Explaining the Conceptual Model of the Aesthetic Relationship Between Structure and Architecture Based on the Grounded Theory Method with Emphasis on Contemporary Iranian Architecture

Volume 23, Issue 160
October 2026
Pages 29-48

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Architecture, Ahv.C., Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran

2 Department of Architectural Technology, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Faculty of civil Engineering and Architecture, Technical and Vocational University (TVU), Tehran, Iran

Abstract
Problem statement: The role of structure in the design and shaping of beautiful architecture is a critical issue. However, the role of structure in the beauty of the building has been less considered as an aesthetic issue in contemporary Iranian architecture, making it an important category to address.
Research objective: This research aims to develop a conceptual model grounded in the study of contemporary Iranian architecture to advance a theory of how structure shapes the creation of aesthetically quality architecture.
Research method: The present research is qualitative and based on the grounded theory method, which was used with an inductive and exploratory approach. The data collection method was based on interviews with 20 experts in architecture and structural engineering. The data analysis method is also based on three-stage coding in Atlas.ti software.
Conclusion: The findings of this research showed that integrating structure and architecture has led to the creation of beautiful, distinctive buildings due to functional diversity in the contemporary era. This research introduced purity and simplicity, integrity and independence of structure and architecture, geometry, rhythm and symmetry, and order and proportion as aesthetic characteristics resulting from the structure that can create qualities such as simplicity and expressiveness, flexibility, identity and narrative, transparency, extroversion and interaction between the inside and outside of the building. Also, background factors related to executive issues, interference resulting from interests and professional conflict, and the lack of mutual and interactive communication among professionals affect the formation of architecture based on the beauty of the structure.

Keywords

Subjects
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