Publications
Climate-adaptive thermal behaviour of Howzkhaneh passive cooling systems under diverse climatic conditions
Howzkhaneh passive cooling systems, featuring indoor central pools and natural ventilation, can reduce indoor temperatures by 21–23 °C under extreme outdoor conditions (38–44 °C) without external power, maintaining thermal comfort (22–27 °C) in arid and semi-arid climates. A computational study across Yazd, Tabriz, and Shiraz demonstrated their effectiveness in handling cooling loads of 14–16 kW while raising humidity to near-saturation levels (90–100%). The findings highlight the system's potential for retrofitting heritage buildings and guiding sustainable design in hot climates.
Spatial Analysis of Access to Pharmacies and Medical Diagnostic Laboratories Using Geographic Information System (GIS): A Case Study of Yazd City
A spatial analysis of Yazd City reveals significant inequities in access to pharmacies and medical diagnostic laboratories, with concentrations of diagnostic labs in low-density historic districts and a surplus of pharmacies relative to population needs. Using GIS techniques—including Hot Spot Analysis, Thiessen Polygon, Two-Step Floating Catchment Area (2SFCA), and Nearest Neighbor Distance (NND)—researchers mapped 57 diagnostic laboratories and pharmacies against population distribution, exposing random rather than demand-driven distributions. While District 2’s pharmacy supply aligns with population density, the historic district shows an oversupply, highlighting spatial disparities that urban planning must address to promote equitable healthcare access.
The Impact of Traditional Iranian Architecture on Citizens’ Quality of Life:Examining the Relationship between Space, Culture, and Social Well-Being(A Case Study of Yazd, Kashan, and Tehran)
Traditional Iranian architecture, with its intelligent integration of climate, culture, and indigenous technologies, significantly enhances citizens' quality of life. A study involving 120 residents from historic neighborhoods in Yazd, Kashan, and modern Tehran found that elements like central courtyards, natural materials, human-scale proportions, and introverted layouts foster psychological security, social interactions, and climatic comfort. These findings suggest that reinterpreting traditional architectural principles can address contemporary urban challenges while promoting sustainability, cultural continuity, and resilience. The research used a descriptive-analytical survey approach to analyze perceived outcomes, offering actionable insights for policymakers and designers.
Timeless urban design: the 15-Minute City and Yazd’s historic Fahadan neighborhood
Yazd’s historic Fahadan neighborhood embodies the principles of the 15-Minute City, demonstrating that traditional urban design can achieve modern sustainability goals. A GIS-based analysis revealed a compact, mixed-use morphology where 78.53% of residential areas are within a 5-minute walk of shops and 67.74% near green spaces, with proximity to religious and cultural amenities universally accessible in under 5 minutes. While educational and healthcare services showed lower accessibility—with some areas exceeding the 15-minute threshold—the findings highlight how traditional Iranian urbanism integrates climate-responsive, socially cohesive design without relying on modern infrastructure. This challenges the notion that the 15-Minute City is a contemporary innovation, instead positioning it as a timeless, context-sensitive approach to urban living.
Urban regeneration of industrial heritage cities: A comparative study of textile manufacturing in Łódź (Poland) and Yazd (Iran)
A comparative analysis of urban regeneration processes in Łódź, Poland, and Yazd, Iran reveals distinct strategies for revitalizing textile manufacturing heritage, shaped by their unique political, cultural, and socio-economic contexts. The study synthesizes findings from six doctoral papers to highlight the values associated with industrial heritage and the role of post-industrial functions in urban management. Through semi-structured interviews, fieldwork, and observational analyses, it evaluates spatial integration principles under the Historic Urban Landscape framework while critically assessing how heritage is represented and interpreted. This research offers transferable strategies for policymakers, urban planners, and heritage managers to promote equitable, culturally informed, and sustainable urban transformation in industrial districts.
Accessibility patterns and socio-spatial dynamics: Insights from the historic city of Yazd
The historic city of Yazd exhibits distinct spatial hierarchies and circulation networks that deeply influence its socio-cultural dynamics. A study using Angular Segment analysis revealed how the city's urban fabric integrates traditional social practices and cultural values into its built environment, shaping everyday functionality and heritage identity. This approach uncovered patterns of integration, foreground-background relationships, and movement networks, offering insights that bridge spatial analysis with cultural interpretation. The findings underscore the importance of preserving these socio-spatial dynamics for the liveability and integrity of historic cities, contributing significantly to debates on urban conservation and planning.
