International Journal of Architectural Engineering & Urban Planning
Volume:33 Issue: 3, Jul 2023

In recent years, increasing attention has been given to improving the energy efficiency of buildings in order to reduce their environmental impact and operational costs. As a result, multi-objective optimization methods have become an important tool for optimizing building energy performance. This research reviews building performance analysis approaches in a comparative method and results in a systematic overview of the existing multi-objective optimization methods used in the field of building energy performance. This review covers a wide range of optimization techniques, including genetic algorithms (NSGA-II), evolutionary algorithms, particle swarm intelligence algorithms, and other metaheuristic approaches. Furthermore, the review provides a comprehensive analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of each method in different fields such as daylight, ventilation, and thermal performance analysis. In order to achieve the aims of the research alongside reviewing the Scopus scientific database, various relevant studies were investigated. Eventually, this study provides. Eventually, this review identifies gaps in the literature potential in research directions and proposes multiple ways for future research.

This research assesses the determinants influencing the efficacy of a particular locale, specifically comparing a National Park endowed with historical significance, globally recognized, with another site, an Artificial Lake serving as a contemporary and burgeoning urban space, both situated in Gonbad-e Qabus, Golestan, Iran. The methodology employed involves a comparative study to gauge their respective levels of desirability. The primary objective of this investigation is to identify the factors contributing to the success of the Artificial Lake, despite its relatively limited historical attributes, in contrast to the National Garden, acknowledged as a world heritage site. Additionally, the identified challenges within these spaces are addressed, and solutions are proposed with active citizen participation. The research introduces novelty by concurrently investigating factors influencing the success of public spaces and comparing two categories - historical and contemporary. The sample size (n=383) was determined using Cochran’s formula, comprising 184 male cases (48%) and 199 female cases (52%). Internal consistency of the questionnaire was confirmed through Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Employing a descriptive-analytic approach, data analysis utilized SPSS software (one-sample t-test) and LISREL software (second-order confirmatory factor analysis). The findings reveal a total success score of 82.63 for the Lakeside and 72.47 for the National Garden. Notably, the "safety and security" component in both spaces received the lowest satisfaction and quality scores. Conclusively, 81.2% of citizens express a preference for the Lakeside over the National Garden for their recreational activities.

The realization and sustenance of spatial justice within urban environments encounter substantial hurdles arising from the imbalanced expansion of cities and ensuing socioeconomic crises. According to available statistical data on Iranian cities, these crises and challenges have contributed to an escalation in the number of urban inhabitants perceiving a state of impoverishment. Many researchers believe that the indices measuring the development and welfare of a city serve as indicators of its overall quality of life. The objective of this investigation was to examine how the urban quality of life, as facilitated by access to urban services, influences the perception of poverty among urban residents. Considering that objective urban quality of life transforms into subjective urban quality of life through individual perception, and recognizing that the sense of poverty is also a subjective phenomenon, it becomes imperative to explore the interconnection between these two aspects. Initially, the study formulated its conceptual model. Subsequently, the historical district of Shiraz City was chosen as the sample for examination. A structured questionnaire was devised and disseminated among the residents of this specific district. The collected data were subjected to analysis utilizing SPSS 23. The findings revealed that within the residents of the historical district of Shiraz City, the perception of poverty is influenced by three key factors: "employment and economy," "housing," and "recreation and entertainment." Furthermore, the results indicated that proficient urban management, particularly in the provision of urban services, holds substantial potential for alleviating the sensation of urban poverty.

