Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC)The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar1735-96352214720250823Artificial Intelligence and Architecture
A Comparative Study of Human-Centered and Machine-Centered DesignArtificial Intelligence and Architecture
A Comparative Study of Human-Centered and Machine-Centered Design51822278310.22034/bagh.2025.501863.5749FAAbbasSedaghatiDepartment of Architecture, Ur.c., Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran.0000-0003-0082-0490Journal Article20250124Problem statement: Although artificial intelligence (AI) offers unprecedented speed and precision in architectural workflows, fundamental questions remain regarding the role of human creativity and the capacity of AI-generated designs to preserve authenticity and cultural identity.<br />Research objective: This study conducts a comparative investigation of the aesthetic qualities inherent in human‐centered versus machine‐centered architectural design.<br />Research method: Framed as an applied, descriptive-analytical inquiry, the research selected four winning proposals from an Iranian school architecture competition and generated analogous schemes using AI platforms. These eight designs were evaluated by a panel of university faculty, consulting engineers, and both architecture and non-architecture students. Each participant assessed all proposals across five criteria: creativity, harmony, authenticity, attractiveness, and general Concept.<br />Conclusion: Results reveal that human‐generated designs significantly outperform AI‐produced schemes on authenticity, while AI designs exhibit a slight advantage in harmony. In terms of visual attractiveness, faculty and consulting engineers favored human designs, whereas non-architecture students showed a marked preference for AI proposals. Overall, the architectural community predominantly judged human‐crafted works superior, though the high standard deviations in ratings underscore the subjective nature of aesthetic judgments and the diversity of individual preferences.<br />The study underscores the indispensable value of human creativity in architecture and positions AI as a complementary tool for enhancing the design process, rather than as a wholesale substitute for human designers.Problem statement: Although artificial intelligence (AI) offers unprecedented speed and precision in architectural workflows, fundamental questions remain regarding the role of human creativity and the capacity of AI-generated designs to preserve authenticity and cultural identity.<br />Research objective: This study conducts a comparative investigation of the aesthetic qualities inherent in human‐centered versus machine‐centered architectural design.<br />Research method: Framed as an applied, descriptive-analytical inquiry, the research selected four winning proposals from an Iranian school architecture competition and generated analogous schemes using AI platforms. These eight designs were evaluated by a panel of university faculty, consulting engineers, and both architecture and non-architecture students. Each participant assessed all proposals across five criteria: creativity, harmony, authenticity, attractiveness, and general Concept.<br />Conclusion: Results reveal that human‐generated designs significantly outperform AI‐produced schemes on authenticity, while AI designs exhibit a slight advantage in harmony. In terms of visual attractiveness, faculty and consulting engineers favored human designs, whereas non-architecture students showed a marked preference for AI proposals. Overall, the architectural community predominantly judged human‐crafted works superior, though the high standard deviations in ratings underscore the subjective nature of aesthetic judgments and the diversity of individual preferences.<br />The study underscores the indispensable value of human creativity in architecture and positions AI as a complementary tool for enhancing the design process, rather than as a wholesale substitute for human designers.https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_222783_612ccac2724bb64ddcdd0442309650c9.pdfNazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC)The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar1735-96352214720250823Identifying Tectonic Components in the Architecture of Rural Houses in the Eastern Region of GīlānIdentifying Tectonic Components in the Architecture of Rural Houses in the Eastern Region of Gīlān193422451310.22034/bagh.2025.503387.5755FAJavadMortazaviDepartment of Architecture, Qa.c., Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran.0000-0003-2300-9182MaryamArmaghanDepartment of Architecture, Qa.c., Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran.0000-0002-0032-3008JamaleddinSoheiliDepartment of Architecture, Qa.c., Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran.0000-0002-2645-8912Journal Article20250202Problem statement: Tectonics in architecture contributes to maintaining a stable balance between natural capacities (e.g. topography, soil, hazards) and cultural-climatic requirements (e.g.vernacular materials, structural structures, and artistic expression). However, the accelerated development of urbanization and climate change in the eastern region of Gīlān have upset this long-term balance and caused two fundamental challenges: 1) Substitution of ecosystem-incompatible construction materials; 2) annihilation of architectural identity rooted in culture and climate. These challenges not only threaten structural sustainability but also accelerate the disconnection from traditional knowledge of human-nature symbiosis. Therefore, identifying the tectonic components that affect climatic adaptability and cultural authenticity is an essential step to reestablish this balance and protect the architectural heritage of the region.