نشریه فرهنگ و زیست فناوری معماری
پیاپی 16 (بهار 1404)

With the rapid advancement in computational design, both the design and architectural representation processes have witnessed a revolutionary shift from analog to digital media, and by utilizing nature-based concepts in design, they have opened new doors for adaptability in the architectural design process. The computational design approach starts with defining a mathematical model based on numerical relationships and equations, thus replacing the standard visual representation. Our goal is to integrate computational design technologies to create self-learning buildings that can adapt to environmental challenges and adjust accordingly by collecting data from the surrounding environment through the implementation of sensors. The research method is descriptive-analytical with a parametric approach and using algorithmic computational method with Grasshopper Scripting to produce documents. The research findings indicate the potential for developing natural forms compatible with architecture and achieving environmentally friendly design conditions; to ensure that the generated form is adaptable, we conducted several analyses such as sunlight, radiation, and shadow analysis before selecting and finalizing the form. The results show that an environmentally friendly form that extends from the surrounding environment is characterized by high levels of adaptability.

Probionic is a term used to refer to products that are not bionic or biomimetic. Maybe it is because marketing considerations have penetrated these areas. By researching internet sources and information collected over three decades, it seems that the word bionic is used as a marketing tool for probionic products. The history of bionic ideas and the confusing terminology associated with them (the term bionic was coined in 1901) is discussed in research, design, and marketing. The modern meaning of bionic or biomimetic refers to the period between 1800 and 1925 and its proponents Alessandro Volta (electric battery), "Otto Lilienthal" (flying device) and France (concepts). It was reinvented by Forrester and McCulloch around 1960. In Iran, this issue has expanded in the research. The term biomimetic is reminiscent of the term inspired by life; A term that includes everything from bionics to fashion design. However, most of the products that are known as biomimetic products only pretend to have such a principle and application, which is not the case in reality. For this type of products, the term pseudo-biomimetic or probionic is used. The findings of the research show that bionics may be one of the most important contributors in the field of new solutions of nature-based technologies and innovations, thus addressing some of the most important problems of humanity

Architecture is defined by the intersection of different fields of knowledge. Biology, due to its comprehensive nature as a science, can be related to a wide range of technological and creative disciplines. The aim of the research is to explore analogies between architecture and nature, specifically interior architecture and biology. Due to the close relationship between form and function, the inherent balance of forces, and the corresponding geometric solutions found in living organisms, biology is a frequent source of architectural inspiration. The specific aim of this study is to determine how new technologies can reframe and support the process of creating analogies. The benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to the conceptual process are well known among architects and interior designers. The research problem is the cognitive deficit in determining levels of bio similarity in contemporary interior architecture. Therefore, this research attempts to expand awareness about the relationship between biology and interior architecture, to enhance the student's thinking as a tool for creative design, and to keep pace with future thinking in architecture

This article discusses the application of biomimicry strategies in buildings to make them environmentally sustainable. Biomimicry is an innovative approach that imitates the design principles of plants and animals as a design source. This approach is studied in the context of green building objectives such as indoor air quality, water efficiency, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly HVAC systems. This study explores the potential of imitating the biomimicry approach in green building technology. This article discusses how the biomimicry approach creatively solves the green building objective of resource efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of the building. The research method is descriptive-analytical that uses data tools consisting of library and document studies. Research findings have shown that the identification of a specific behavior, principle, function, or feature in an ecosystem or a living organism is conceptualized as biomimicry. The three levels of the biomimicry approach are the organism level, the behavioral level, and the ecosystem level. The organism level refers to the design process, in part or in full, according to the working principle of a specific organism such as a plant or animal. The behavioral level refers to the adaptation of the behavior of a simple natural element (air, water, etc.) in a design. The ecosystem level involves the adaptation of the baseline of the entire ecosystem in a design or solution to a specific problem.

