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

Seyedeh Maryam Moosavi, Còssima Cornadó and Reza Askarizad ()
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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

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 3, 1-30

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.

Keywords: Persian architecture; socio-cultural reflections; historic residential houses; cultural heritage; spatial diversity; space syntax (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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