International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

Study of spatial and visual comfort in the reception space of traditional houses in Mashhad city, IRAN

Document Type : Case Study

Authors
1 Department of Architectural engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Boroujerd, Iran
2 Department of Architecture, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
3 Department of Architectural and Civil engineering, University of Torbat Heydarieh, Torbat Heydarieh, Iran
Abstract
Occupant’s comfort is one of the most important aims of architectural designers, which plays an essential role in various aspects, including spatial organization and visual comfort. In traditional Iranian architecture, living room or guesthouse is the main part of the house. This study aims to examine the visual comfort of the two sides of the landscape, communication and quality of light and glare in the living room space. The research is based on the existing studies and resources and software simulations. The method of collecting data is documents and library. The experimental method will be carried out in terms of spatial communication utilizing Depthmap software and visual comfort using Daysim software. Configuration factors and daylight factors were calculated in six Qajar houses of Mashhad, Iran. Factors such as window orientation, window to floor ratio, depth of space in guest’s space are considered to evaluate their effects on the interior luminous environment, consequently on occupant’s visual comfort. For this purpose, the reception space in six traditional houses of Mashhad city has been studied in terms of spatial communication utilizing Depth map software and visual comfort using Daysim software. The spatial configuration and proportions of houses have the potential to be efficient in visual layering, proper perspective, and glare control of the living rooms. Semi-open spaces such as porches, depth of space, window-to-floor surface ratio can be effective in providing uniform light in space.

Graphical Abstract

Study of spatial and visual comfort in the reception space of traditional houses in Mashhad city, IRAN

Highlights

  • in spaces with high depth, creating windows from two opposite fronts can be effective in providing uniform light in space.
  • The spatial configuration and proportion (space depth, window-to-floor surface ratio) can be effective in visual layering, proper landscape and glare control.
  • Daylight can also play an important role in spatial segregation, which is well evident in traditional Iranian architecture.
  • The spatial segration in the interior does not necessarily means that there is visual comfort for the residents.

Keywords

Volume 6, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
Winter 2025
Pages 210-224

  • Receive Date 14 November 2024
  • Revise Date 01 March 2025
  • Accept Date 15 March 2025