Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC) The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar 1735-9635 23 158 2026 07 23 Exploring Architectural Experts’ Perceptual Patterns of Biophilic Factors Influencing Subjective Well-Being of Residential Complex Residents Exploring Architectural Experts’ Perceptual Patterns of Biophilic Factors Influencing Subjective Well-Being of Residential Complex Residents 5 18 242961 10.22034/bagh.2026.564744.5947 FA Mahsa Mirheydarian Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran 0009-0009-4519-7955 Esmaeil Zarghami Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran 0000-0002-2398-3041 Journal Article 2025 12 07 Problem statement: The scarcity of natural landscapes in contemporary residential settings and the disconnection between humans and nature in modern societies deprive residents of the tranquilizing benefits of natural environments. Consequently, enhancing subjective well-being and mental health has come to be known as a critical challenge in residential setting design. Research objective: The present study was an attempt to identify and classify the dominant perspectives of architectural experts familiar with biophilic design principles regarding the influence of nature-based design on the subjective well-being of residents in residential complexes. Research method: The present heuristic study is fundamental in terms of objective and falls into the category of descriptive survey studies in terms of data collection. The Delphi method was employed to identify expert perspectives, and Q factor analysis was used to classify their perceptual patterns. In the Delphi phase, 20 experts in architectural education and design were selected through purposive, non probability sampling. The sample size was justified by the inclusive recruitment of experts with distinct views and their participation in the study. A Likert scale questionnaire for Q factor analysis was then administered to the experts, and the data were analyzed with SPSS 27. Conclusion: The findings revealed four dominant subjective patterns among architectural experts: Objective pattern (visual quality of nature) 14.635%, Functional pattern (structure of nature) – 13.027%, Semantic pattern (semantic relationship with nature) – 12.879%, and Sensory pattern (non visual physics of nature) – 9.996%. These four patterns indicate that architectural experts consider nature effective in improving residents’ subjective well being from four perspectives: visual, functional, semantic, and non visual. Problem statement: The scarcity of natural landscapes in contemporary residential settings and the disconnection between humans and nature in modern societies deprive residents of the tranquilizing benefits of natural environments. Consequently, enhancing subjective well-being and mental health has come to be known as a critical challenge in residential setting design. Research objective: The present study was an attempt to identify and classify the dominant perspectives of architectural experts familiar with biophilic design principles regarding the influence of nature-based design on the subjective well-being of residents in residential complexes. Research method: The present heuristic study is fundamental in terms of objective and falls into the category of descriptive survey studies in terms of data collection. The Delphi method was employed to identify expert perspectives, and Q factor analysis was used to classify their perceptual patterns. In the Delphi phase, 20 experts in architectural education and design were selected through purposive, non probability sampling. The sample size was justified by the inclusive recruitment of experts with distinct views and their participation in the study. A Likert scale questionnaire for Q factor analysis was then administered to the experts, and the data were analyzed with SPSS 27. Conclusion: The findings revealed four dominant subjective patterns among architectural experts: Objective pattern (visual quality of nature) 14.635%, Functional pattern (structure of nature) – 13.027%, Semantic pattern (semantic relationship with nature) – 12.879%, and Sensory pattern (non visual physics of nature) – 9.996%. These four patterns indicate that architectural experts consider nature effective in improving residents’ subjective well being from four perspectives: visual, functional, semantic, and non visual.

https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_242961_11f41db09607316b9df81e05ceb56e85.pdf

Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC) The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar 1735-9635 23 158 2026 07 23 Investigating the Impact of Vegetation on Thermal Comfort in a Hot and Arid Climate (A Micro-Scale Study of Kholdebarin Residential Neighborhood, Shiraz, Iran) Investigating the Impact of Vegetation on Thermal Comfort in a Hot and Arid Climate (A Micro-Scale Study of Kholdebarin Residential Neighborhood, Shiraz, Iran) 19 26 243397 10.22034/bagh.2026.507504.5769 FA Fatemeh Minabian Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architectural Engineering and Urban Planning, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran 0009-0007-8706-1947 Nazanin Fakhfoori Department of Urban and Regional Design and Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran 0009-0007-6463-460X Mohammadreza Mehrabani Golzar Faculty of Architecture, and Urban Planning, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran 0000-0001-9706-2723 Journal Article 2025 02 24 Problem statement: Urbanization and uncontrolled physical expansion of cities, without consideration of climatic consequences, have led to rising ambient temperatures and a subsequent decline in thermal comfort and quality of life for residents in outdoor spaces within hot and arid climates. Although vegetation can enhance thermal comfort through shading and radiation mitigation, the effectiveness of this strategy at the microscale, such as in residential alleys, remains uncertain and warrants further investigation. Research objective: This study evaluates the role of vegetation in moderating thermal comfort at the microscale in urban spaces within a hot and arid climate. Research method: Two alleys with similar physical characteristics but different vegetation conditions in the Kholdebarin neighborhood of Shiraz, Iran, were selected. Field data, including air temperature and relative humidity, were collected during peak heat hours. Following the simulation of the study environment in ENVI-met, the data were analyzed using the PMV index in Bio-MET. Conclusion: Results showed that the maximum temperature difference was approximately 2°C, while the PMV index remained in the “very hot” range. Despite the relative effect of vegetation, this degree of change is insufficient to provide thermal comfort. The findings demonstrate that tree species and canopy form play a significant role in improving thermal conditions. This study emphasizes that effective green space design incorporating trees with wide canopies is more impactful than simply planting trees with limited canopy cover. Problem statement: Urbanization and uncontrolled physical expansion of cities, without consideration of climatic consequences, have led to rising ambient temperatures and a subsequent decline in thermal comfort and quality of life for residents in outdoor spaces within hot and arid climates. Although vegetation can enhance thermal comfort through shading and radiation mitigation, the effectiveness of this strategy at the microscale, such as in residential alleys, remains uncertain and warrants further investigation. Research objective: This study evaluates the role of vegetation in moderating thermal comfort at the microscale in urban spaces within a hot and arid climate. Research method: Two alleys with similar physical characteristics but different vegetation conditions in the Kholdebarin neighborhood of Shiraz, Iran, were selected. Field data, including air temperature and relative humidity, were collected during peak heat hours. Following the simulation of the study environment in ENVI-met, the data were analyzed using the PMV index in Bio-MET. Conclusion: Results showed that the maximum temperature difference was approximately 2°C, while the PMV index remained in the “very hot” range. Despite the relative effect of vegetation, this degree of change is insufficient to provide thermal comfort. The findings demonstrate that tree species and canopy form play a significant role in improving thermal conditions. This study emphasizes that effective green space design incorporating trees with wide canopies is more impactful than simply planting trees with limited canopy cover.

https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_243397_b68385e8d47943d7f1d621c0b49e3f38.pdf

Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC) The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar 1735-9635 23 158 2026 07 23 Analysis of the Correlation Between Physical-Spatial Structure and Behavioral Patterns of Residents in Informal Settlements (A Case Study of the Morteza Gerd Neighborhood, District 19, Tehran) Analysis of the Correlation Between Physical-Spatial Structure and Behavioral Patterns of Residents in Informal Settlements (A Case Study of the Morteza Gerd Neighborhood, District 19, Tehran) 27 40 243690 10.22034/bagh.2026.549875.5909 FA Reza Fattahi Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University of Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran 0009-0009-4804-9763 Mohamadreza Khatibi Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University of Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran Vahid Bigdeli Rad Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University of Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran Journal Article 2025 10 06 Problem statement: Informal settlements, as a growing phenomenon in metropolitan areas, face numerous physical, social, and behavioral challenges. One of the less studied aspects is the role of the physical structure of these settlements in shaping the behavioral patterns of residents. This study examines the role that physical-spatial characteristics play in shaping the daily behavior of residents. Research objective: The main objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between the physical-spatial structure and behavioral patterns of residents in the Morteza Gerd neighborhood as an example of an informal settlement in District 19 of Tehran. A secondary objective is to identify the types of behavioral spaces formed in response to this structure. Research method: This study was conducted using a mixed-method (quantitative and qualitative) approach with an applied focus. Data were collected and analyzed using various techniques, including library studies, field observations, the distribution of 378 questionnaires among residents, spatial analysis of the area’s physical structure (using the Space Syntax method), and prioritization of the studied zones based on research criteria (using the TOPSIS technique). Conclusion: The results show that the physical-spatial structure plays a crucial role in shaping residents’ behavior. Zones with better access, appropriate land uses, and more open space fostered richer social behaviors and a higher sense of belonging. In contrast, zones adjacent to industrial uses or with poor access were linked to decreased social interactions and a sense of insecurity. Overall, this study concludes that any planning initiative to improve the quality of life in these settlements must start with improving the physical-spatial structure and carefully considering its relationship with resident behavior. Problem statement: Informal settlements, as a growing phenomenon in metropolitan areas, face numerous physical, social, and behavioral challenges. One of the less studied aspects is the role of the physical structure of these settlements in shaping the behavioral patterns of residents. This study examines the role that physical-spatial characteristics play in shaping the daily behavior of residents. Research objective: The main objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between the physical-spatial structure and behavioral patterns of residents in the Morteza Gerd neighborhood as an example of an informal settlement in District 19 of Tehran. A secondary objective is to identify the types of behavioral spaces formed in response to this structure. Research method: This study was conducted using a mixed-method (quantitative and qualitative) approach with an applied focus. Data were collected and analyzed using various techniques, including library studies, field observations, the distribution of 378 questionnaires among residents, spatial analysis of the area’s physical structure (using the Space Syntax method), and prioritization of the studied zones based on research criteria (using the TOPSIS technique). Conclusion: The results show that the physical-spatial structure plays a crucial role in shaping residents’ behavior. Zones with better access, appropriate land uses, and more open space fostered richer social behaviors and a higher sense of belonging. In contrast, zones adjacent to industrial uses or with poor access were linked to decreased social interactions and a sense of insecurity. Overall, this study concludes that any planning initiative to improve the quality of life in these settlements must start with improving the physical-spatial structure and carefully considering its relationship with resident behavior.

