it investigates the conceptual, semantic, and discursive transformations of the notion of “context” across different architectural styles. Emphasis is placed on extra-architectural correlates in order to critically reinterpret Iranian architectural history and to explore the qualitative and substantive changes in the relationships among elements shaping contextualism. Central to this approach is the recognition of the instability of meaning and the historically constructed nature of architectural concepts.
Within this framework, “context” is no longer understood as a fixed or purely material condition but as a discursive and mutable construct produced through networks of power, language, and culture. Drawing on deconstructive logic, the study challenges essentialist assumptions surrounding concepts such as indigeneity, authenticity, tradition, and the meaning of space. This perspective is particularly relevant because many architectural transformations in Iran have coincided with political, religious, and social discourses that conventional contextualist readings often ignore.
The necessity of the research arises from gaps in contemporary Iranian architectural scholarship, which largely relies on descriptive or reductionist analyses focused on physical characteristics. Such approaches overlook processes of meaning production, the influence of dominant discourses, and the role of institutional power, contributing to imitative architectural practices and theoretical stagnation in education. Deconstruction is therefore employed as an epistemological tool to analyze contextualism as a concept continually redefined across historical periods.
Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative and deconstructive approach grounded in Derrida’s philosophy. Through reading, coding, thematic extraction, reflection, and synthesis, it identifies naturalized binary oppositions—such as tradition–modernity and indigenous–nonindigenous—and reveals their historical fluidity. Architectural styles from Khorasani to contemporary periods are examined through textual and visual sources.
The findings demonstrate that contextualism in Iranian architecture has been shaped differently in each era by power structures, ideological frameworks, and socio-cultural conditions. Ultimately, the research concludes that contextualism cannot be understood as a singular or authentic model but must be approached as a readable and reinterpretable text. This perspective enables more nuanced historical analysis and supports a critical, context-sensitive approach to architectural theory, practice, and education.
Dr Ahad Nejadebrahimi, Mrs Hanieh Mohammadzadeh Jamlian, Dr Hosein Esmaeilisangari,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
The Jameh Kabir Mosque of Tabriz is one of Iran’s most significant architectural monuments and has long served as a major religious, political, and social center. Throughout the Ilkhanid, Jalayirid, Turkmen, Safavid, and Qajar periods, it functioned as the principal venue for public proclamations, political events, and religious decrees. Located within the historic citadel and adjacent to the bazaar, the mosque formed the spiritual and economic heart of the city. Historical sources consistently identify it as the Jameh Kabir, a title it retained despite the construction of other monumental mosques in Tabriz, reflecting its enduring historical and cultural importance. During the Safavid and Qajar periods, royal and municipal decrees were inscribed on stone tablets and displayed in the mosque, leaving valuable historical evidence.
Although the exact date of its construction is unknown, historical and architectural evidence suggests that the mosque dates back to the early Islamic centuries. Over time, it experienced repeated destruction, reconstruction, renovation, and expansion due to political changes, earthquakes, and successive building campaigns. These interventions gradually transformed its original structure while incorporating architectural characteristics of different historical periods. This study aims to examine and document the architectural and spatial evolution of the Jameh Kabir Mosque of Tabriz from its earliest formation to the Qajar period. The research is based on the assumption that, despite extensive alterations, significant structural and spatial elements from different periods remain identifiable. By comparing the mosque with contemporary Islamic mosques and architectural traditions, the study reconstructs its historical development. Given the limited scholarly attention to the mosque’s spatial and formal transformations, this research seeks to address an important gap in the literature.
The study adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology based on historical document analysis, field surveys, and comparative studies of similar mosques with preserved structures or reliable historical documentation. This approach enables the reconstruction of the mosque’s architectural configuration across different periods. The findings reveal that the mosque’s present structure is founded on both early Islamic and later architectural phases. Major interventions include the construction of a stucco mihrab during the Ilkhanid period, the northern expansion under the Turkmens, and the replacement of the original dual-dome system with a vault-and-arch covering during the Qajar period. Additional mosques, madrasas, and libraries were gradually incorporated into the complex, transforming it into a larger religious and civic center. The study demonstrates the continuity and adaptability of the Jameh Kabir Mosque of Tabriz and contributes to a better understanding of the evolution of Islamic mosque architecture and architectural reconstruction.
Although the exact date of its construction is unknown, historical and architectural evidence suggests that the mosque dates back to the early Islamic centuries. Over time, it experienced repeated destruction, reconstruction, renovation, and expansion due to political changes, earthquakes, and successive building campaigns. These interventions gradually transformed its original structure while incorporating architectural characteristics of different historical periods. This study aims to examine and document the architectural and spatial evolution of the Jameh Kabir Mosque of Tabriz from its earliest formation to the Qajar period. The research is based on the assumption that, despite extensive alterations, significant structural and spatial elements from different periods remain identifiable. By comparing the mosque with contemporary Islamic mosques and architectural traditions, the study reconstructs its historical development. Given the limited scholarly attention to the mosque’s spatial and formal transformations, this research seeks to address an important gap in the literature.
The study adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology based on historical document analysis, field surveys, and comparative studies of similar mosques with preserved structures or reliable historical documentation. This approach enables the reconstruction of the mosque’s architectural configuration across different periods. The findings reveal that the mosque’s present structure is founded on both early Islamic and later architectural phases. Major interventions include the construction of a stucco mihrab during the Ilkhanid period, the northern expansion under the Turkmens, and the replacement of the original dual-dome system with a vault-and-arch covering during the Qajar period. Additional mosques, madrasas, and libraries were gradually incorporated into the complex, transforming it into a larger religious and civic center. The study demonstrates the continuity and adaptability of the Jameh Kabir Mosque of Tabriz and contributes to a better understanding of the evolution of Islamic mosque architecture and architectural reconstruction.