<br />Research objective: This research attempts to identify the tectonic components influencing the architecture of rural houses in eastern Gīlān and to examine how their interactions preserve the identity of local architecture. This study seeks to answer these questions: What are the tectonic components affecting the rural architecture of the eastern Gīlān region? What are the spatial relationships of the buildings to each other? And what materials are used in the rural space of this region?<br />Research method: The research is descriptive-analytical employing field data and literature review to analyze the buildings.<br />Conclusion: The research results show that physical and semantic components play a synergistic role in the architectural tectonics of houses in the eastern region of Gīlān. In terms of physical components, the extensive use of local materials such as wood, kahgel (a mixture of mud and straw), and stone has created structures that withstand moisture and climate change, which ensures both environmental sustainability and economic benefits. Architectural forms, including sloping roofs, insulated walls, and open spaces of verandas, have been designed to optimize environmental conditions facilitating natural ventilation, creating spatial harmony, and maintaining continuity with nature. Increasing efficiency in terms of semantic components, architectural forms, and details act as cultural and social symbols and strengthen local identity. Problem statement: Tectonics in architecture contributes to maintaining a stable balance between natural capacities (e.g. topography, soil, hazards) and cultural-climatic requirements (e.g.vernacular materials, structural structures, and artistic expression). However, the accelerated development of urbanization and climate change in the eastern region of Gīlān have upset this long-term balance and caused two fundamental challenges: 1) Substitution of ecosystem-incompatible construction materials; 2) annihilation of architectural identity rooted in culture and climate. These challenges not only threaten structural sustainability but also accelerate the disconnection from traditional knowledge of human-nature symbiosis. Therefore, identifying the tectonic components that affect climatic adaptability and cultural authenticity is an essential step to reestablish this balance and protect the architectural heritage of the region.<br />Research objective: This research attempts to identify the tectonic components influencing the architecture of rural houses in eastern Gīlān and to examine how their interactions preserve the identity of local architecture. This study seeks to answer these questions: What are the tectonic components affecting the rural architecture of the eastern Gīlān region? What are the spatial relationships of the buildings to each other? And what materials are used in the rural space of this region?<br />Research method: The research is descriptive-analytical employing field data and literature review to analyze the buildings.<br />Conclusion: The research results show that physical and semantic components play a synergistic role in the architectural tectonics of houses in the eastern region of Gīlān. In terms of physical components, the extensive use of local materials such as wood, kahgel (a mixture of mud and straw), and stone has created structures that withstand moisture and climate change, which ensures both environmental sustainability and economic benefits. Architectural forms, including sloping roofs, insulated walls, and open spaces of verandas, have been designed to optimize environmental conditions facilitating natural ventilation, creating spatial harmony, and maintaining continuity with nature. Increasing efficiency in terms of semantic components, architectural forms, and details act as cultural and social symbols and strengthen local identity. https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_224513_5a251c63e3d0c8a08eea2497b932b14d.pdfNazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC)The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar1735-96352214720250823A Systematic Review of Shading Systems Across Diverse Climates
A Multi-Criteria Framework for Optimizing Energy Performance and User ComfortA Systematic Review of Shading Systems Across Diverse Climates
A Multi-Criteria Framework for Optimizing Energy Performance and User Comfort355022515310.22034/bagh.2025.516023.5793FAParastooTorkzadeh MahaniDepartment of Architecture, Bam Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bam, Iran.MansourNikpourDepartment of Architecture, Bam Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bam, Iran.0000-0001-7305-1704MohsenGhasemiDepartment of Architecture, Bam Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bam, Iran.Journal Article20250414Problem statement: In many warm, humid, and even temperate climates, managing solar radiation has become an increasingly complex challenge. This is largely due to the fact that most existing shading systems are predominantly designed with a singular focus on reducing energy consumption, often overlooking critical dimensions such as visual comfort, architectural integration, and occupant behavior. Consequently, shading strategies that fail to adopt a multi-dimensional approach frequently yield suboptimal performance and encounter limited acceptance in real-world applications.<br />Research objective: This study addresses the aforementioned gap by conducting a systematic review of 70 selected scholarly works. The aim is twofold: to establish a comprehensive classification of shading systems based on climatic context, technological characteristics, building typology, and user-centric considerations; and to propose an integrated decision-making framework for the optimal selection and design of shading strategies tailored to varied climatic scenarios.