Urban squares are pivotal in 21st-century cities, serving as communal hubs where individuals experience a genuine sense of belonging and community. However, recent redesigns of several squares in Iran have fallen short of expected quality standards. This inadequacy may stem from the prevalent reliance on design ideas shaped by casual observations and designers' personal experiences. While these observations and experiences hold significance, they lack the depth required to comprehend the intricacies of a successful urban square. A profound understanding of the relationship between a space's social and physical aspects and the activities therein necessitates tapping into the community's attitudes toward these spaces. Hence, the central aim of this study is an in-depth exploration of the multi-dimensionality inherent in people/space interaction, considering it as an attitude concept. To accomplish this, a meticulously chosen sample of five urban squares in Tehran serves as the focal point. Employing a 12-item scale, the study seeks to elucidate individuals' interactions with these urban squares and discern the features that resonate most strongly with them. Rigorous testing on a sample of 411 citizens who regularly utilize these Tehran urban squares ensures the scale's reliability and validity. The analysis of the data unveiled three discernible constructs governing individuals' interaction with urban squares, constituting their attitude concept: affective, cognitive, and conative. However, a nuanced hierarchy emerged, with the affective and cognitive constructs assuming higher importance compared to the moderately significant behavioral construct. Additionally, there were moderate correlations observed among these constructs. In the exploration of established psychological models on place, structural equation modeling (SEM) was instrumental. The Higher-Order model emerged as fitting, effectively capturing the intricate interplay between individuals and urban spaces. These findings bear significant implications for the design and management of urban squares. The key takeaway is the necessity of formulating tailored outreach policies and plans that prioritize elements resonating with users on an affective and cognitive level, shifting away from a sole reliance on instrumental responses tied to practical needs

As one of the pivotal qualitative attributes inherent in urban neighborhoods, the sense of place functions as a crucial link between individuals and spatial settings, endowing locales with distinctive personality and identity. The incorporation of this concept into the framework of new urban developments, devoid of historical precedents, necessitates careful consideration of multifaceted factors, including but not limited to identity, vitality, memorability, sense of belonging, and place attachment. Regrettably, contemporary oversight in the conscientious establishment and cultivation of urban spaces, founded upon the principles of "sense of place" and "place attachment," coupled with a disregard for historical continuities, has given rise to adverse consequences. These consequences encompass the erosion of identity, diminishing residents' sense of connection to their surroundings, diminished social interactions, and a proliferation of various social detriments. This present study endeavors to delve into the nuanced concept of the sense of place within newly developed urban environments. Specifically, it seeks to discern the factors influencing the genesis and enhancement of this phenomenon within such contexts through an exhaustive examination of three site and services areas situated in the city of Yazd, Iran. Employing a correlational research design, the study leverages statistical tools such as the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Pearson Correlation tests, and stepwise regression analyses to elucidate the intensity and directionality of relationships between dependent and independent variables. The findings of this investigation reveal that temporal considerations, the sense of belonging, the personal dependence of residents, and identity emerge as paramount variables exhibiting the highest correlation with the advancement of the sense of place in novel urban developments.

The significance of urban streets lies in their role as the fundamental structure and framework of a city. Streets acquire extraordinary power as they endure the passage of time, accumulating special meanings and memories. This inherent strength is so influential that proper organization and utilization of existing streets can render the construction of new ones unnecessary. Valiasr, spanning 18 kilometers, stands as the longest street in Tehran and the Middle East. Beginning at the railway square in the south of Tehran at an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level, it extends to Tajrish square in the north, reaching an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level. The street boasts wide sidewalks, a sizable pond, and a line of ancient plane trees, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Originating during the Qajar era (1785-1925), various segments of Valiasr were constructed to link the capital with city gates. In the early Pahlavi period (1925-1979), it was further developed to connect summer palaces to the city. The street's design, implemented without strict adherence to existing buildings, aimed to establish a direct connection between the north and south of Tehran. During this era, significant government and public structures, royal residences, and palaces were constructed along both sides of Valiasr in adherence to established construction regulations from 1928. This period also witnessed the construction of cultural buildings, public parks, gardens, universities, and medical centers. Following the Islamic Revolution of Iran (1979), Valiasr Street evolved into one of Tehran's traditional shopping centers and promenades, reflecting the city's dynamic cultural shifts. Each historical period of Iran has profoundly impacted Valiasr Street, shaping it into a symbol of Tehran's historical and cultural evolution. To delve into the changing trends and meanings associated with Valiasr Street from 1925 to the present, a comprehensive approach was adopted. A total of 100 street users, encompassing residents, pedestrians, traders, and various stakeholders, were interviewed on-site within the study area. Subsequent to these interviews, a meticulous analysis of the gathered data was conducted, facilitating the synthesis and preparation of a comprehensive diagram. The findings reveal that a multitude of factors, including functional, economic, social, political, and cultural elements, have contributed to the evolving mental imagery associated with Valiasr Street across distinct epochs. In its early existence until 1925, the perceptual influence of the observer led to Valiasr Street being conceived as a narrow garden alley nestled among the Qajar city gardens. Transitioning into the period between 1925 and 1979, the passage of time transformed its role into a communication route connecting newly constructed palaces. Moreover, the increasing influence of temporal dynamics, coupled with cultural and social components, elevated Valiasr Street into the consciousness of the populace, turning it into a cherished urban space among the residents of Tehran. The period from 1979 until the present marks a notable phase in the urban life of Valiasr Street. Following a period of stagnation, the street has undergone a revitalization, and the impact of all four meaning-forming components, with a particular emphasis on the temporal aspect, has led to its designation as a cultural heritage site of the city of Tehran in 2011. This recognition culminated in its inclusion in the list of national heritage sites.