Gholamhosein Memarian, Zahra Najafi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Type and typology are among the most significant theoretical discussions in architecture, attracting the attention of numerous researchers over the past two centuries. This paper focuses on one of the prominent scholars in this field—Gianfranco Caniggia—and explores various definitions of type and typology while examining their intellectual foundations. Although the founder of this school of thought was Saverio Muratori, it was his students who disseminated the ideas of this innovative architect. Caniggia, through the publication of several books during his lifetime, developed a distinctive method for describing and analyzing Muratori’s theoretical concepts, to the extent that some have termed his approach the "Caniggia School."
In this article, drawing on various sources—most of which are in Italian—we present Caniggia’s perspective and endeavor to articulate the theoretical underpinnings of each discussed topic. In the end, it becomes evident that the diverse definitions of type and typology proposed by Caniggia are framed solely within the material-physical dimension, as well as within the context of time, space, and material history.
In this article, drawing on various sources—most of which are in Italian—we present Caniggia’s perspective and endeavor to articulate the theoretical underpinnings of each discussed topic. In the end, it becomes evident that the diverse definitions of type and typology proposed by Caniggia are framed solely within the material-physical dimension, as well as within the context of time, space, and material history.
Elham Rezaei,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
Drawing muqarnas within circular and elliptical geometric frameworks does not impose any limitation on the choice of rosette (shamseh) due to the absence of corners in the plan. In such cases, designers can freely select the rosette without concern for alignment with the angles of the geometric framework. However, when the geometric framework contains multiple corners, selecting an appropriate rosette becomes a significant design challenge, as it must respond to the framework and coordinate its radial angles with those of the geometric framework. This coordination may involve the intersection of the rosette’s radial extensions with the corners of the framework, or alternatively, the geometric framework may play a passive role in guiding the choice of the muqarnas rosette. Considering the extensive experience of Asghar Sha’rbaf, a recognized master in muqarnas design, and analyzing his documented works in the book Selected Works, the present study investigates this issue across a collection of his designs. The research specifically addresses the following questions: How do the corner angles of the geometric framework influence the selection and construction of the rosette? In Sha’rbaf’s polygonal-geometric-framework designs, are rosettes drawn with equal radial angles, or do they display deliberate variations to achieve geometric harmony? The main objective is to evaluate how geometric frameworks with plans exceeding four sides affect the form and alignment of rosettes in Sha’rbaf’s muqarnas designs. By examining the relationship between the rosette and the underlying geometric framework, this study not only enhances the understanding of muqarnas plan geometries but also provides practical guidance for selecting and accurately drawing rosettes in complex designs. Data were collected through extensive library research, scanning and documenting muqarnas designs, and analyzing the results using planar geometry and angular relationships. The findings reveal that in Sha’rbaf’s designs with geometric frameworks of more than four sides, rosettes are generally aligned with the geometric framework, meaning their radial angles extend through the corners. In cases where direct alignment is absent, the corners are instead coordinated with the axes of some horizontal elements. Slight variations in radial angles indicate that rosettes are not always perfectly regular, allowing them to adapt and maintain overall geometric harmony with the geometric framework.
Seyyedeh Samira Altaha Bonab, Ahad Nejad Ebrahimi,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
Karbandi is a type of covering that consists of a combination of arched lintels (narrow arches). And it can be applied to roof coverings in various ways. One of the methods that Iranian architects have used to build Chapireh is the use of karbandi. Which is used in various parts of corner making, including cornering or Shekanj. And the various contexts in which the dome has been implemented have enabled Karbandi to create architectural beauty in addition to structural behavior. And in designing the layout on its grounds; determining the connection points and theoretical and practical geometry is considered a vital step. Because each karbandi has a certain theoretical and practical geometry. In the present study, the connection points and theoretical and practical geometry in two fields of square and rectangular karbandi implemented in corner construction will be examined. This research is a qualitative research type, which is done using a descriptive-analytical method and the necessary information was obtained through library studies and sample analysis. Therefore, in order to achieve the results of this research, the use of corner construction in various buildings was first examined. The plan and three-dimensional view of each of the structures were examined and analyzed in terms of practical and theoretical geometry. The results of the research show that a) corner construction can be divided into two categories: shape and field. In terms of shape, it can be applied to two categories: square and rectangle, and in terms of field, it can be applied to two categories: 2) The theoretical and practical geometry of cornering in the field of squares and rectangles is not the same. For a two-dimensional drawing, the number obtained from counting the butterflies must be added to the number 4, but for three-dimensional modeling, there is no need to add the number 4. 3) The theoretical and practical geometry of the connection points are not the same. To implement and model a karbandi, the connection points (d) obtained from counting the rows must be subtracted from the number 1 because when we do not subtract the number 1 and start implementing and drawing, an additional butterfly row is created in the karbandi, which is not correct.