In defining the concept of "metaphor" as "intuitive abstraction of unity in diversities", Aristotle also provides a logical model for understanding analogy-based design processes. Therefore, drawing analogies by producing metaphors is also an important lesson for students in architectural design education, just like all other design methods. This research, starting from the question of "How does the initial conception of the designer become an architectural product", raises a discussion about architectural thinking and design methods based on analogies, the purpose of which is to create perspectives in relation to Architectural design education, which basically aims to improve the design abilities of students by providing the stability of the data of the current environment through subsequent designs. In this course, students are first guided to discover metaphors in their specific fields of study by getting inspiration directly from formal and physical environmental data or indirectly from non-formal and contextual data; And secondly, they are expected to turn the analogies into spatial decisions along with architectural plans. Therefore, this research is conducted in two parts in terms of methodology. The first part analyzes the steps of the process that guides students from concept to product in architectural design education, emphasizing the relational possibility of design by considering analogies/metaphors. In the second part, six research/student products selected from design education research are evaluated in terms of metaphors obtained from the research field and their analogies - or in other words, their reasons for design. Among the results of this research, the conclusions are about how design methods, with which students communicate between environmental data, become architectural products, especially bionic architecture.

The concept of flexibility in residential space design has emerged as a critical strategy to address the dynamic and diverse needs of households, particularly amid rapid socio-economic and demographic changes. In Iran, escalating urbanization, a reduction in household size (from 4.8 to 3.2 members over two decades), and a rising demand for cost-effective housing necessitate a redefinition of residential design paradigms. However, structural obstacles such as rigid building regulations, economic constraints, and cultural resistance to architectural innovation hinder the realization of flexible housing solutions. This study systematically examines the multidimensional factors influencing flexibility in Iran’s residential design, focusing on architectural, socio-cultural, and economic dimensions, while proposing actionable strategies to surmount implementation barriers.Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research integrates quantitative surveys (n=374 residents and professionals) and qualitative interviews (n=15–20) to investigate the interplay of key flexibility determinants. Field studies and comparative analyses of case studies—such as traditional Iranian housing (e.g., Lari House in Yazd, recognized for its cross-shaped plan and adaptable partitions) and modern international models (e.g., Vroesenlaan apartments in the Netherlands, featuring sliding walls and foldable furniture)—provide empirical insights. Quantitative data, analyzed using Pearson correlation and linear regression in SPSS, indicate that economic factors (β=0.45) wield the strongest influence on flexibility, followed by socio-cultural norms (β=0.32) and architectural adaptability (β=0.28). Challenges including elevated retrofit costs (40% above global averages), outdated construction technologies, and cultural attachment to static spatial layouts significantly obstruct the adoption of flexible designs. Notably, only 23% of Tehran’s residential complexes incorporate basic flexibility criteria, highlighting systemic implementation gaps.Thematic analysis of interviews, conducted via NVivo, reveals resistance to non-traditional layouts, with 65% of households abandoning spatial modifications due to financial or structural limitations. Modular systems, multifunctional spaces, and participatory design emerge as effective strategies to enhance adaptability. For instance, the incorporation of movable partitions in the Lari House facilitates seamless transformation of communal areas, while Vroesenlaan’s modular units adapt to family lifecycle changes. These examples demonstrate the feasibility of blending traditional passive techniques (e.g., windcatchers for natural ventilation) with modern prefabrication. However, their application in Iran is curtailed by a regulatory framework prioritizing uniform urban policies over innovative housing solutions. While traditional elements like central courtyards offer culturally resonant flexibility, they require modernization to align with contemporary lifestyles. Conversely, imported technologies encounter resistance due to high costs and misalignment with local identity.This research concludes that a hybrid approach—merging indigenous design principles with advanced technologies—is essential for fostering sustainable, flexible housing in Iran. Policy recommendations include incentivizing modular construction through tax exemptions, revising building codes to permit non-load-bearing walls, and initiating pilot projects in major cities to showcase socio-economic benefits. Educational campaigns to reshape public perceptions and interdisciplinary collaboration among architects, policymakers, and sociologists are deemed critical. By tackling structural, cultural, and economic barriers, this framework seeks to bolster housing resilience, lower long-term renovation costs, and enhance residents’ quality of life. The findings contribute to the global discourse on flexible housing by contextualizing universal principles within Iran’s distinct socio-cultural and economic landscape, offering a model for similar developing regions navigating rapid urbanization and cultural preservation