Tarbiat Modares University Naqshejahan- Basic studies and New Technologies of Architecture and Planning 2322-4991 16 1 2026 05 10 Identification of Effective Flexible Design Concepts for Affordable Housing through the Research by Design Method Identification of Effective Flexible Design Concepts for Affordable Housing through the Research by Design Method 1 26 27799 10.48311/bsnt.2025.74999.0 FA Aniseh Khayat Kholghy MSc in Architecture, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran Neda Sadat Sahragard Monfared assistant professor of Iran university of science and technology 0000-0002-7459-4900 Seyed Abbas Yazdanfar Associate Professor, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran 0000-0002-0719-6961 Journal Article 2025 08 08 Aims: Providing affordable housing for social groups is one of society’s most pressing challenges. A flexible approach with diverse solutions can facilitate housing affordability. This study adopts a design-based research method, aiming to identify the most effective flexible design concepts for affordable housing. Method: A mixed-method approach is used. First, components of flexible and affordable housing design were identified using a descriptive method, and their relationships were established within a goal-content framework serving as the study’s theoretical basis. Then, through “research through design” method, 12 case studies emphasizing flexibility in affordable housing analyzed based on this framework, resulting in the extraction and classification of 30 design ideas. Findings: The most frequently cited ideas in these case studies include “modular design and open structures” (under the structural systems category), and “dry connections of prefabricated components which allow for modifications and repairs,” (under connection systems). Based on the context, several ideas combined and enhanced to develop new design concepts. Conclusion: The results show that the most impactful design concepts—based on the frequency of their influence on affordable housing components. Those listed as connecting repetitive modules to create divisible and expandable units that respond to social needs. Diverse configurations tailored to different sites for maximum utilization and adaptability. A core module with fixed and movable spaces to support variety and non-material needs. In addition, prefabricated modular structures integrated with vertical circulation elements and simple forms that harmonize with the surrounding environment. Aims: Providing affordable housing for social groups is one of society’s most pressing challenges. A flexible approach with diverse solutions can facilitate housing affordability. This study adopts a design-based research method, aiming to identify the most effective flexible design concepts for affordable housing. Method: A mixed-method approach is used. First, components of flexible and affordable housing design were identified using a descriptive method, and their relationships were established within a goal-content framework serving as the study’s theoretical basis. Then, through “research through design” method, 12 case studies emphasizing flexibility in affordable housing analyzed based on this framework, resulting in the extraction and classification of 30 design ideas. Findings: The most frequently cited ideas in these case studies include “modular design and open structures” (under the structural systems category), and “dry connections of prefabricated components which allow for modifications and repairs,” (under connection systems). Based on the context, several ideas combined and enhanced to develop new design concepts. Conclusion: The results show that the most impactful design concepts—based on the frequency of their influence on affordable housing components. Those listed as connecting repetitive modules to create divisible and expandable units that respond to social needs. Diverse configurations tailored to different sites for maximum utilization and adaptability. A core module with fixed and movable spaces to support variety and non-material needs. In addition, prefabricated modular structures integrated with vertical circulation elements and simple forms that harmonize with the surrounding environment.

