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Analyzing the Influence of Residents’ Sociocultural Reflections on the Spatial Configuration of Historical Persian Residential Architecture

Author

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  • Seyedeh Maryam Moosavi

    (Architectural Technology Department, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya—Barcelona Tech, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Còssima Cornadó

    (Architectural Technology Department, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya—Barcelona Tech, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Reza Askarizad

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture (DICAAR), University of Cagliari, Via Marengo 2, 09123 Cagliari, Italy)

Abstract

This research investigates the relationship between socio-cultural reflections of residents and spatial diversity in historic Persian residential architecture. Despite the rich architectural heritage of Persian houses, there is limited understanding of how residents’ socio-cultural background influences their spatial arrangements. To address this gap, this study employs space syntax analysis, including axial, visibility graph analysis (VGA), agent-based analysis, and isovist approaches, to explore the genotype of 15 recognized Persian historic residential architectures. The findings reveal that the spatial configurations of these houses are deeply rooted in socio-cultural values, reflecting the diverse societal roles of residents. Variations in spatial arrangements highlight the adaptability of Persian historical houses in balancing privacy and sociability, influenced by the socio-cultural attributes of their occupants. The study also emphasizes the significance of transitional spaces in controlling social interactions with strangers to support cultural practices. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing a syntactic analysis of the socio-cultural underpinnings of Persian architectural typologies, offering insights that extend beyond Shiraz to the broader central Iranian context. The study concludes by advocating for practical policy implications and culturally rooted architectural design guidelines for Iranian construction engineering organizations to implement in their housing design projects. These insights can ultimately inform the development of contemporary housing in Iran, fostering a new wave of housing that is both culturally resonant and functionally innovative, while supporting socially sustainable living environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Seyedeh Maryam Moosavi & Còssima Cornadó & Reza Askarizad, 2025. "Analyzing the Influence of Residents’ Sociocultural Reflections on the Spatial Configuration of Historical Persian Residential Architecture," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-30, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:3:p:879-:d:1573670
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Mohammed Mashary Alnaim & Emad Noaime, 2024. "Spatial Dynamics and Social Order in Traditional Towns of Saudi Arabia’s Nadji Region: The Role of Neighborhood Clustering in Urban Morphology and Decision-Making Processes," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(7), pages 1-23, March.
    2. Asmaa AL-Mohannadi & Raffaello Furlan & Mark David Major, 2020. "A Cultural Heritage Framework for Preserving Qatari Vernacular Domestic Architecture," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(18), pages 1-26, September.
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