https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_243690_b2801bb6e37663190674c902e6ab1d6d.pdf

Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC) The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar 1735-9635 23 158 2026 07 23 A Systematic Review of Life Cycle Assessment in 3D Printing Concrete: An Analytical Investigation of Methods, Processes, and Assessment Tools in Architecture and Construction A Systematic Review of Life Cycle Assessment in 3D Printing Concrete: An Analytical Investigation of Methods, Processes, and Assessment Tools in Architecture and Construction 41 50 244772 10.22034/bagh.2026.577258.5998 FA Amirbahador Baradaran Department of Architecture, School of Architecture, College of Fine Art , University of Tehran, Iran 0000-0002-5068-0687 Katayoun Taghizade Department of Architecture, School of Architecture, College of Fine Art , University of Tehran, Iran 0000-0003-4613-6977 Journal Article 2026 02 23 Problem statement: The environmental and economic challenges of the construction industry have made the necessity of utilizing new technologies more evident than ever. In the meantime, 3D printing concrete, as an emerging approach, has a significant capacity to reduce waste, save time, and improve productivity. Numerous pioneering studies have addressed these issues with methodologies and case studies, but there is still a lack of an analytical framework among them. Research objective: To investigate and achieve a framework that clearly defines the effective method, process, and tool in the field of life cycle assessment knowledge in the discussion of 3D printing. Research method: The present study, using the method of logical-analytical reasoning and a systematic review of research literature and library research, has examined life cycle assessment frameworks and identified key factors in this field. Conclusion: The results show that concrete materials, especially cement, have the largest share in carbon dioxide emissions and account for about 52% of the total environmental impacts. In contrast, the replacement of recycled materials, especially in the aggregates sector, depending on the consumption ratio, can reduce these impacts by 24 to 47%. From an economic perspective, this technology also has the potential to save up to about 78%. Despite these advantages, the variability in the performance unit, system limitations, and the limitations of industrial-scale data prevent direct comparison of results. Accordingly, standardization of life cycle assessment methodology and development of real-scale experimental studies are prerequisites for the sustainable use of 3D printing of concrete in future architecture and urban development. Problem statement: The environmental and economic challenges of the construction industry have made the necessity of utilizing new technologies more evident than ever. In the meantime, 3D printing concrete, as an emerging approach, has a significant capacity to reduce waste, save time, and improve productivity. Numerous pioneering studies have addressed these issues with methodologies and case studies, but there is still a lack of an analytical framework among them. Research objective: To investigate and achieve a framework that clearly defines the effective method, process, and tool in the field of life cycle assessment knowledge in the discussion of 3D printing. Research method: The present study, using the method of logical-analytical reasoning and a systematic review of research literature and library research, has examined life cycle assessment frameworks and identified key factors in this field. Conclusion: The results show that concrete materials, especially cement, have the largest share in carbon dioxide emissions and account for about 52% of the total environmental impacts. In contrast, the replacement of recycled materials, especially in the aggregates sector, depending on the consumption ratio, can reduce these impacts by 24 to 47%. From an economic perspective, this technology also has the potential to save up to about 78%. Despite these advantages, the variability in the performance unit, system limitations, and the limitations of industrial-scale data prevent direct comparison of results. Accordingly, standardization of life cycle assessment methodology and development of real-scale experimental studies are prerequisites for the sustainable use of 3D printing of concrete in future architecture and urban development.

