The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar

Investigating the Effects of Lifestyle on the Spatial Organization of Contemporary Iranian Houses (Case study: Living Spaces in Pahlavi-era Houses in Urmia, Iran)

https://doi.org/10.22034/bagh.2024.466500.5632
Volume 21, Issue 140
February 2025
Pages 61-78
The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

Sahar Karimzadeh 1
Mohammadreza Pakdel Fard 2
Babak Motiei 3
Rasoul Darskhan 4

1 Ph.D. Student in Architecture, International Aras Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University,Tabriz, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University,Urmia, Iran.

4 Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University,Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract
Problem statement: Lifestyle refers to the interactions of biological, social-cultural, and economic factors and their effects on the living models of people in society. One example of this interaction is the quality of the living environment and the spatial organization, which consequently affects house architecture.
Research objective: The main goal of the study was to explore the effects of lifestyle on the spatial configuration of Pahlavi-era houses by emphasizing living spaces in Urmia City houses.
Research method: This study is descriptive-analytical. The study was performed using library and field sources. In this connection, 18 houses in Urmia City were selected in purposive and convenience sampling for analysis. 
Conclusion: Findings showed that over time various spaces of houses have undergone changes, with rooms turning into living-, bed- and launch rooms and extroversion into introversion. The early Pahlavi-era plan model consisted of a central courtyard and rooms accessible through corridors, as courtyards later became separate spaces and the living area took center stage. Living spaces have become integrated into other spaces and their decorations have included translucent walls, cement floors, and plaster-worked materials. The living spaces of this era were rectangular and involved separating doors, hence adjoining the bedroom, hall, and kitchen sections. Various activities such as taking rest and eating used to be performed in the living space, which was connected to outdoors via the balcony, terrace, and courtyard. These findings showed that space design and spatial arrangement were the influence of the lifestyle and culture of residents, and for this, it is pivotal to understand its characteristics and improve the lifestyle. 

Keywords

Pahlavi era
Spatial organization
Lifestyle
Living space
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