In the current study, an endeavor is undertaken to formulate specific recommendations for the design of facades pertaining to infill buildings situated in the proximity of valuable urban Qajar residences within the Mazandaran province. The conspicuous lack of such directives within the regulatory framework of this region is noteworthy. The imposition of guidelines pertaining to façade design is imperative to establish visual congruence between contemporary structures and historical Qajar edifices in the urban landscapes of Mazandaran province. The present investigation employs a comprehensive approach, integrating both the interpretive-historical strategy and the logical argumentation strategy. A scrutiny of 30 valuable urban Qajar residences in Mazandaran province is conducted, wherein their distinctive features are systematically classified under eight discernible categories. Subsequently, a conceptual framework is developed by leveraging Semes' design strategies model and drawing inspiration from Groat's theoretical framework. Concurrently, the practicalities inherent in Mazandaran's urban conservation system are taken into consideration. This conceptual framework serves as the foundation for the articulation of facade design recommendations, delineating acceptable design methodologies for its constituent elements. Within this framework, a concerted effort is exerted to advocate conservative strategies for the macro elements of facade design, juxtaposed with latitude for more abstract approaches when addressing the micro elements. It is noteworthy that the intentional opposition approach is deemed unsuitable. Ultimately, drawing upon typological analyses of the compiled samples and adhering to the established framework, a series of recommendations for facade design is proffered. This study serves as a foundational step toward the formulation of design guidelines tailored to the historic districts of Mazandaran.

This paper delves into the reciprocal relationship between Geographic Information System (GIS) and landscape architecture, with a specific focus on the utilization of digital landscape models and visualization for the acquisition of planning knowledge. Rooted in the seminal contributions of Ian McHarg and Jack Dangermond, who were instrumental in pioneering GIS and layer planning in architecture, the study aspires to formulate a novel procedural theory for knowledge acquisition in landscape architecture. The research methodology adopts a theoretical and developmental approach, employing a qualitative systematic review analysis method. The study proposes an innovative approach to planning knowledge acquisition for landscape architects through the utilization of GIS, placing particular emphasis on visual presentations facilitated by digital landscape models and visualization models. The establishment of theoretical foundations is achieved by introducing the hierarchy of data, information, and knowledge, with a specific emphasis on the crucial role of knowledge management systems and decision support systems in the context of landscape architecture. The paper introduces a conceptual model that delineates the subsystems of knowledge management and decision support within the architectural information system. The findings and subsequent discussions underscore the significance of GIS in the acquisition of planning knowledge, emphasizing the cyclic nature of the process involving the creation, development, and experimentation with diverse options to achieve novel landscape architecture compositions. The paper introduces the Digital Visualization Model (DVM) and Digital Landscape Model (DLM) within the GIS framework, elucidating their respective roles in the landscape architecture composition cycle. In conclusion, the paper highlights the potency of GIS in environmental recognition and knowledge acquisition for landscape architects. It identifies three distinct approaches – GIS modeling, GIS analysis, and GIS visual presentation – and elucidates their seamless integration into the landscape planning process. GIS is acknowledged as a transformative force, enriching the formal interpretation of landscape architecture and paving the way for interdisciplinary exploration.