Marzieh Aslani, Mohammadali Khanmohammadi, Mahdi Hamzenejad, Mahmoud Talkhabi, Farhang Mozafar,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
The physical learning environment plays a critical role in shaping the quality of students’ learning experiences, particularly through its interaction with motivational and cognitive processes. Despite their foundational significance in explaining various dimensions of learning, the two prominent theoretical models—Reeve’s Student Engagement model and McCloskey’s Executive Functions model—have rarely been explicitly utilized in the design and analysis of physical learning environments. Furthermore, a comparative exploration of their complementary and integrative analytical potentials, particularly in the context of the physical environment, represents a notable research gap. Addressing this gap holds promise for enhancing both the theoretical foundation and practical strategies in the design of learning spaces. Therefore, this article aims to examine the potential of Reeve’s motivational model and McCloskey’s executive function model for analyzing the physical learning environment. By focusing on learners’ internal processes—namely, types of engagement in the former and executive functions in the latter—these two models offer a framework in which the physical environment is not seen as a neutral backdrop, but rather as an active factor in shaping learning experiences. The central research questions are: What dimensions and indicators does each model propose for analyzing the physical environment in relation to student learning? What are the contributions of a comparative analysis of these two models to understanding and analyzing the physical learning environment? Accordingly, this study employs a comparative analysis with a qualitative approach, using documentary and library research as the data collection method. To this end, the two selected theoretical models—Reeve’s model, which focuses on motivation and types of student engagement, and McCloskey’s model, which emphasizes cognitive executive functions—were first examined in terms of their foundational concepts, internal structure, and applications in learning environments. Subsequently, through conceptual content analysis and deductive inference, the potential of each model to analyze various dimensions of the physical learning environment—including spatial organization, functional uses, physical elements, and formal properties—was investigated and compared. The aim of this comparison was to identify the distinguishing and overlapping features of the two models in analyzing the physical learning environment and to clarify their roles in explaining the characteristics of effective physical environments for learning. Reeve’s model, grounded in Self-Determination Theory, emphasizes the teacher’s role in supporting students’ autonomy and fostering behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and agentic engagement. In contrast, McCloskey’s model focuses on brain-mind executive functions structured into clusters and performance arenas, offering a neuropsychological perspective on the learner’s interaction with the environment. A comparative study of Reeve’s psychological model and McCloskey’s neuropsychological model reveals that each framework, grounded in distinct theoretical foundations, addresses complementary aspects of the relationship between physical environment and learning. The dimensions and indicators of the two models can be analyzed from two perspectives. At the conceptual dimention, Reeve’s model focuses on intrinsic motivation driven by psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness) and the multiple dimensions of engagement (cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and agentic). In contrast, McCloskey’s model emphasizes the neurocognitive processes underlying learning by proposing clusters of executive functions (Attending, Engaging, Monitoring and Adjusting, Performing Efficiently, Managing Memory, Inquiring Reflectively, and Problem Solving), along with four contextual arenas in which these functions operate (intrapersonal, interpersonal, environmental, and symbolic systems). At the methodological dimention, Reeve’s model is applicable in studies of the physical environment that focus on measuring motivation and observing types of engagement. Meanwhile, McCloskey’s framework is suitable for evaluating the physical environment from precise cognitive perspectives, analyzing mental functions, and designing interventions based on cognitive neuroscience. These methodological differences are reflected in the types of assessment tools, levels of analysis, and nature of data employed. At the practical dimention, Reeve’s model, with its focus on intrinsic motivation, psychological needs, and multifaceted engagement, provides a rich conceptual framework for analyzing the physical environment from a motivational-social perspective. McCloskey’s model, on the other hand, offers an analytical basis for assessing the physical environment in terms of its support or hindrance of neurocognitive functioning based on executive operations. Ultimately, both models enable the analysis of physical learning environments in terms of their alignment with motivational and executive mental needs and support for self-regulatory processes. Accordingly, Reeve’s model is particularly useful in analyzing and designing learning spaces that emphasize motivation, choice, interaction, and learner-centeredness. It is especially applicable to the design of motivational spaces that promote positive emotions and active engagement, offering flexibility, personalization, and suitability for small, medium, and large group activities. Conversely, McCloskey’s model Is effective in analyzing environments that require minimized distractions, enhanced concentration, spatial order, and quick feedback. It emphasizes efficient spatial organization, visual clarity, and the design of personal and group spaces aligned with cognitive goals such as inquiry and problem-solving. In conclusion, these two models are not in conflict but are analytically complementary. Their integration offers a synergistic perspective on the motivational and cognitive dimensions of the physical learning environment. Combining insights from both models allows for a deeper, multilayered, and more integrated analysis of the relationship between physical space and learning. Such an approach offers educational space designers, educational psychologists, and learning researchers a comprehensive framework for designing environments that support both learner motivation and cognitive functioning.
Azita Balalioskoyi, Mahdi Farjad, Shahrzad Banan, Yahya Jamali,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
The Pahlavi era in Iran coincided with the emergence of various movements that influenced different aspects of people’s lives, providing fertile ground for the expression of architects’ creativity and talent. Along with these developments, the physical structure of cities underwent significant transformations. Among them, changes in the function of urban passages led to a shift in architectural character—from introversion to extroversion. Consequently, openings and windows acquired a more prominent role in shaping the urban façade and landscape.
In contemporary Iranian architecture, however, this valuable heritage has been endangered in recent years due to rapid demolitions and renovations carried out without regard for the existing historical structures.
The purpose of this article is to analyze the typology and identify the archetypal patterns underlying the formation of window forms. The research method is descriptive-analytical, and the approach is qualitative. This study aims to answer two main questions:
1. Into how many categories can the dominant formal patterns of openings in Tehran’s Pahlavi-period architecture be classified?