https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_244772_207f181e5b08b5bbdcaef2f1e2640ca9.pdf

Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC) The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar 1735-9635 23 158 2026 07 23 Analysis of Factors Affecting Walkability and Sustainable Urban Mobility Using the AdaBoost Approach (Case Study: Mir Emad Neighborhood, Isfahan) Analysis of Factors Affecting Walkability and Sustainable Urban Mobility Using the AdaBoost Approach (Case Study: Mir Emad Neighborhood, Isfahan) 51 62 244771 10.22034/bagh.2026.579291.6009 FA Amirhosein Shabani Department of Urban Planning, Na.C., Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran 0000-0002-8033-1103 Mohammad Hossain Dabirzadeh Department of Architecture, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran 0000-0003-2094-1601 Journal Article 2026 04 22 Problem statement: Walkability is one of the key indicators of urban environmental quality and a prerequisite for achieving a sustainable city. In commercial and administrative fabrics, the dominance of motorized traffic over pedestrian spaces reduces the quality of the walking experience, decreases citizens’ satisfaction, and intensifies conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians, conflicts that constitute a major barrier to urban vitality and public health. Research objective: This study aims to assess citizens’ satisfaction with walkability and to determine the priority of factors affecting it in the Mir Emad neighborhood of Isfahan, to provide a framework for improving the quality of pedestrian spaces and guiding urban planning decisions. Research method: This research is descriptive in nature. Data were collected through 113 valid Likert-scale questionnaires administered to residents, shopkeepers, and pedestrians. The variables examined include safety and security, pavement quality, spatial legibility, land-use diversity, and climatic comfort. Quantitative analyses were conducted using the AdaBoost machine learning algorithm, and qualitative analyses were carried out through an interpretable examination of respondents’ comments. Conclusion: The results indicate that the AdaBoost algorithm has a satisfactory ability to explain variations in citizens’ satisfaction (coefficient of determination ≈ 0.71). Reducing motor traffic and improving walkability play the most significant role in increasing citizens’ satisfaction, followed by route safety, sidewalk quality, and nighttime lighting. Therefore, in commercial–administrative contexts, enhancing the quality of pedestrian environments cannot be achieved solely through physical improvements; it also requires sustainable transport policies, traffic management, reduced car use, and the provision of safe pedestrian routes. Problem statement: Walkability is one of the key indicators of urban environmental quality and a prerequisite for achieving a sustainable city. In commercial and administrative fabrics, the dominance of motorized traffic over pedestrian spaces reduces the quality of the walking experience, decreases citizens’ satisfaction, and intensifies conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians, conflicts that constitute a major barrier to urban vitality and public health. Research objective: This study aims to assess citizens’ satisfaction with walkability and to determine the priority of factors affecting it in the Mir Emad neighborhood of Isfahan, to provide a framework for improving the quality of pedestrian spaces and guiding urban planning decisions. Research method: This research is descriptive in nature. Data were collected through 113 valid Likert-scale questionnaires administered to residents, shopkeepers, and pedestrians. The variables examined include safety and security, pavement quality, spatial legibility, land-use diversity, and climatic comfort. Quantitative analyses were conducted using the AdaBoost machine learning algorithm, and qualitative analyses were carried out through an interpretable examination of respondents’ comments. Conclusion: The results indicate that the AdaBoost algorithm has a satisfactory ability to explain variations in citizens’ satisfaction (coefficient of determination ≈ 0.71). Reducing motor traffic and improving walkability play the most significant role in increasing citizens’ satisfaction, followed by route safety, sidewalk quality, and nighttime lighting. Therefore, in commercial–administrative contexts, enhancing the quality of pedestrian environments cannot be achieved solely through physical improvements; it also requires sustainable transport policies, traffic management, reduced car use, and the provision of safe pedestrian routes.