<br />Research method: The research adopts a systematic review methodology, underpinned by qualitative content analysis. High-impact publications from 2004 to 2024 were curated from authoritative academic databases. These studies were critically assessed based on shading typologies, methodological approaches, performance metrics, and climate contexts. A comparative analysis was then employed to synthesize a multi-criteria framework that integrates energy simulations, parametric optimization, user-centered evaluation, and field calibration techniques.<br />Conclusion: and Conclusion: The findings reveal that successful shading interventions are those that balance thermal load reduction, adequate daylight provision, user satisfaction, and environmental considerations. The proposed framework emphasizes iterative feedback loops across design, implementation, and post-occupancy evaluation phases. This dynamic, climate-responsive model offers a robust tool for advancing sustainable, human-centered architectural practices.Problem statement: In many warm, humid, and even temperate climates, managing solar radiation has become an increasingly complex challenge. This is largely due to the fact that most existing shading systems are predominantly designed with a singular focus on reducing energy consumption, often overlooking critical dimensions such as visual comfort, architectural integration, and occupant behavior. Consequently, shading strategies that fail to adopt a multi-dimensional approach frequently yield suboptimal performance and encounter limited acceptance in real-world applications.<br />Research objective: This study addresses the aforementioned gap by conducting a systematic review of 70 selected scholarly works. The aim is twofold: to establish a comprehensive classification of shading systems based on climatic context, technological characteristics, building typology, and user-centric considerations; and to propose an integrated decision-making framework for the optimal selection and design of shading strategies tailored to varied climatic scenarios.<br />Research method: The research adopts a systematic review methodology, underpinned by qualitative content analysis. High-impact publications from 2004 to 2024 were curated from authoritative academic databases. These studies were critically assessed based on shading typologies, methodological approaches, performance metrics, and climate contexts. A comparative analysis was then employed to synthesize a multi-criteria framework that integrates energy simulations, parametric optimization, user-centered evaluation, and field calibration techniques.<br />Conclusion: and Conclusion: The findings reveal that successful shading interventions are those that balance thermal load reduction, adequate daylight provision, user satisfaction, and environmental considerations. The proposed framework emphasizes iterative feedback loops across design, implementation, and post-occupancy evaluation phases. This dynamic, climate-responsive model offers a robust tool for advancing sustainable, human-centered architectural practices.https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_225153_a9f931f3f6a59b72151e763674bf63cc.pdfNazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC)The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar1735-96352214720250823Architectural Proving Ground: A Novel Approach to the Visual Re-Creation of Hidden Spaces in Historic Cities
(Case Study: Religious Buildings in Rasht, Iran)Architectural Proving Ground: A Novel Approach to the Visual Re-Creation of Hidden Spaces in Historic Cities
(Case Study: Religious Buildings in Rasht, Iran)516622451010.22034/bagh.2025.486484.5697FAMostafaBolourchiDepartment of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad0000-0003-1152-8313Journal Article20241101Problem statement: Contemporary cities require a stronger sense of identity and place, particularly concerning their historic sites. In this context, the recovery of hidden spaces is of paramount importance. This study defines “hidden spaces” as historically significant buildings that no longer have a physical presence or visible trace.<br />Research objective: This study aims to introduce a new type of oral history through field studies one that is not only auditory but also visual. It presents an innovative approach that relies heavily on the interaction between the witness (interviewee) and the field researcher (interviewer). This method involves physical and mental movement through space and time, recognizing building plans, the development of forms, and architectural details of historical structures. This process is referred to in this study as the “Architectural Proving Ground.”<br />Research method: The research is applied in purpose and descriptive-analytical, conducted through qualitative methods. Sampling was conducted in stages, combining convenience, snowball, and purposive sampling techniques. The study’s statistical population, in its physical-spatial aspect, includes religious buildings in Rasht from the Safavid era to the end of the Pahlavi II period. In terms of human resources, the study draws upon local witnesses and elders who were involved in or have observed events related to these buildings.<br />Conclusion: The analysis reveals that within the conditions of the Architectural Proving Ground, the lived experiences of the witnesses—guided by the researcher—through methodical steps involving hypothesis presentation and testing, lead to the spatial anchoring of the witnesses’ memories. This, in turn, brings meaning to these places and uncovers patterns of architectural transformation and development across historical periods. The study thus offers a scientific framework that demonstrates how the Architectural Proving Ground can facilitate the visual re-creation of hidden spaces and help identify the lost spatial structures associated with them (such as memories and related events) in historic cities.Problem statement: Contemporary cities require a stronger sense of identity and place, particularly concerning their historic sites. In this context, the recovery of hidden spaces is of paramount importance. This study defines “hidden spaces” as historically significant buildings that no longer have a physical presence or visible trace.