2. What are the origins of each of these dominant formal patterns?
To achieve this, approximately 1,000 houses were analyzed. Patterns with formal similarities were identified and categorized into several groups: pure patterns, shape patterns, free spiral, ram’s horn spiral, single spiral, regular spiral, composite spiral patterns, composite patterns, floral and vegetal motifs, and forty-piece compositions. Based on these general classifications, a fundamental pattern was extracted for each category.
In contemporary Iranian architecture, however, this valuable heritage has been endangered in recent years due to rapid demolitions and renovations carried out without regard for the existing historical structures.
The purpose of this article is to analyze the typology and identify the archetypal patterns underlying the formation of window forms. The research method is descriptive-analytical, and the approach is qualitative. This study aims to answer two main questions:
1. Into how many categories can the dominant formal patterns of openings in Tehran’s Pahlavi-period architecture be classified?
2. What are the origins of each of these dominant formal patterns?
To achieve this, approximately 1,000 houses were analyzed. Patterns with formal similarities were identified and categorized into several groups: pure patterns, shape patterns, free spiral, ram’s horn spiral, single spiral, regular spiral, composite spiral patterns, composite patterns, floral and vegetal motifs, and forty-piece compositions. Based on these general classifications, a fundamental pattern was extracted for each category.
Samira Salehi, Mohsen Dehghani Tafti, Gholamhossein Memarian,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
In contemporary times, the neglect of past architectural methods and their identity has impacted the quality of modern housing. However, understanding and studying the structure of historical houses can serve as a bridge linking traditional architecture with today’s residential design. Iranian historical houses were always constructed in harmony with their geographical context and in response to diverse cultural and livelihood needs. Among these, the historical houses of Isfahan stood out as some of the most prominent examples, warranting deeper analysis.
This study aimed to identify and analyze the construction patterns of houses in the city of Isfahan through a typological approach. The research focused on 33 Muslim-inhabited houses located in Isfahan's historical fabric, spanning from the Safavid era to the late Qajar period. The methodology was qualitative and based on typological classification.
The findings revealed that the historical houses of Isfahan could be categorized into three primary types based on the main spatial element located on the central courtyard’s main façade: Shekam-Darideh (cross-shaped plan), Talardār (with a central hall), and Iwandār (with a portico). Each of these types reflected distinct physical structures and spatial-constructional systems associated with specific lifestyles. In the Shekam-Darideh type, a cruciform space was located along the courtyard’s central axis, influencing the courtyard's overall appearance. The Talardār type featured a rectangular hall with a flat roof, placed on the main axis of the courtyard. In the Iwandār type, a columned portico dominated the main façade, typically flanked by adjacent rooms such as traditional three-door or two-door rooms. The Iwandār type was structurally simpler, incorporating three spatial categories: open, semi-open, and closed. Each typology offered unique capabilities to meet residents' needs under various conditions.
Dr Morvarid Barar, Dr Davod Ranjbaran, Dr Alireza Razeghi,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
Understanding the jurisprudential teachings of Islamic schools of thought is essential for appreciating Islamic art and architecture, as it reveals reveal broader dimensions of Islamic wisdom expressed through built forms. The mosque, as the most comprehensive architectural typology in Islamic culture, serves as a significant reflection of Islamic beliefs. To fully grasp mosque architecture, one must acknowledge the doctrinal principles of the two primary Islamic sects—Shi'ism and Sunnism. A comparative analysis of mosques associated with these sects not only highlights their architectural features but also illuminates the cultural and historical contexts across various regions of the Islamic world.
This research investigates how the jurisprudential principles of Shi'a and Sunni Islam shape mosque architecture, identifying both similarities and differences. The study examines Quranic verses and Hadiths from each tradition to extract key jurisprudential foundations and analyzes five Sunni and five Shi'a mosques from the Qajar period located in the provinces of Kurdistan and Kermanshah. Through comparative analysis, the research identifies points of convergence and divergence.
The findings reveal that the jurisprudential principles of both sects influence mosque architecture in both direct and indirect ways. Consequently, the physical components of the mosques are categorized into five distinct groups, evaluated according to their respective sectarian principles. The analyzed Shi'a mosques exhibit a stronger alignment with jurisprudential elements specific to Shi'a doctrine and demonstrate a more pronounced civilizational significance in their architectural expression.
This research investigates how the jurisprudential principles of Shi'a and Sunni Islam shape mosque architecture, identifying both similarities and differences. The study examines Quranic verses and Hadiths from each tradition to extract key jurisprudential foundations and analyzes five Sunni and five Shi'a mosques from the Qajar period located in the provinces of Kurdistan and Kermanshah. Through comparative analysis, the research identifies points of convergence and divergence.
The findings reveal that the jurisprudential principles of both sects influence mosque architecture in both direct and indirect ways. Consequently, the physical components of the mosques are categorized into five distinct groups, evaluated according to their respective sectarian principles. The analyzed Shi'a mosques exhibit a stronger alignment with jurisprudential elements specific to Shi'a doctrine and demonstrate a more pronounced civilizational significance in their architectural expression.
