Interpreting the Relationship Between the Void Design Process and Residents' Social Interactions in Residential Spaces in Tehran

Void, as an empty spatial entity, holds a wide range of influences across various fields, including architecture and urban planning. Consequently, the void, in addition to its distinct physical and morphological characteristics, possesses conceptual and socio-functional dimensions. It not only acquires meaning and significance in spatial terms but also serves as a focal point for meanings and concepts and a site for interactions among individuals. In residential spaces, the void functions as a behavioral setting, enclosed by physical elements that define boundaries and limits. In this study, the spatial structure of the void is examined from formal, physical, and social perspectives. The research includes two sections: analyzing documentation related to the void design process in residential case studies and conducting interviews and behavioral observations of residents. The study, with an applied focus, investigates the spatial components influencing the void in the design process and its impact on social interactions among residents in residential spaces in Tehran. Methodologically, the research is conducted within a qualitative paradigm using a grounded theory approach. Based on parameters derived from literature and documentary sources, interviews were conducted with residents of various residential typologies, including single-family houses, apartments, and residential complexes, categorized by the number of households. The analysis of the findings was performed using MAXQDA software to generate qualitative data. The results examine the interactions between the design process factors and the residents’ perspectives extracted from interviews.