Traditional Iranian architecture was a reflection of the beliefs, worldview, and culture of its time, intended to represent its principles and values. The concept of frugality has always been regarded as a significant value in traditional architecture. Traditional architecture not only emphasized frugality in design and nature but also prioritized the integration of green spaces with buildings. However, in contemporary architecture, the connection between green spaces and built structures is often neglected. Accordingly, the aim of this study is to explore the various dimensions of the manifestation of the concept of frugality in the architecture of Iranian gardens and to provide a basis for its application in contemporary architectural patterns. The research questions are: 1. What are the components of frugality from the perspective of Islamic thought? 2. How has it been manifested in the architecture of Iranian gardens (which are the product of past behavioral culture)? 3. What strategies and solutions can be offered for contemporary architecture (in relation to nature)? These questions are addressed using a descriptive-analytical method. The data collection is based on library research, and the statistical population includes four residential gardens in Iran: Narenjestan-e Ghavam Garden in Shiraz, Delgosha Garden in Shiraz, Golshan Garden in Tabas, and Dowlatabad Garden in Yazd. The research findings indicate that frugality can be analyzed in three layers. The innermost layer is the core of Islamic teachings, which refers to the two concepts of frugality and avoidance of wastefulness and extravagance in Quranic verses and narrations. The next outer layer is the culture of frugality in the Islamic lifestyle, divided into two groups: moral values and geographical and climatic conditions. The outermost third layer consists of Pirnia’s principles, which include self-sufficiency and avoidance of futility, both rooted in the concept of frugality and avoidance of wastefulness and extravagance. Overall, it can be stated that the manifestation and reflection of all these components are observable in the four Iranian gardens. Architects, considering the concept of frugality, have attempted to design and construct environments integrated with green spaces. However, the study concludes that the component of Islamic teachings has had a significant influence on the manifestation of frugality in Iranian gardens, as it forms the core and inner layer. The components of the culture of frugality in lifestyle and Pirnia’s principles are also influenced by Islamic teachings. Moreover, based on the conducted analyses, strategies and solutions have been proposed for contemporary architecture. These components can be applied in contemporary architecture in areas such as planting systems, water management, buildings, and the materials used.