Zeinab Hayati, Soulmaz Aghaei,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
The concept of "inner space" (Daroon) as a fundamental quality in architecture of worship place plays a decisive role in shaping the experience of presence. However, today, this quality is often weakened due to the dominance of formal and functional aspects, necessitating a systematic and analytical redefinition. This research aimed to formulate an analytical framework for the concept of "inner space," examine its manifestation in the rock shrine Ghadamgah in Azarshahr, and conduct an analytical comparison with contemporary architecture of similar typologies. Employing a qualitative-interpretive method and a case study strategy at the mentioned site, the study sought to answer two primary questions: first, what are the orders, levels, and characteristics of the concept of inner space in architecture from the perspective of theorists; and second, how is the inner space defined in the architecture of the rock shrine Ghadamgah of Azarshahr. Data were collected through systematic field observations, physical documentation, and library studies, and were analyzed using an interpretive synthesis approach, with validity ensured through a triangulation strategy.
The findings reveal that "inner space" is a relational and generative phenomenon formed through the interaction between the human and the space in a three-level hierarchical process: (1) At the structural level, strategies such as enclosure, emphasis on mass, and symbolic lighting create a meaningful physical context. (2) This context enables patterns at the functional level, including movement guidance and focus on a center. (3) The user's interaction with these two layers leads to rich experiences at the semantic level, such as a sense of immersion and spiritual connection. The main achievement of the research is presenting a three-level analytical model of inner space. Applying this model as a critique criterion shows that the weakening of inner space quality in many contemporary of worship place typologies is primarily the result of an unbalanced attention and the excessive dominance of the structural level (visual grandeur and scale) at the cost of neglecting the actional and perceptual levels (privacy, stillness, and sense of belonging). From a practical perspective, this framework provides a design guide that emphasizes the necessity of creating a systemic balance between form, function, and experience.
The findings reveal that "inner space" is a relational and generative phenomenon formed through the interaction between the human and the space in a three-level hierarchical process: (1) At the structural level, strategies such as enclosure, emphasis on mass, and symbolic lighting create a meaningful physical context. (2) This context enables patterns at the functional level, including movement guidance and focus on a center. (3) The user's interaction with these two layers leads to rich experiences at the semantic level, such as a sense of immersion and spiritual connection. The main achievement of the research is presenting a three-level analytical model of inner space. Applying this model as a critique criterion shows that the weakening of inner space quality in many contemporary of worship place typologies is primarily the result of an unbalanced attention and the excessive dominance of the structural level (visual grandeur and scale) at the cost of neglecting the actional and perceptual levels (privacy, stillness, and sense of belonging). From a practical perspective, this framework provides a design guide that emphasizes the necessity of creating a systemic balance between form, function, and experience.
Dr Somayeh Omidvari, Dr Mahdi Hamzenegad,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
Statement of the issue: Hospitality and hospitality is a long-standing tradition that is rooted in the culture and habits of the people of each land and is one of the prominent moral components in Islam that is in the books of thinkers, experts and verses and hadiths Has been emphasized. This culture of hospitality in Islamic architecture has also had various effects. In Islamic houses, depending on the environment and culture, the methods of hospitality differ from the guest and, consequently, its architectural effects. In Islamic houses, the guest space has different names, including; the sash room was a seven-door room, a five-door room, al-Mudif, al-Shanshil, the assembly. Damascus is one of the Islamic cities that the guest arena in the houses of this city has been very important. The "quay" space in these houses is one of the important living spaces that is often available to guests. Many factors such as the economic level of the family, the type of guests, the number of guest spaces, etc. have been effective in the formation of these spaces.
Objective of this research: This study studies the importance of guests and hospitality from the perspective of Islamic thinkers and examines the types of guests from the perspective of kinship, type and duration of their presence in Islamic homes. In the following, by extracting the effective components in designing the guest space in Islamic houses, it examines and analyzes the effects of guest honoring in the spatial structures of Damascus houses, as a type of Islamic houses. The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyze the effective components in honoring guests of different types of guest space in Damascus houses.
Research Question: What are the patterns of hospitable atmosphere in Damascus houses as a type of Islamic houses? What are the influential components in the formation of guest space patterns in Damascus houses?
Research Method: The research method of this article is descriptive-analytical. The method of collecting information in this paper is field and documentary (library). In this study, focusing on the houses of Damascus as a type of Islamic houses, the typology of these houses and the typology of the guest space in them.
Conclusion: In the houses of Damascus, the quarters have three different main types and based on their location in the inner and outer courtyard or the main courtyard, they have distinct features from the perspective; spatial dignity has been privacy, invitations and arenas. The location of the space in each of the yards has had a different dignity and quality characteristics. The barracks in the main courtyard have a high status and consequently there is a lot of inviting, and as the space of the barracks enters the more private areas of the house, the invitingness of this space has decreased and it has simpler decorations, which are sometimes the family's place of residence is integrated.
Objective of this research: This study studies the importance of guests and hospitality from the perspective of Islamic thinkers and examines the types of guests from the perspective of kinship, type and duration of their presence in Islamic homes. In the following, by extracting the effective components in designing the guest space in Islamic houses, it examines and analyzes the effects of guest honoring in the spatial structures of Damascus houses, as a type of Islamic houses. The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyze the effective components in honoring guests of different types of guest space in Damascus houses.
Research Question: What are the patterns of hospitable atmosphere in Damascus houses as a type of Islamic houses? What are the influential components in the formation of guest space patterns in Damascus houses?
Research Method: The research method of this article is descriptive-analytical. The method of collecting information in this paper is field and documentary (library). In this study, focusing on the houses of Damascus as a type of Islamic houses, the typology of these houses and the typology of the guest space in them.