https://bsnt.modares.ac.ir/article_27799_a46e10627f49a5333cdcd0b700790f8b.pdf

Tarbiat Modares University Naqshejahan- Basic studies and New Technologies of Architecture and Planning 2322-4991 16 1 2026 04 21 Cooling load reduction through the optimization of the external envelope of Qazvin high-rise residential buildings based on sensitivity analysis Cooling load reduction through the optimization of the external envelope of Qazvin high-rise residential buildings based on sensitivity analysis 27 56 27784 10.48311/bsnt.2025.75024.0 FA Zahra Karimi PhD Candidate, Architecture, Faculty of Arts, Tarbiat Modares University Afsaneh Zarkesh Assistant Professor, Faculty of Arts, Tarbiat Modares University Journal Article 2025 11 03 Aims: Given the changes in climatic conditions and the global warming trend, energy conservation in the cooling sector has become one of the leading factors in current research. The main objective of this research was to reduce the energy consumption in the cooling sector of existing high-rise residential buildings in Qazvin city. This was achieved by optimizing various design variables of the building's exterior envelope, including the type of glazing, window shading devices, roof shading, and thermal insulation of the exterior walls. Methods: The research methodology in this study is mixed-methods, involving qualitative aspects (studies on theoretical foundations) and quantitative aspects, energy simulation using the DesignBuilder software. Findings: The Design Builder software was utilized to perform a sensitivity analysis on 3 parameters, encompassing 23 implementable variables in the existing building, to simultaneously evaluate their impact on the cooling load. The best selected solution for variables with a high impact factor was based on minimizing the cooling load. Finally, various states were considered for each variable, and the optimal variable was achieved through parametric analysis. By combining these optimal variables in the existing building model, an energy-efficient model for similar buildings was obtained. Conclusion: The results indicate that the final model, which is introduced as the optimized building, achieved a reduction of approximately 45.47% in the building's cooling load. This reduction in energy consumption decreases the amount of greenhouse gases resulting from energy use, which are themselves a cause of global warming, and also provides thermal comfort conditions through these factors. Aims: Given the changes in climatic conditions and the global warming trend, energy conservation in the cooling sector has become one of the leading factors in current research. The main objective of this research was to reduce the energy consumption in the cooling sector of existing high-rise residential buildings in Qazvin city. This was achieved by optimizing various design variables of the building's exterior envelope, including the type of glazing, window shading devices, roof shading, and thermal insulation of the exterior walls. Methods: The research methodology in this study is mixed-methods, involving qualitative aspects (studies on theoretical foundations) and quantitative aspects, energy simulation using the DesignBuilder software. Findings: The Design Builder software was utilized to perform a sensitivity analysis on 3 parameters, encompassing 23 implementable variables in the existing building, to simultaneously evaluate their impact on the cooling load. The best selected solution for variables with a high impact factor was based on minimizing the cooling load. Finally, various states were considered for each variable, and the optimal variable was achieved through parametric analysis. By combining these optimal variables in the existing building model, an energy-efficient model for similar buildings was obtained. Conclusion: The results indicate that the final model, which is introduced as the optimized building, achieved a reduction of approximately 45.47% in the building's cooling load. This reduction in energy consumption decreases the amount of greenhouse gases resulting from energy use, which are themselves a cause of global warming, and also provides thermal comfort conditions through these factors.

https://bsnt.modares.ac.ir/article_27784_3fb2e1b55397557a0f3e4370d3ae2073.pdf

Tarbiat Modares University Naqshejahan- Basic studies and New Technologies of Architecture and Planning 2322-4991 16 1 2026 04 21 From Criteria to Construction: An Integrated Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for Optimal Wall and Façade System Selection From Criteria to Construction: An Integrated Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for Optimal Wall and Façade System Selection 57 74 28173 10.48311/bsnt.2025.117463.82891 FA Hamed Keikha Structural Retrofitting and Reconstruction Research Group, Natural Disaster Research Institute (NDRI), Tehran, Iran. 0000-0001-9932-8118 Journal Article 2025 11 03 Aims: The selection of building envelope systems in Iranian construction is often subjective, lacking a systematic, evidence-based framework. This absence negatively impacts long-term building performance, cost efficiency, and overall sustainability. This research aims to develop a comprehensive Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model for the systematic assessment and optimal selection of non-load-bearing wall and façade systems, specifically targeting mass housing projects. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study identified 22 common systems and a comprehensive set of key evaluation criteria through extensive literature review and structured expert interviews. The relative importance (weights) of these criteria were quantified by professionals using a reliable Likert-scale questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.885 for walls, 0.884 for façades). A second detailed questionnaire evaluated the performance of each system against these weighted criteria, with the analysis also considering Iran’s three major climatic zones. Findings: For wall systems, "Nailability," "Weight," and "Enhancement of Space Efficiency" were identified as the most critical criteria, with AAC wall panels and AAC blocks ranking as the top-performing options. For façade systems, "Labor Cost," "Physical Durability," and "Material Cost" were the highest-priority factors, favoring Precast Concrete Façades and Dry Stone Façades. Region-specific rankings and detailed insights for climate-responsive design were also generated. Conclusion: The primary outcomes are an adaptable analytical tool to help designers and managers select optimal system combinations based on project specifics, and a set of detailed executive drawings for the nine top-performing combinations. This research provides a structured, multi-criteria framework that enhances decision-making transparency, reduces subjectivity, and supports sustainable and cost-effective construction practices in Iran. Aims: The selection of building envelope systems in Iranian construction is often subjective, lacking a systematic, evidence-based framework. This absence negatively impacts long-term building performance, cost efficiency, and overall sustainability. This research aims to develop a comprehensive Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model for the systematic assessment and optimal selection of non-load-bearing wall and façade systems, specifically targeting mass housing projects. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study identified 22 common systems and a comprehensive set of key evaluation criteria through extensive literature review and structured expert interviews. The relative importance (weights) of these criteria were quantified by professionals using a reliable Likert-scale questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.885 for walls, 0.884 for façades). A second detailed questionnaire evaluated the performance of each system against these weighted criteria, with the analysis also considering Iran’s three major climatic zones. Findings: For wall systems, "Nailability," "Weight," and "Enhancement of Space Efficiency" were identified as the most critical criteria, with AAC wall panels and AAC blocks ranking as the top-performing options. For façade systems, "Labor Cost," "Physical Durability," and "Material Cost" were the highest-priority factors, favoring Precast Concrete Façades and Dry Stone Façades. Region-specific rankings and detailed insights for climate-responsive design were also generated. Conclusion: The primary outcomes are an adaptable analytical tool to help designers and managers select optimal system combinations based on project specifics, and a set of detailed executive drawings for the nine top-performing combinations. This research provides a structured, multi-criteria framework that enhances decision-making transparency, reduces subjectivity, and supports sustainable and cost-effective construction practices in Iran.

