Typology Study of The Physical-Functional Structure of Residential Architecture in Golestan Province

Environmental factors have been the most important phenomenon in formation of vernacular architecture. Limited technology of past caused a high adaptability of architectural designs to environmental factors. The vernacular architecture of Golestan province, due to environmental conditions has got different types which are the subject of this study. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the types of vernacular architecture in Golestan province. The main question of this research is: how many different types of residential architecture can we classify according to the environmental condition of the region? Theoretical framework of this research is based on the role of local environmental factors on the shape of vernacular architecture. Research method is descriptive, analytical and comparative. Data collection of this study was based on the documental and field studies. According to the field studies many samples were collected and after the first descriptive studies, some of the cases were classified. In spite the overall harmony of traditional architecture of the region based on the analytical and comparative studies, vernacular architecture of this province can be reviewed in three types: Vernacular architecture of the plain and flatlands, Residential units of mountain foot and Units in steep mountainous slopes.