Conclusion: In the houses of Damascus, the quarters have three different main types and based on their location in the inner and outer courtyard or the main courtyard, they have distinct features from the perspective; spatial dignity has been privacy, invitations and arenas. The location of the space in each of the yards has had a different dignity and quality characteristics. The barracks in the main courtyard have a high status and consequently there is a lot of inviting, and as the space of the barracks enters the more private areas of the house, the invitingness of this space has decreased and it has simpler decorations, which are sometimes the family's place of residence is integrated.
Fatemeh Sanat, Mohammadmannan Raeesi, Hamed Hayati,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
One of the most important dimensions of the human–place relationship is the sense of place attachment, which develops when an individual interacts with an environment and forms meaning and emotional bonds toward it. This study addresses two questions: Which physical and non-physical components influence place attachment in apartment and detached houses? How does the level of attachment compare between these two housing types and by which indicators can they be contrasted? Which components play a more prominent role in each housing pattern?
Following a literature review, nine key indicators were identified and, through field investigation in the Shahid Mahallati Residential Town (District 1, Tehran), were regarded as the most pertinent challenges in the study area. The physical indicators comprised: form and dimensions of elements, spatial configuration and access, materials and finishes, and spatial privacy; the non-physical indicators comprised: meanings and symbols, activity and comfort, social interactions, individual characteristics, and memories and experiences.
The research adopts a survey design. Data were collected via 276 researcher-designed questionnaires; the sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula. Statistical analyses were performed in SPSS using independent-samples t tests, Pearson correlation, and multivariate regression.
Findings indicate that in detached houses, physical indicators-particularly form and dimensions of elements and spatial privacy-exert the greatest influence on place attachment, as geometric proportions and hierarchical entry and visual separation between interior spaces ensure flexibility and tranquility. In contrast, in apartment buildings, spatial configuration and access together with quality of materials and finishes play a more prominent role; the simplicity and legibility of internal spatial relationships and the use of modern, high-quality materials reinforce attachment. Regarding non-physical indicators, activity and comfort and memories and experiences are most influential in detached houses, whereas social interactions emerge as the primary factor in apartment living. The indicators meanings and symbols and individual characteristics showed similar effects across both housing types. Overall, results suggest that place attachment in detached houses is more strongly rooted in spatial proportions, hierarchical organization, and mnemonic ties, while in apartments it is more contingent on construction quality and social interaction among residents.
Following a literature review, nine key indicators were identified and, through field investigation in the Shahid Mahallati Residential Town (District 1, Tehran), were regarded as the most pertinent challenges in the study area. The physical indicators comprised: form and dimensions of elements, spatial configuration and access, materials and finishes, and spatial privacy; the non-physical indicators comprised: meanings and symbols, activity and comfort, social interactions, individual characteristics, and memories and experiences.
The research adopts a survey design. Data were collected via 276 researcher-designed questionnaires; the sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula. Statistical analyses were performed in SPSS using independent-samples t tests, Pearson correlation, and multivariate regression.
Findings indicate that in detached houses, physical indicators-particularly form and dimensions of elements and spatial privacy-exert the greatest influence on place attachment, as geometric proportions and hierarchical entry and visual separation between interior spaces ensure flexibility and tranquility. In contrast, in apartment buildings, spatial configuration and access together with quality of materials and finishes play a more prominent role; the simplicity and legibility of internal spatial relationships and the use of modern, high-quality materials reinforce attachment. Regarding non-physical indicators, activity and comfort and memories and experiences are most influential in detached houses, whereas social interactions emerge as the primary factor in apartment living. The indicators meanings and symbols and individual characteristics showed similar effects across both housing types. Overall, results suggest that place attachment in detached houses is more strongly rooted in spatial proportions, hierarchical organization, and mnemonic ties, while in apartments it is more contingent on construction quality and social interaction among residents.
Amidoleslam Saghatoleslami,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
The need for security, after satisfying human physiological needs, is considered one of the most essential needs of human society and urban environments. So far, few studies have been conducted on the concept of a safe city in Islamic thought, especially using the Holy Quran. The aim of this research is to identify the meaning, concept, and components of a safe city based on the teachings of the Holy Quran.
The research method of this qualitative research is using the qualitative content analysis method and with an exploratory approach. The main source and reference for collecting information is the Holy Quran, along with it, related religious texts, including authentic religious statements and narrations, including related interpretative books, were also used.
In the research process, 40 verses of the Holy Quran related to the concept of security were selected. Using the coding method, initial codes and, in later stages, subcategories and main categories were extracted from the verses.
The results of the research show that, from the sight of the Holy Quran, security is a comprehensive concept and a safe city is a multidimensional concept that is raised in different dimentonss of human life.
On this basis and corresponding to the pillars and characteristics of urban society, 18 criteria were extracted in relation to the concept of security. The above criteria were divided into 5 main categories, which are the components of realizing a safe city from the sight of the Holy Quran and include:
secure city, individual security, social and economic security in the city, cultural security, mental and psychological security, and otherworldly security for human life. Ultimately, the components of a safe city can be classified into 3 dimensions and in accordance with the dimentions of human life.
the components of a safe city can be classified into 3 dimensions and in accordance with the dimentions of human life, and can include a) the material dimention of human life, b) the psychological dimention of human life, c) the spiritual dimention of human life.
The research method of this qualitative research is using the qualitative content analysis method and with an exploratory approach. The main source and reference for collecting information is the Holy Quran, along with it, related religious texts, including authentic religious statements and narrations, including related interpretative books, were also used.