https://bsnt.modares.ac.ir/article_28173_d80f8d2f11bbd1a8ab728b02fa3cd66a.pdf

Tarbiat Modares University Naqshejahan- Basic studies and New Technologies of Architecture and Planning 2322-4991 16 1 2026 04 21 Interpretive Structural Modeling of Urban Form Elements for Developing a Theoretical Framework Grounded in Modern Construction Technologies Interpretive Structural Modeling of Urban Form Elements for Developing a Theoretical Framework Grounded in Modern Construction Technologies 75 104 28619 10.48311/bsnt.2026.117575.82893 FA Elham Ramezani PhD Candidate in architecture at Islamic Azad University, Birjand Branch, Birjand, Iran. 0009-0007-2372-6524 Reza Mirzaei assistant professor of the Department of Art and Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Birjand Branch, Birjand, Iran. 0000-0001-8769-0275 Mohsen Vafamehr Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran / Faculty of Art and Architecture, Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Khorasan Razavi, Iran 0000-0003-2951-1763 Seyed Moslem Seyedalhosseini Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Khorasan Razavi, Iran Journal Article 2025 11 09 Rapid technological advancements have instigated fundamental transformations in urban landscapes, posing challenges to the alignment with indigenous and cultural concepts. This paper aims to re-evaluate theoretical frameworks of urban form by modeling the structural-interpretive components of the urban landscape through the lens of innovative construction technologies.The research methodology employed is mixed-methods (quantitative-qualitative), utilizing theoretical analysis to extract key components and concepts related to urban form and innovative construction technologies. Subsequently, these components were refined and finalized through the Delphi method and expert consultation. The theories of Giddens, Bourdieu, Castells, and Heidegger were adopted as the foundation for analysis. To analyze the relationships between components and determine a hierarchical structure, the Structural-Interpretive Modeling (ISM) approach was utilized, resulting in a model presented across six levels.The findings indicate that innovative construction technologies play a driving role in shaping the urban landscape, exerting the greatest influence among other components. The resulting model demonstrates a multi-layered structure, with innovative technology positioned as a fundamental variable and a driving component at the foundational layers.Consequently, technology serves as a pivotal component in redefining spatial identity, cultural representations, and collective memory within the urban landscape. Furthermore, understanding architectural history, analyzing the current situation, and assessing the impact of modernity, supported by architectural theories, alongside the proposed theoretical framework, can be effective in improving urban environments. The presented theoretical framework can serve as an analytical basis for understanding the relationships between construction technology and urban form components, as well as for improving the current state of cities. Rapid technological advancements have instigated fundamental transformations in urban landscapes, posing challenges to the alignment with indigenous and cultural concepts. This paper aims to re-evaluate theoretical frameworks of urban form by modeling the structural-interpretive components of the urban landscape through the lens of innovative construction technologies.The research methodology employed is mixed-methods (quantitative-qualitative), utilizing theoretical analysis to extract key components and concepts related to urban form and innovative construction technologies. Subsequently, these components were refined and finalized through the Delphi method and expert consultation. The theories of Giddens, Bourdieu, Castells, and Heidegger were adopted as the foundation for analysis. To analyze the relationships between components and determine a hierarchical structure, the Structural-Interpretive Modeling (ISM) approach was utilized, resulting in a model presented across six levels.The findings indicate that innovative construction technologies play a driving role in shaping the urban landscape, exerting the greatest influence among other components. The resulting model demonstrates a multi-layered structure, with innovative technology positioned as a fundamental variable and a driving component at the foundational layers.Consequently, technology serves as a pivotal component in redefining spatial identity, cultural representations, and collective memory within the urban landscape. Furthermore, understanding architectural history, analyzing the current situation, and assessing the impact of modernity, supported by architectural theories, alongside the proposed theoretical framework, can be effective in improving urban environments. The presented theoretical framework can serve as an analytical basis for understanding the relationships between construction technology and urban form components, as well as for improving the current state of cities.

