Flexible Configuration: Selective Connect-Ability in Traditional Iranian Houses: Fid-Bau Portal

Flexible Configuration: Selective Connect-Ability in Traditional Iranian Houses

Estaji, Hassan

This chapter explores the concept of flexible configuration of spaces in traditional Iranian houses, considering the challenges posed by changing societies, lifestyles and living conditions. Societies as well as living conditions are subject to continuous change. Societies have to adapt to their environment, and consequently, the living spaces must be changed following new demands. An ideal house should be able to meet the needs of its residents or near-future users throughout their lives. Any changes in the house users, their needs and the physical and cultural environment require a flexible and changeable spatial configuration to be simple enough to be usable and used. The common construction technology in traditional Iranian architecture was the use of load-bearing thick clay walls. In this construction method, it is almost impossible to change the position of the rooms. The use of multiple doors as connections between rooms allows for the alteration of spatial relationships and the creation of diverse configurations. The research utilises space syntax theory and methods to analyse the spatial configuration of traditional houses in Sabzevar, located in Northeast Iran. Space syntax tools are employed to quantify spatial patterns and elucidate the relationships between spaces and house users. Calculations considering potential openings confirm the possibility of creating various spatial configurations in traditional Iranian houses. The presence of numerous openings and potential openings within rooms results in the formation of multiple loops within the system. The number of loops directly correlates with the distributedness of the system. This high degree of flexibility enhances the house’s adaptability to future changes and enables it to respond effectively to different scenarios throughout its lifecycle. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the design principles and spatial dynamics inherent in traditional Iranian houses. The knowledge gained from this research can inform future architectural practices, facilitating the development of more adaptable and responsive housing designs and helping preserve historical and traditional houses by changing them based on contemporary needs.