In the research process, 40 verses of the Holy Quran related to the concept of security were selected. Using the coding method, initial codes and, in later stages, subcategories and main categories were extracted from the verses.
The results of the research show that, from the sight of the Holy Quran, security is a comprehensive concept and a safe city is a multidimensional concept that is raised in different dimentonss of human life.
On this basis and corresponding to the pillars and characteristics of urban society, 18 criteria were extracted in relation to the concept of security. The above criteria were divided into 5 main categories, which are the components of realizing a safe city from the sight of the Holy Quran and include:
secure city, individual security, social and economic security in the city, cultural security, mental and psychological security, and otherworldly security for human life. Ultimately, the components of a safe city can be classified into 3 dimensions and in accordance with the dimentions of human life.
the components of a safe city can be classified into 3 dimensions and in accordance with the dimentions of human life, and can include a) the material dimention of human life, b) the psychological dimention of human life, c) the spiritual dimention of human life.
Sayyedmohsen Hajisayyedjavadi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
The Chehel Sotoun Palace (Čehel Sotūn), located in the city of Qazvin, which was designated as the capital during the reign of Shah Tahmāsp Safavid, holds a special significance in the history of Iranian art. This is due not only to its unique architectural value but also to its rich collection of murals and exquisite, diverse architectural ornaments. Among the surviving palaces of the Safavid era, the Chehel Sotoun Palace of Qazvin is recognized as the initial example (or precursor) showcasing Safavid art in architecture, serving as a prelude to the famous palaces later built in Isfahan. In this palace, Laye-Chīnī (Pastiglia layer) and Talā-Časbān (gilding) were fundamentally employed in the decoration of the murals. These techniques were crucial in emphasizing the motifs (giving them prominence) and utilizing the visually appealing luster of gold color, thereby lending a distinctive aesthetic to the them. The various layers of painting and ornamentation found in the Chehel Sotoun Palace indicate the continuation of artistic and restoration activities throughout different historical periods after the Safavid era, leading to the formation of diverse ornamental layers with different styles and characteristics in the structure. Some of the palace's ornamental motifs were detached from the wall surface using the stacco method during the repair work for conservation and restoration. However, many ornamentations have remained on the structure. The main remnants of the Lay-Chīnī and Talā-Časbān ornamentation are located in the central part of the building. Characteristic gilded ornaments are preserved, especially on the wainscots of the upper story. The present study is analytical-descriptive in nature and qualitative in approach, based on direct observation of the artifacts. The results indicate that in the Laye-Chīnī and Talā-Časbān ornamentation of the Chehel Sotoun Palace of Qazvin, Safavid artists utilized a considerable variety of Eslimi (arabesque), Khatā'i (floral), and bird motifs in combination. The visual structure of this ornament is deliberately based on aesthetic concepts such as symmetrical balance, rhythm, and alternating repetition. The Laye-Chīnī and Talā-Časbān ornamentation, by creating prominence and the brilliance of golden surfaces, has given the motifs depth and a three-dimensional effect, creating a luxurious and fantastical space that demonstrates the high skill of the Qazvin artistic school in combining form, color, and technique. This research aims to identify, introduce, and examine the motifs of the Laye-Chīnī and Talā-Časbān ornamentation of this palace to assist future researchers in the process of motif re-identification.
Hadis Alimohammadi, Hasan Sajadzadeh,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
Iranian takiyehs, which epitomize the link among time, place, and people, are unique as they are the only open urban spaces with religious function in the Muslim urban-planning culture. Understanding the architectural features applying design principles in such buildings can effectively contribute ti the key continuity of a cultuer in the environment and ti the identity of the Iraniancity.Many studies on Tekaya have sought to introduce Sufi monasteries as the first architecturalmodel in the formation of Tekaya and Hussainiyeh,but other research has rejected this hypothesis and believes that the monasteries lacked social visual quality,especially in collecteve perceptions,and therefore the judicial qualities of Takaya should be sought in other architectural models.Since the Safavid period,most Iranian Islamic architectural models have had a kind of organized open collective judicialsystem that includes the sub-neighborhood scale of the family courtyard-the scale of the urban village –the caravanserai.
Among these models, the four main examples of hosing, mosque,school andcaravanserai present characteristics that,whil being of interest to the commonalities, each has specificities in terms of judicial order that could have been perceived by the builders of Takaya and Hussiniyeh.The aim of the research is to determine by extracting the results and answering the researchquestions what factors influenced the architectural model of Tekyeh Moavem al-Molk in its structure or which of the four main Iranian Islamic architectural models is more suitable for onducting research using the method Qualitative and descriptive-analytical methods have been used.Data collection tools: library studies, field observations and comparison of findings or other studies and hypotheses have been presented.The results of the research show that following the central ciurtyard plan,considering the cold climatic conditions of the region and paying attention to the issue of introversion,as well as the intention of hts socio-religious function,which indicates the role and effect of rituals in creating its qualities and judicial pattern,in the combination or characteristics of the daily architecture of the region and the principle of judicial hierarcgy or the use of unique religious decorations of the judicial organization- kalidi has shaped the Tekyeh of Moaven al-Molk and made it a lanmark architectural building in the Middle Qajar era.