<br />Research objective: This study aims to introduce a new type of oral history through field studies one that is not only auditory but also visual. It presents an innovative approach that relies heavily on the interaction between the witness (interviewee) and the field researcher (interviewer). This method involves physical and mental movement through space and time, recognizing building plans, the development of forms, and architectural details of historical structures. This process is referred to in this study as the “Architectural Proving Ground.”<br />Research method: The research is applied in purpose and descriptive-analytical, conducted through qualitative methods. Sampling was conducted in stages, combining convenience, snowball, and purposive sampling techniques. The study’s statistical population, in its physical-spatial aspect, includes religious buildings in Rasht from the Safavid era to the end of the Pahlavi II period. In terms of human resources, the study draws upon local witnesses and elders who were involved in or have observed events related to these buildings.<br />Conclusion: The analysis reveals that within the conditions of the Architectural Proving Ground, the lived experiences of the witnesses—guided by the researcher—through methodical steps involving hypothesis presentation and testing, lead to the spatial anchoring of the witnesses’ memories. This, in turn, brings meaning to these places and uncovers patterns of architectural transformation and development across historical periods. The study thus offers a scientific framework that demonstrates how the Architectural Proving Ground can facilitate the visual re-creation of hidden spaces and help identify the lost spatial structures associated with them (such as memories and related events) in historic cities.https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_224510_716c453d5e5ee94ed52d75e524794229.pdfNazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC)The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar1735-96352214720250823The Role of Bio-Aesthetic Components in Predicting the Perceptions of Residential Environment Quality
(Case Study: Selected Neighborhoods in Sanandaj City)The Role of Bio-Aesthetic Components in Predicting the Perceptions of Residential Environment Quality
(Case Study: Selected Neighborhoods in Sanandaj City)678022451110.22034/bagh.2025.518868.5799FAParvizAslaniDepartment of Architecture, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.0009-0008-8720-866XFarahHabibDepartment of Architecture, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.0000-0001-8052-6229AzadehShahcheraghiDepartment of Architecture, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.0000-0003-1947-2772Journal Article20250427Problem statement: With growing concerns over the quality of residential environments, scholarly efforts have increasingly focused on identifying the factors that shape residents’ perceptions of their surroundings. Within this context, the concept of bioaesthetics has gained prominence as a critical dimension influencing environmental perception.<br />Research objective: This study aims to investigate the extent to which bio-aesthetic components can predict residents’ perceptions of residential environment quality.<br />Research method: Employing an applied purpose, this cross-sectional study utilized a descriptive-correlational approach. The target population consisted of adult residents in the Khosrowabad, Agheh Zaman, Qatarchian, and Sartapuleh neighborhoods of Sanandaj. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed using convenience sampling, from which 214 valid responses were collected. Data were gathered through two researcher-developed instruments: a 49-item scale measuring four dimensions of bioaesthetics perceptual, cognitive, social, and biological and a four-item scale assessing perceived residential environment quality. Content validity was established through expert evaluation, and internal consistency was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha. Data analysis included Pearson correlation coefficients and simultaneous multiple regression.<br />Conclusion: All four bio-aesthetic components showed significant positive correlations with perceived residential environment quality. The combined model of bio-aesthetic factors significantly predicted 33% of the variance in residential environment quality (R² = 0.33, p < 0.001). Among the components, perceptual, biological, and social aesthetics emerged as significant individual predictors, whereas the cognitive component did not independently predict environmental perception These findings highlight the pivotal role of bio-aesthetic design especially perceptual and biological dimensions in fostering higher-quality residential environments. Integrating bio-aesthetic principles into environmental design can enhance both resident satisfaction and overall quality of life.Problem statement: With growing concerns over the quality of residential environments, scholarly efforts have increasingly focused on identifying the factors that shape residents’ perceptions of their surroundings. Within this context, the concept of bioaesthetics has gained prominence as a critical dimension influencing environmental perception.<br />Research objective: This study aims to investigate the extent to which bio-aesthetic components can predict residents’ perceptions of residential environment quality.<br />Research method: Employing an applied purpose, this cross-sectional study utilized a descriptive-correlational approach. The target population consisted of adult residents in the Khosrowabad, Agheh Zaman, Qatarchian, and Sartapuleh neighborhoods of Sanandaj. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed using convenience sampling, from which 214 valid responses were collected. Data were gathered through two researcher-developed instruments: a 49-item scale measuring four dimensions of bioaesthetics perceptual, cognitive, social, and biological and a four-item scale assessing perceived residential environment quality. Content validity was established through expert evaluation, and internal consistency was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha. Data analysis included Pearson correlation coefficients and simultaneous multiple regression.<br />Conclusion: All four bio-aesthetic components showed significant positive correlations with perceived residential environment quality. The combined model of bio-aesthetic factors significantly predicted 33% of the variance in residential environment quality (R² = 0.33, p < 0.001). Among the components, perceptual, biological, and social aesthetics emerged as significant individual predictors, whereas the cognitive component did not independently predict environmental perception These findings highlight the pivotal role of bio-aesthetic design especially perceptual and biological dimensions in fostering higher-quality residential environments. Integrating bio-aesthetic principles into environmental design can enhance both resident satisfaction and overall quality of life.https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_224511_3f0cc15ece40300f949f9d21230f58b2.pdfNazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC)The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar1735-96352214720250823Thematic Analysis of Mehdi Ghadyanloo’s Murals from a Sociological Approach (Reflective and Shaping);
A case study of murals at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Dewey Square in Boston, and the Shoreditch area in LondonThematic Analysis of Mehdi Ghadyanloo’s Murals from a Sociological Approach (Reflective and Shaping);
A case study of murals at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Dewey Square in Boston, and the Shoreditch area in London819022589210.22034/bagh.2025.520584.5810FAAliakbarEmamisahebiDepartment of Painting, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.0009-0005-1622-8530MohamdrezaHassaniDepartment of Painting, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.0000-0002-4319-1412Journal Article20250502Problem statement: The present study was an attempt to investigate Mehdi Ghadyanloo’s murals in public spaces such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, Dewey Square in Boston, and the Shoreditch area in London. Ghadyanlo’s works deal with contemporary social issues and global concerns, utilizing symbolic elements including children, balloons, and apertures of light. Through a surrealistic mode of expression, these elements prompt the viewer to engage in contemplative reflection. The primary research questions are: Which social issues influence the thematic content of Ghadyanlo’s murals? What motivates the artist’s use of symbolic elements and a surrealistic style? <br />Research objective: This study aims to investigate the significance of the artist’s connection to society, his responsiveness to social life, and his efforts to effect change with the goal of improving urban life reflected in his works.<br />Research method: The research employs a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing library, survey, and fieldwork resources. Data collection instruments include note-taking and interviews.<br />Conclusion: Mehdi Ghadyanloo’s artworks, viewed through the dual lenses of “Reflective” and “Shaping” approaches, simultaneously mirror social crises and vulnerabilities while inspiring hope and transformation. By employing visual symbols such as children, crows, balloons, and the sky, he constructs a multilayered representation of both the real and Idealized world. As a conscious artist, Ghadyanloo leverages mural painting as an artistic medium to foster new perspectives regarding the contemporary condition and future trajectory of society.Problem statement: The present study was an attempt to investigate Mehdi Ghadyanloo’s murals in public spaces such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, Dewey Square in Boston, and the Shoreditch area in London. Ghadyanlo’s works deal with contemporary social issues and global concerns, utilizing symbolic elements including children, balloons, and apertures of light. Through a surrealistic mode of expression, these elements prompt the viewer to engage in contemplative reflection. The primary research questions are: Which social issues influence the thematic content of Ghadyanlo’s murals? What motivates the artist’s use of symbolic elements and a surrealistic style? <br />Research objective: This study aims to investigate the significance of the artist’s connection to society, his responsiveness to social life, and his efforts to effect change with the goal of improving urban life reflected in his works.<br />Research method: The research employs a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing library, survey, and fieldwork resources. Data collection instruments include note-taking and interviews.<br />Conclusion: Mehdi Ghadyanloo’s artworks, viewed through the dual lenses of “Reflective” and “Shaping” approaches, simultaneously mirror social crises and vulnerabilities while inspiring hope and transformation. By employing visual symbols such as children, crows, balloons, and the sky, he constructs a multilayered representation of both the real and Idealized world. As a conscious artist, Ghadyanloo leverages mural painting as an artistic medium to foster new perspectives regarding the contemporary condition and future trajectory of society.https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_225892_abeb45283a4cf0ec8329224861088594.pdf