https://bsnt.modares.ac.ir/article_28619_81e2631c91b78268005021e704312097.pdf

Tarbiat Modares University Naqshejahan- Basic studies and New Technologies of Architecture and Planning 2322-4991 16 1 2026 04 21 Evaluating the impact of temporary accommodation quality on reducing psychological trauma after an earthquake (Case study: Khoy County Earthquake) Evaluating the impact of temporary accommodation quality on reducing psychological trauma after an earthquake (Case study: Khoy County Earthquake) 105 118 28704 10.48311/bsnt.2026.119246.82920 FA Behrouz Salehi Architecture Department, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran 0000-0002-3731-7429 Reza Mansouri Architecture Department. Ilam University. Ilam. Iran Masoumeh Shafiie Baghbadrani Architecture Department. Ilam University. Ilam. Iran Journal Article 2026 02 09 Aims: The main objective of this study is to extract factors affecting the quality of temporary accommodation and to examine their impact on reducing psychological trauma after the earthquake. Methods: A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used in this study. In the qualitative part, a library method was used to examine studies in the field of temporary accommodation, environmental and physical conditions affecting temporary accommodation spaces, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with several earthquake victims living in temporary accommodation in East Azerbaijan Province and experts, and the extracted factors were used in the quantitative part. In the quantitative part, standard questionnaires were used to assess the level of post-traumatic stress disorder, and a researcher-made questionnaire was used to assess the quality of temporary accommodation, and the data were evaluated using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. Results: The results of this study show that about 70 percent of earthquake victims living in temporary shelters experience some level of stress and anxiety, and the physical and environmental conditions of the place of residence have a significant impact on their mental state. Also, the results show that physical, social, economic and cultural, and technical and structural factors have the greatest impact on reducing post-disaster psychological trauma, respectively. Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize that in order to reduce post-disaster psychological trauma, temporary shelters need to be considered in the design and implementation stages and be constructed in accordance with the climatic, social, economic, and cultural characteristics of the users. Aims: The main objective of this study is to extract factors affecting the quality of temporary accommodation and to examine their impact on reducing psychological trauma after the earthquake. Methods: A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used in this study. In the qualitative part, a library method was used to examine studies in the field of temporary accommodation, environmental and physical conditions affecting temporary accommodation spaces, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with several earthquake victims living in temporary accommodation in East Azerbaijan Province and experts, and the extracted factors were used in the quantitative part. In the quantitative part, standard questionnaires were used to assess the level of post-traumatic stress disorder, and a researcher-made questionnaire was used to assess the quality of temporary accommodation, and the data were evaluated using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. Results: The results of this study show that about 70 percent of earthquake victims living in temporary shelters experience some level of stress and anxiety, and the physical and environmental conditions of the place of residence have a significant impact on their mental state. Also, the results show that physical, social, economic and cultural, and technical and structural factors have the greatest impact on reducing post-disaster psychological trauma, respectively. Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize that in order to reduce post-disaster psychological trauma, temporary shelters need to be considered in the design and implementation stages and be constructed in accordance with the climatic, social, economic, and cultural characteristics of the users.