Developing a localized resilience assessment framework for historical districts: A case study of Yazd, Iran
A localized resilience assessment framework for historical districts, applied to Yazd, Iran—a UNESCO World Heritage site—reveals that social dimensions and housing infrastructure are the most critical factors for urban resilience. This study adapted and downscaled indicators from established DROP and BRIC models, evaluating seven key dimensions across 17 criteria using advanced multi-criteria decision-making methods like Delphi, Fuzzy DEMATEL, Fuzzy ANP, and VIKOR. The analysis identified specific districts with lower adaptability, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to enhance resilience in culturally significant urban areas. These findings offer a robust, context-specific approach for policymakers and urban planners.
Economic indicator assessment and prioritization in Yazd City: a study of learning city development in Iran
A strong correlation (R² = 0.91) between economic stability and learning city attributes was identified in Yazd, Iran, a UNESCO-listed heritage site. The study used mixed-methods analysis, including statistical tests and regression modeling, to prioritize urban districts based on economic performance. Area 7 emerged as the most developed, while Area 5 lagged due to infrastructure gaps. This data-driven approach offers actionable insights for balanced learning city development in Yazd and similar contexts.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Urban Regeneration: The Comparative Study of the Industrial Heritage Sites of Łódź (Poland) and Yazd (Iran)
Effective urban regeneration of industrial heritage sites requires balancing public and private financing while mitigating excessive private influence, prioritizing accessibility improvements, infrastructure development, and adaptive reuse of historical resources. These strategies not only generate financial income but also deliver social benefits and preserve cultural heritage values. A comparative study of Łódź (Poland) and Yazd (Iran), two cities with shared textile manufacturing histories but distinct socio-cultural and economic contexts, reveals that successful regeneration achieves both economic outcomes and cultural preservation. The research employed semi-structured interviews, fieldwork, and observational analyses to assess revitalization projects, applying a synthetic qualitative data approach to compare urban regeneration strategies across the two regions.
Exploring the Sustainability in a Rural Area of the World Heritage City of Yazd During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A surviving eco-lodge in Yazd, Irandemonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic through sustainable innovations that could serve as a model for similar rural tourism ventures. The study found that strategies such as collaborating with local entrepreneurs, promoting handicraft sales via social media, organizing creative events for children, and partnering with universities and NGOs helped the eco-lodge maintain financial stability and community support amid the pandemic's economic disruptions. The research employed qualitative methods, including a semi-structured interview with the lodge owner and analysis of his operational data, to assess sustainability practices in adaptive reuse of traditional architecture. This case highlights the potential for rural heritage sites to thrive through innovative, community-centered approaches even during global crises.
Integrating population preferences into the 15-minute city index: A study of spatial accessibility and equity in the historic city of Yazd
Urban planning in historic Yazd, Iran, faces significant spatial inequities, with essential services like healthcare and education concentrated in the city center while outskirts remain underserved. A study reveals no correlation between neighborhood density and accessibility to these services within a 15-minute walking distance, challenging assumptions about proximity-based urban design. By integrating local population preferences into a customized 15-minute city index, researchers identified distinct spatial patterns that highlight disparities in access. This approach offers a framework for targeted interventions to foster equitable, sustainable development, promoting healthy communities by prioritizing localized needs and patterns.
Microclimate effects and outdoor thermal comfort of green roof types in hot and dry climates: Modelling in the historic city of Yazd, Iran
Intensive green roofs significantly enhance thermal comfort and modify microclimate parameters in Yazd, Iran's hot and arid climate, outperforming extensive green roofs and non-vegetated roofs. Simulation using the ENVI-met model revealed that intensive green roofs reduced air temperature, mean radiant temperature, and longwave radiation while increasing wind speed and relative humidity, creating more comfortable conditions (PMV = 0.18) during early morning hours (7:00–9:00 am). However, despite these improvements, all scenarios remained classified as 'very hot' or 'hot,' indicating limited effectiveness under Yazd's extreme climatic conditions, characterized by high temperatures, intense radiation, and severe water scarcity. The study suggests that while green roofs can ameliorate microclimate and thermal comfort, their practical application in such harsh environments is not advisable.
Urban renewal problem: Contrast between people and local officials in historic district in Ardakan, Yazd, Iran
Urban renewal efforts in Ardakan, Yazd, Iran's historic district face significant challenges, with a stark contrast between the perspectives of residents and local officials. Despite restoration initiatives in the 1990s, issues such as dilapidated, abandoned buildings (DABs), urban decay, and inadequate parking persist, threatening the area's heritage. The study advocates for an integrated urban renewal framework (URF) that incorporates both governance and resident perspectives to effectively promote the historic district. This approach is based on qualitative interviews with local stakeholders, a review of city documents, and observational data, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of urban renewal in historic districts.
World Heritage and Tourism Innovation
A surviving eco-lodge in Yazd, Iran, demonstrates resilience through innovative sustainability practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key strategies included collaboration with local entrepreneurs, promotion of local handicrafts via social media, and partnerships with universities and NGOs. The study highlights adaptive reuse of traditional architecture to blend tourism with local culture while providing economic support for women and youth. Semi-structured interviews and owner contributions provided data, revealing how such eco-lodges can thrive by integrating sustainability principles into their operations.
