Architectural Technologies Studies

Abstract Poor indoor air quality and elevated CO₂ levels in healthcare environments—due to inadequate ventilation and unfavorable environmental conditions—can compromise thermal comfort and endanger staff health. Appropriate architectural design, including optimized ventilation, daylighting, and spatial organization, can help prevent CO₂ buildup, reduce fatigue, and enhance staff performance.The aim of this study was to examine the effect of elevated CO₂ concentrations on staff fatigue and thermal comfort in healthcare facilities. An experimental study was conducted in a specialized clinic in Ilam, Iran. The study population consisted of 20 healthcare staff members working in a basement-level laboratory. Participants were randomly assigned to exposure to two different CO₂ concentrations: 1100 ppm with mechanical ventilation and 1800 ppm without mechanical ventilation.During exposure, heart rate measurements, thermal comfort assessments (using the ASHRAE standard questionnaire), and fatigue evaluations (using the standardized Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, MFI) were recorded. Data were analyzed using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA).Findings revealed that higher CO₂ concentrations (1800 ppm without ventilation compared to 1100 ppm with ventilation) had a significant impact on general, physical, and mental fatigue, as well as a decrease in staff activity and motivation (p < 0.05). Furthermore, thermal discomfort during work activities significantly contributed to general, physical, and mental fatigue (p < 0.05). Increased heart rate was also significantly associated with general fatigue and reduced activity and motivation (p < 0.05). However, the interaction effects between these factors were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).Among the various dimensions of fatigue, general fatigue emerged as the most influential factor, followed by physical and mental fatigue.According to ASHRAE standards and the results of this study, elevated CO₂ concentrations (1800 ppm vs. 1100 ppm) in healthcare environments can adversely affect fatigue levels and thermal comfort, potentially leading to serious long-term health issues for staff. The findings also demonstrated that higher CO₂ levels cause thermal discomfort, elevated heart rates, and increased general, physical, and mental fatigue, ultimately reducing staff activity and motivation.Thus, implementing effective ventilation systems and continuous monitoring of indoor air quality are essential strategies for enhancing staff performance and safeguarding the health of employees in healthcare environments.

Abstract Iranian residential architecture, particularly under the influence of Islamic teachings, plays a significant role in addressing the spiritual and material needs of its inhabitants. This study investigates the manifestation of Islamic teachings in the design of traditional houses in the Sabzevar region, focusing on the Aldaghi and Jafarzadeh houses from the Qajar period. The aim of the research is to extract Islamic criteria for designing tranquil homes that, by drawing on Quranic principles and Islamic narrations, can create an environment harmonious with human needs and Iranian culture. This qualitative research was conducted by collecting data through documentary and library methods, analyzing Islamic texts and documents, and employing logical reasoning to examine the manifestation of Islamic principles and values in the historical Aldaghi and Jafarzadeh houses from the Qajar era. The analysis of these houses reveals that Iranian architects adhered to principles such as privacy and seclusion, balance and proportion, aesthetics, the use of geometry and spatial hierarchy, and an emphasis on solitude and tranquility. Additionally, the use of natural materials and a lifestyle aligned with the culture of the region’s people are prominent features of these houses. The findings suggest that by returning to these wise teachings, the quality and spirituality of contemporary housing can be enhanced. Adhering to these Islamic values not only ensures the sustainability and durability of structures but also fosters the psychological and social well-being of residents.

Abstract Green buildings, designed today with a focus on energy efficiency, emphasize energy and resource performance while often paying less attention to indoor air quality (IAQ). The lack of optimal indoor air quality in many of these buildings disrupts occupants’ health and may lead to irreversible damage. This article, with a practical aim of elucidating opportunities for improving indoor air quality, investigates the challenges associated with IAQ in green buildings. To this end, the study first reviews the definitions of green buildings and indoor air quality, examining how green buildings address IAQ through a documentary and library-based research method. Subsequently, employing a descriptive-analytical approach, the study compares the indoor air quality of green and conventional buildings, identifying so-called "green" measures that adversely affect IAQ. Through qualitative content analysis, a set of strategies for improving indoor air quality is proposed. The findings indicate that, although the perceived indoor air quality in green buildings is generally higher than in conventional buildings, being "green" does not necessarily guarantee superior IAQ. Based on a synthesis of theoretical data, in addition to ventilation, emphasis should be placed on strategies such as source control and reducing occupants’ exposure to pollutants. Proposed strategies for enhancing IAQ include mandating compliance with indoor air quality guidelines for key pollutants, awarding points in green building certifications for reducing and minimizing pollutants, developing IAQ indicators and criteria, providing incentives for testing the emission levels of building materials, conducting regular IAQ monitoring, and assessing the interactive effects of solutions on other green building production criteria in relation to IAQ.