https://bsnt.modares.ac.ir/article_28704_89bdedf8c38bda669ba5aba697d7703b.pdf

Tarbiat Modares University Naqshejahan- Basic studies and New Technologies of Architecture and Planning 2322-4991 16 1 2026 04 21 Morphological Analysis of Yazd Historic Fabric via Voronoi Geometry Morphological Analysis of Yazd Historic Fabric via Voronoi Geometry 119 140 28920 10.48311/bsnt.2026.119289.82922 FA Ali Khaleghi Babaei PHd student, Department of Architecture, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Shaghayegh Nasertorabi phd student department of architecture, ka.c. islamic azad university, karaj, iran Hossien Kalantari Khalilabad Professor, Academic Staff at ACECR, and Faculty Member of the Department of Architecture, ka.c. islamic azad university karaj iran Journal Article 2026 02 12 Aims: Accelerated urbanization in recent decades, particularly within Iran’s historic centers, has precipitated profound physical transformations, introducing complexities into analyzing internal urban morphologies. As a paramount exemplar of traditional Iranian urbanism, Yazd’s historic fabric possesses a sophisticated internal logic and order concealed beneath its seemingly organic appearance. Accordingly, this research conducts a morphological analysis of the spatial configuration of Yazd’s historic core, employing the Voronoi geometry model as a mathematical framework to decode these patterns. Methods: This study is categorized as applied research and adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology. The investigation integrates archival research with computational analysis of geospatial data and maps. The analysis involves generating Voronoi diagrams, where prominent architectural landmarks—specifically the Jameh Mosque, Vaqt-ol-Sa'at Square, Ab-Anbar, and12 Imam Mausoleum—were designated as primary generators for spatial partitioning and territorial modeling. Findings: Spatial simulations based on Voronoi tessellations demonstrate that the distribution and territorial influence of these landmarks form a systematic pattern of centrality and neighborhood interaction. Variations in cell geometry and scale highlight diverse spatial capacities of these elements, revealing a well-defined physical hierarchy across various scales of the urban fabric. Conclusion: Findings indicate that Voronoi cells effectively delineate distinct spatial domains and functional hierarchies, reaffirming central roles of the Jameh Mosque and Ab-Anbar. Furthermore, the correlation between Voronoi boundaries and historical street networks suggests a hidden structural order governed by proximity logic. Consequently, the Voronoi model serves as an advanced computational tool for scientific decoding of spatial structures, offering insights for strategic planning and conservation of historic environments. Aims: Accelerated urbanization in recent decades, particularly within Iran’s historic centers, has precipitated profound physical transformations, introducing complexities into analyzing internal urban morphologies. As a paramount exemplar of traditional Iranian urbanism, Yazd’s historic fabric possesses a sophisticated internal logic and order concealed beneath its seemingly organic appearance. Accordingly, this research conducts a morphological analysis of the spatial configuration of Yazd’s historic core, employing the Voronoi geometry model as a mathematical framework to decode these patterns. Methods: This study is categorized as applied research and adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology. The investigation integrates archival research with computational analysis of geospatial data and maps. The analysis involves generating Voronoi diagrams, where prominent architectural landmarks—specifically the Jameh Mosque, Vaqt-ol-Sa'at Square, Ab-Anbar, and12 Imam Mausoleum—were designated as primary generators for spatial partitioning and territorial modeling. Findings: Spatial simulations based on Voronoi tessellations demonstrate that the distribution and territorial influence of these landmarks form a systematic pattern of centrality and neighborhood interaction. Variations in cell geometry and scale highlight diverse spatial capacities of these elements, revealing a well-defined physical hierarchy across various scales of the urban fabric. Conclusion: Findings indicate that Voronoi cells effectively delineate distinct spatial domains and functional hierarchies, reaffirming central roles of the Jameh Mosque and Ab-Anbar. Furthermore, the correlation between Voronoi boundaries and historical street networks suggests a hidden structural order governed by proximity logic. Consequently, the Voronoi model serves as an advanced computational tool for scientific decoding of spatial structures, offering insights for strategic planning and conservation of historic environments.

https://bsnt.modares.ac.ir/article_28920_ed34401478b1f44e3bf7f79d4f1f5593.pdf