https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_244771_54f5263ac79e38a9bab9785d5eb3932c.pdf

Nazar Research Center for Art, Architecture and Urbanism (NRC) The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar 1735-9635 23 158 2026 07 23 A Systematic Review of Life Cycle Assessment in 3D Printing Concrete:An Analytical Investigation of Methods, Processes, and Assessment Tools in Architecture and Construction A Systematic Review of Life Cycle Assessment in 3D Printing Concrete:An Analytical Investigation of Methods, Processes, and Assessment Tools in Architecture and Construction 63 74 242962 10.22034/bagh.2026.558478.5927 FA Hamed Fallah Tafti Department of Tourism, University of Science and Arts, Yazd, Iran 0000-0003-4751-4394 Zohreh Savoj Department of Tourism, University of Science and Arts, Yazd, Iran 0009-0000-7736-7634 Journal Article 2025 11 10 Problem statement: Isfahan’s historic urban fabric, a UNESCO World Heritage site, functions as both a visual attraction and a dynamic space for pedestrian experiences. While pedestrian-oriented development gains prominence, existing research focusing on physical metrics has overlooked how tourists construct place meaning, creating mismatches between urban interventions and actual user experiences in heritage settings. Research objective: This study analyzes tourists’ lived experiences in Isfahan’s historic context to identify semantic themes shaping the sense of place and examine physical, social, and aesthetic factors’ roles in this process, aiming to bridge theoretical models and human experiences. Research questions: 1. How do tourists describe walking experiences in Isfahan’s historic fabric? 2. What factors influence place experience quality? 3. What discrepancies exist between spatial models and real pedestrian experiences? Research method: Using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), data from 16 tourists collected via semi-structured interviews were analyzed thematically, revealing six core themes. Conclusion: Four primary themes emerged: “Signs and Wayfinding,” “Visual Beauty and Legibility,” “Socio-Economic Activities,” and “Environmental Comfort.” The “Spatial vs. Experiential Discrepancy” theme showed quantitative models’ limitations in capturing meaning-making. Domestic tourists demonstrated emotional/identity-based perceptions while international tourists exhibited aesthetic/analytical perspectives. Pedestrian experience in Isfahan is multidimensional, formed through physical-sensory-social interactions. Findings advocate for place-based, human-centered policies in historic urban management to enhance tourist experiences while preserving cultural heritage, recommending integration of qualitative data with conventional approaches. Problem statement: Isfahan’s historic urban fabric, a UNESCO World Heritage site, functions as both a visual attraction and a dynamic space for pedestrian experiences. While pedestrian-oriented development gains prominence, existing research focusing on physical metrics has overlooked how tourists construct place meaning, creating mismatches between urban interventions and actual user experiences in heritage settings. Research objective: This study analyzes tourists’ lived experiences in Isfahan’s historic context to identify semantic themes shaping the sense of place and examine physical, social, and aesthetic factors’ roles in this process, aiming to bridge theoretical models and human experiences. Research questions: 1. How do tourists describe walking experiences in Isfahan’s historic fabric? 2. What factors influence place experience quality? 3. What discrepancies exist between spatial models and real pedestrian experiences? Research method: Using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), data from 16 tourists collected via semi-structured interviews were analyzed thematically, revealing six core themes. Conclusion: Four primary themes emerged: “Signs and Wayfinding,” “Visual Beauty and Legibility,” “Socio-Economic Activities,” and “Environmental Comfort.” The “Spatial vs. Experiential Discrepancy” theme showed quantitative models’ limitations in capturing meaning-making. Domestic tourists demonstrated emotional/identity-based perceptions while international tourists exhibited aesthetic/analytical perspectives. Pedestrian experience in Isfahan is multidimensional, formed through physical-sensory-social interactions. Findings advocate for place-based, human-centered policies in historic urban management to enhance tourist experiences while preserving cultural heritage, recommending integration of qualitative data with conventional approaches.

https://www.bagh-sj.com/article_242962_0a074d8430bc163e85203be7e23db531.pdf