Architectural Technologies Studies

Abstract Elderly is an age of dealing with specific physical and psychological limitations, and attention to spiritual needs, along with physical needs, has particular importance. The growing population of elders, and changes in individual and family lifestyles, have led to an increase in the number of nursing homes. But psychologically, these homes are viewed as a symbol of isolation and society tendency to reject them. Therefore, what needs attention, is the creation of a space, that while providing physical, material and emotional support, conforms to age conditions and crises that lead to the limitation and separation of the elderly from society. This study aims to provide strategies to improve the level of satisfaction and increase sense of belonging in the nursing home environment. To this end, after reviewing literature, and designing a questionnaire combining standard samples of life satisfaction and sense of belonging, and constructing a survey on physical factors, we surveyed the opinions of 123 elderly people living in the Ardebil Nursing Home. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.24 software. The results of the correlation test show that there is a positive relationship between environmental factors and elders' satisfaction and sense of belonging. Also, regression test result shows that among environmental factors, environmental vitality has the most influence on providing satisfaction and sense of belonging. After that, green space and light, visual appeal, environmental capability and freedom of action have a positive impact. The results also show that with increasing age, the rate of satisfaction and sense of belonging decreases.

Abstract The rapid expansion of cities and uncontrolled population growth have led to numerous challenges. Therefore, urban tourism, especially in developing countries like Iran, presents an economic advantage that can accelerate the development process. Given that the city of Hamedan holds significant potential as a major tourist attraction, this study aims to investigate, identify, and analyze the factors influencing urban tourism development, assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) in tourism, and propose strategies to enhance the tourism industry in Hamedan. The research methodology in this study combines both field and analytical approaches. In the first phase, research hypotheses and indicators were distributed via questionnaires among 355 tourists, and their correlations were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation test in SPSS software. The questionnaire's validity was established as face validity, and reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, resulting in values of 0.70 for the first hypothesis, 0.68 for the second, and 0.73 for the third. The results revealed no significant relationship between the development of Hamedan's tourism industry and the indicators of the first hypothesis. Additionally, the third hypothesis, suggesting low satisfaction among tourists with urban services in Hamedan, was rejected. However, the second hypothesis, which posited a significant relationship between the integration of tourism organizations and the development of Hamedan’s tourism, was confirmed. In the second phase, the SWOT analysis and the internal-external factors matrix (IEFM) were used to propose strategies for improving tourism industry in Hamedan. Subsequently, the strategies were prioritized using the QSPM method. The results indicate that attracting private sector investments to enhance accommodation and recreational infrastructure and leveraging the city’s rich historical, cultural, and natural attractions are among the most significant strategies for advancing Hamedan’s tourism industry.

Abstract This study investigates the role of architectural design in enhancing user experience and increasing satisfaction among deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals within educational spaces. Educational spaces, as key environments for growth and learning, require designs that address the specific needs of users and foster effective interaction between individuals and their environment. Despite the importance of this issue, the needs of the deaf community have often been insufficiently addressed in Iranian architectural practices. This research focuses on the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing students, emphasizing the significance of human-centered design. It aims to transform educational learning environments in a way that not only enhances user satisfaction but also play a pivotal role in improving the quality of educational experiences and strengthening social interactions. Furthermore, this study seeks to offer practical recommendations, providing a functional model for architects and designers, that will leave a lasting impact on education and contribute to sustainable social development. The research  employs an environmental psychology framework and qualitative methods, including structured observations and in-depth interviews, to identify spatial preferences in educational environments tailored for deaf individuals. The data were systematically analyzed using Atlas.ti software. The findings indicate that centralized designs, circular layouts, and the incorporation of diverse textures, appropriate color schemes, and strategic lighting are fundamental elements in enhancing the visual and communicative experiences of deaf individuals. Additionally, the availability of communication technologies and supportive facilities significantly elevates the quality of learning and social engagement for this community.

Abstract Children are the most sensitive and impressionable age group in society, playing a crucial role in the renewal of each generation. Without attention to child development, cognition, and education, societal progress is hindered. Architects and psychologists have highlighted the importance of light, color, and play in the built environment on learning and behavioral success. Studies also emphasize the negative impacts of excessive noise in learning environments. The study aims to evaluate the impact of environmental development stimuli on sensory perception in second-grade primary school students to enhance space efficiency in educational environments. The research employs a mixed-methods approach (both quantitative and qualitative). Initially, it involves document collection and analysis of various factors affecting environmental development. Subsequently, the overall school plan was examined using Depthmap software. Semi-structured interviews with the students and teachers provided insights into their opinions, values, and behaviors within the educational environment. Statistical analysis was conducted using questionnaire data and spss26 software to explore data relationships. In the following, according to the coefficients obtained from the research variables, graphs are produced. The results reveal that the key indicators impacting children's sensory perception in educational environments are, in order of importance: flexible space (14.93), spatial diversity (15.32), multifunctional spaces (14.76), and play areas (14.71).

Abstract Architectural concepts have been continuously reviewed and critiqued throughout history. Form, as a fundamental and primary concept of architecture, has always had a direct impact on architects' designs. It reflects the value system and is considered one of the foundational aspects of architecture. The term “morphing” originates from the word “form” and refers to the transformation form from one shape to another while maintaining continuity and adopting a new state. In fact, morphing signifies the transition of geometric shapes. The Porto Music House, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is considered as a case study for examining the morphing architectural style. Koolhaas is an architect known for embracing the impossible, as well as designing and executing diverse buildings in different styles. The Porto Music House is his most successful work and is critically reviewed in this research. This study highlights the significance of exploring how educational services redefine the way audiences interact with cultural institutions and, more broadly, with artistic performance and creativity. The current research investigates morphing architecture and the factors affecting the formation of the Porto Music House. The current research will be redeveloped with descriptive and integrated method of "quantitative" research from theory to case study, "qualitative" from study sample to theory of concepts. The analysis carried out between the morphing principles and the Porto Music House reveals that the design of Casa da Música represents morphing architecture. The elements of this style —such as transformation, continuity, complexity, and integration— can be clearly seen in this building.

Abstract Traditional Iranian houses exhibit unique complexities due to their cultural layers. Family culture and behavioral patterns are the primary factors in shaping the spatial configuration of Iranian houses. The spatial configuration of the house was shaped by the cohabitation of multiple related families living together. These culture and behavioral patterns have influenced the spatial structure in the comparative study of the selected study. The main objective of this research is to analyze how behavioral patterns rooted in culture shape the spatial configuration of an Iranian house, specifically Amini's House in Qazvin. The key question of this research is that what are the defining cultural characteristics in the spatial structure of the Iranian house and how is the impact of each on the spatial configuration of the houses? The research employs a content analysis approach combined with descriptive methods. An interpretive-historical analysis was conducted to explore cultural relationships in this Qajar-era mansion and to identify the factors influencing traditional Iranian family system patterns. Subsequently, the descriptive method was applied to examine the activity systems and spatial organization of this traditional house based on existing sources. Additionally, in-depth interviews and detailed observations were also conducted with the members of Amini family in Qazvin to analyze how kinship relationships, cultural norms, and behavioral patterns influenced the  activity systems and spatial structure of the house. The findings demonstrate a direct relationship between spatial configuration and cultural characteristics, as well as behavioral patterns, all of which reflect a specific and precise cultural framework embedded within the spatial structure of the house.