Abstract Schools have long been among the most important places for imparting knowledge and nurturing the spiritual development of children, and the impact of their environment on personality formation in adulthood is undeniable. This study aims to demonstrate the relationship between school courtyards and green spaces and the promotion of spiritual education among elementary school students. Accordingly, the key research question is: How can the connection between school green spaces and Islamic thought be analyzed to enhance the spiritual growth of elementary students?The research starts with a primary hypothesis and is based on previous foundational studies. It seeks to examine the relationship between the physical structure and architectural elements of the Persian garden used in school courtyards and students’ familiarity with the origin and essence of creation, aiming to promote spiritual education within the educational spaces of elementary schools.This applied research employs both qualitative and quantitative approaches to answer the research questions. In the first phase (qualitative), the principles and architectural criteria of educational buildings designed by integrating traditional school courtyards were extracted. In the next phase, using an analytical method, the obtained criteria were examined in Iranian schools, and the values and design strategies of school courtyards were evaluated and analyzed.An observational and analytical study was conducted on several sample schools, which contributed to the final pattern formulation.Findings indicate that the presence of courtyards designed in the style of Persian gardens with garden geometry and pools can guide children towards spiritual education and elevated personal growth.

Abstract Accessibility in urban public spaces is one of the foundations for achieving spatial justice and a fundamental indicator in assessing the quality of the environment for all segments of society, especially people with physical and motor disabilities. In many Iranian cities, including Pardis, sidewalk furniture faces serious deficiencies in terms of placement, design, and adaptation to the special needs of users. These deficiencies have led to the formation of physical barriers, unwanted social exclusion, and limited social interactions and the active presence of people with disabilities in urban spaces. Neglect of the principles of inclusive and human-centered design, along with non-compliance with global accessibility standards, has prevented these spaces from fulfilling their inclusive role. The present study aims to analyze the current status of sidewalk furniture in Pardis and provide efficient design solutions tailored to the needs of users with physical and motor disabilities. The research approach was descriptive-analytical, and data collection was carried out using systematic field observation methods, semi-structured interviews with users, and content analysis of urban documents. The findings show that the lack of standard ramps, the lack of provision for lateral space for wheelchairs, slippery floors, narrow paths, and the lack of information boards at appropriate heights were among the factors affecting accessibility and the quality of user experience. Accordingly, a design framework based on the principles of spatial justice, universal and human-centered design has been developed, which, while improving the performance of sidewalk furniture, can be used to review urban management policies and promote the inclusiveness of public spaces.

Abstract Nowadays, public spaces and services such as cafes and restaurants, regardless of their functional role, play a role as a social platform for the emergence of interpersonal interactions and actions. The quality of the interior design of these spaces can directly affect the perception of users, their presence, participation and social behavior. The present study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the components of environmental capabilities affecting the interior design of semi-private public spaces with an emphasis on the foundations of social behavior. The case study of this research is the historical building of "Heritage" in the city of Qazvin, which is currently used as a cafe and restaurant. The research method was combined (quantitative-qualitative) and data collection was carried out through library studies and field observations. Data analysis was carried out based on indicators extracted from theoretical foundations in the field of environmental quality, spatial perception and behavioral patterns. The findings show that spatial features such as readability, functional diversity, flexibility in layout, human scale, and visual perception play an important role in increasing social interactions, a sense of belonging, and active presence of users. Among them, spaces that had appropriate spatial structure, clear boundaries, and multi-purpose usability showed the highest social function. The results of the study indicate that the interior design of public spaces should be based on a deep understanding of the behavioral, social, and psychological needs of users, and the use of behavioral patterns and analysis of environmental capabilities can play a key role in improving the quality of user experience and developing social capital.