Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Architecture, Ke.C., Islamic Azad University, Kerman, Iran
2
Department of Art Studies, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
low-income groups in developing countries, where residential units constitute a major share of household wealth. In post-revolutionary Iran, rapid population growth, economic instability, and large-scale public housing programs have intensified challenges related to the formation and quality of low-cost housing. Despite extensive governmental interventions, many low-cost housing projects have failed to adequately respond to the socio-economic conditions of their residents. Therefore, this study aims to identify and prioritize the socio-economic factors influencing the formation of low-cost housing architecture after Iran’s Islamic Revolution, with a specific focus on the Mehr Housing project in Kerman city. The research adopts a mixed qualitative-quantitative approach and employs integrated fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making models, including the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process and Fuzzy Analytic Network Process. Data were collected through literature review, expert interviews, and structured questionnaires completed by professionals involved in housing projects. The models were used to determine the relative importance of main criteria and sub-criteria, as well as their internal causal relationships. The findings indicate that contractual indicators play the most critical role in shaping low-cost housing architecture, followed by financial and economic indicators, and technical and technological indicators. Administrative and systematic indicators ranked lowest but were found to have indirect mediating effects. Among sub-criteria, issues such as poor contract management, lack of coordination among contractors, and unfamiliarity of project stakeholders with implementation methods showed the highest influence.The study concludes that low-cost housing should be understood as a complex socio-economic system rather than a purely technical or cost-driven product. Addressing contractual inefficiencies and stabilizing financial mechanisms are essential for improving the quality and sustainability of low-cost housing in Iran.
Graphical Abstract
Highlights
The research examines the socio-economic drivers influencing the formation of low-cost housing architecture in post-revolutionary Iran, with a focus on the Mehr Housing project in Kerman.
An integrated mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative analysis with fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making models (FAHP and FANP).
The framework evaluates main criteria and sub-criteria while exploring their causal relationships within housing development processes.
Findings show that contractual indicators are the most influential factors, followed by financial–economic and technical–technological indicators, while administrative factors have indirect mediating effects.
The study concludes that low-cost housing should be treated as a complex socio-economic system, highlighting the need for improved contract management and stable financial mechanisms to enhance long-term quality and sustainability.
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