Among these models, the four main examples of hosing, mosque,school andcaravanserai present characteristics that,whil being of interest to the commonalities, each has specificities in terms of judicial order that could have been perceived by the builders of Takaya and Hussiniyeh.The aim of the research is to determine by extracting the results and answering the researchquestions what factors influenced the architectural model of Tekyeh Moavem al-Molk in its structure or which of the four main Iranian Islamic architectural models is more suitable for onducting research using the method Qualitative and descriptive-analytical methods have been used.Data collection tools: library studies, field observations and comparison of findings or other studies and hypotheses have been presented.The results of the research show that following the central ciurtyard plan,considering the cold climatic conditions of the region and paying attention to the issue of introversion,as well as the intention of hts socio-religious function,which indicates the role and effect of rituals in creating its qualities and judicial pattern,in the combination or characteristics of the daily architecture of the region and the principle of judicial hierarcgy or the use of unique religious decorations of the judicial organization- kalidi has shaped the Tekyeh of Moaven al-Molk and made it a lanmark architectural building in the Middle Qajar era.
Dr Mahsa Javadi Nodeh,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
The historical origins of the Narin Qal'eh complex in Ardabil date back to a period preceding the Qajar dynasty. Following its reconstruction for military purposes during the Qajar era, the complex emerged as one of the most significant architectural structures of its time. Nevertheless, it was entirely demolished during the early Pahlavi period, and today, only its name remains. Given the scarcity of documented sources regarding the architectural structure of the complex and the lack of comprehensive information about its spatial configuration, this study aims—perhaps for the first time—to conduct a spatial and physical analysis of the complex based on historical records and functional characteristics. Accordingly, the research identifies key criteria within the physical structure that align with its functional aspects and outlines the analytical framework used to uncover the spatial principles and meaningful architectural concepts embedded in the various functions of the Narin Qal'eh complex.
This qualitative study, grounded in library-based research and content analysis, employs a deductive approach to determine the overall structural framework of the complex. Exploratory investigations are also incorporated to refine the research through hypothesis testing. The study identifies several key criteria derived from the functional and physical representation of the complex, including: spatial diversity (enclosed, semi-open, and open spaces), functional variety (primary and auxiliary uses), movement circulation (hierarchical grading), access circulation (spatial, functional, and hierarchical), and spatial organization (centralized and axial systems). The auxiliary functions—such as religious, residential, and service-oriented spaces—were organized around the primary functions, which included defensive, military, and governmental uses. These primary functions were prioritized within an axial spatial system, emphasizing movement circulation and functional adjacency to enhance spatial quality. In contrast, auxiliary functions followed a centralized spatial system, occupying secondary priorities and often exhibiting hierarchical adjacency. Furthermore, the internal organization of spaces was shaped by climatic strategies and performance-based architectural techniques, reflecting a premeditated, coherent pattern consistent with the principles of Iranian architecture in the interior spatial design of the complex.
This qualitative study, grounded in library-based research and content analysis, employs a deductive approach to determine the overall structural framework of the complex. Exploratory investigations are also incorporated to refine the research through hypothesis testing. The study identifies several key criteria derived from the functional and physical representation of the complex, including: spatial diversity (enclosed, semi-open, and open spaces), functional variety (primary and auxiliary uses), movement circulation (hierarchical grading), access circulation (spatial, functional, and hierarchical), and spatial organization (centralized and axial systems). The auxiliary functions—such as religious, residential, and service-oriented spaces—were organized around the primary functions, which included defensive, military, and governmental uses. These primary functions were prioritized within an axial spatial system, emphasizing movement circulation and functional adjacency to enhance spatial quality. In contrast, auxiliary functions followed a centralized spatial system, occupying secondary priorities and often exhibiting hierarchical adjacency. Furthermore, the internal organization of spaces was shaped by climatic strategies and performance-based architectural techniques, reflecting a premeditated, coherent pattern consistent with the principles of Iranian architecture in the interior spatial design of the complex.
Dr Ali Sadeghi Habibabad,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Volume 14, Issue 2 (5-2026)
Abstract
The sense of spiritual place, as a qualitative dimension in the perception of religious environments, plays a crucial role in shaping users’ lived experiences and their interactions with such spaces. This concept is closely associated with constructs such as sense of place, identity, and spatial experience, and has the potential to enhance the quality of spiritual perception in religious settings. Despite its significance, however, the mechanisms through which physical and sensory factors contribute to the formation of the sense of spiritual place (particularly in Iranian religious environments) have not been systematically and empirically examined. Accordingly, the main research question of this study is to what extent physical and sensory components influence the formation of the sense of spiritual place in the shrine of Hazrat Abdolazim (PBUH), and how other contextual factors can be explained within this process. The aim of this study is to analyze and explain the impact of physical and sensory factors on the formation of the sense of spiritual place in the shrine of Hazrat Abdolazim (PBUH), while also examining the role of socio-individual and functional factors as complementary influencing variables. In terms of purpose, this research is applied, and in terms of methodology, it adopts a survey-based exploratory approach. The required data were collected using a questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale. The statistical population consisted of experts in Islamic architecture and environmental psychology, from which 140 participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and SmartPLS software, and the relationships among variables were examined through structural equation modeling (SEM) and path analysis. The findings indicate that physical and sensory components have a positive and significant effect on strengthening the sense of spiritual place and are identified as the most influential factors in shaping this perception within the studied environment. Furthermore, the results reveal that socio-individual and functional factors act as complementary variables, reinforcing this relationship and increasing the magnitude of these effects. Overall, it can be concluded that simultaneous attention to physical, sensory, and social dimensions in the design and organization of religious spaces plays a decisive role in enhancing the quality of users’ spiritual perception, while also fostering a stronger sense of belonging, presence, and deeper spiritual experience in such environments.
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