Examining the Impact of Social Factors on Spatial Desirability of Urban Neighbourhoods
Social and spatial factors are deeply interconnected, mutually reinforcing each other to shape the vitality and desirability of urban neighbourhoods. This study, focusing on the UNESCO World Heritage site of Yazd, Iran, reveals that neighbourhoods with strong social dimensions—such as safety, place attachment, and social interaction—also exhibit higher spatial desirability. Through qualitative analysis, including semi-structured interviews with residents and stakeholders, observation of physical structures, and content analysis, researchers identified three key socio-cultural factors influencing neighbourhood liveliness. The findings suggest that spatial layouts can amplify social vitality, offering design policies for creating socially integrated and spatially desirable communities in Iran and potentially other similar contexts.
Estimating Litter production amount and quality for Eldar pine and umbrella Elm trees in historic city of Yazd
A comparative analysis of litter production between Eldar pine and umbrella Elm trees in Yazd's historic city reveals no significant difference in total litter amount, though Elm exhibits higher specific leaf area (169.38 cm²/g vs. 29.96 cm²/g for pine) and lower C/N ratios. Annual litter production is estimated at 1.622–4.507 ton/ha for pines and 1.642–4.562 ton/ha for Elms, with peak fall occurring in September (pine) and November (Elm). The study highlights the need to optimize conifer planting ratios to reduce municipal litter management costs while enhancing soil productivity. Litterbags were used monthly to measure nutrient content (N, P, Ca, S, C, Mg, K), revealing significant differences in organic matter but not in carbon, calcium, or magnesium levels.
Investigation of Pirnia's orientation theory (Roon) in Yazd Qajar houses
A study challenging Pirnia's long-standing theory on the orientation of Yazd Qajar houses reveals that religious factors, not climate or regional knowledge, primarily influenced architectural direction. Analyzing 40 traditional houses, researchers found that only five deviated from the southwest orientation proposed by Pirnia, yet climate factors like wind and sun had negligible impact. This undermines the theory's foundation, suggesting that past Iranian architects prioritized religious considerations over environmental ones, despite widespread academic endorsement.
Spatial Liminality as a Framework for Revitalising Dilapidated Abandoned Buildings in Historic Cities: A Case Study
Dilapidated abandoned buildings (DABs) in historic cities contribute to the breakdown of sense of community identification and place, indicating a lack of spatial liminality. This study introduces spatial liminality as an epistemological tool for revitalizing disused urban fabrics, demonstrating that in-between spaces once facilitated spatial liminality, which was crucial for the formation of sense of place and citizenship during premodern eras. Using a mixed-method approach—combining questionnaire surveys, field studies, and interpretive historical analysis—the research investigates 12 urban blocks in historic Yazd and Kashan. The findings suggest that reutilizing DABs while preserving their heritage values can restore spatial liminality and strengthen community identity.
The Effect of Improper Interfering in The Historical Architecture on Energy Wasting (Case Study: Bibi-Roqayyeh House, Yazd, Iran)
Removing integral components of traditional Iranian architecture significantly increases energy consumption, highlighting the importance of preserving historical urban systems. A study simulating the Bibi-Roqayyeh House in Yazd found that eliminating neighboring structures, the SABAT (a wind catcher), and high parapets raised total energy use by 21.81%. These elements, though not primarily designed for thermal regulation, play a crucial role in maintaining thermal comfort. The research underscores how improper interventions in historic cities can disrupt sustainable design principles, offering critical insights for conservation efforts.
Comparative Analysis of Qajar Historic Houses in Tabriz, Isfahan, Yazd, and Kashan, Regarding their Architectural Forms and Elements
Qajar-era historic houses across Iran, including those in Tabriz, Isfahan, Yazd, and Kashan, exhibit harmonized architectural characteristics that blend foreign influences with local culture and climate. Key features include the use of columns in main façades, emphasis on symmetry in entrances, and the integration of new ornamental patterns with ancient elements. A comparative study of these houses reveals a consistent architectural approach that adapted external cultural influences to reinforce local identity. The research employs qualitative methods, analyzing reliable historical sources and firsthand materials to highlight this period's innovative yet culturally rooted design principles.
Interrelations of Ancestral Textile Handicraft Weaving and Tangible Vernacular Karkhanehs (Workspaces) in the Historic Destination of Yazd, Iran
A study reveals the deep interrelation between ancestral textile weaving and vernacular architecture in Yazd, Iran, highlighting how intangible cultural practices and tangible built heritage coexist across three scales: domestic karkhanehs (workspaces), neighborhoods, and the UNESCO World Heritage city. Using architectural analysis and Actor-Network Theory, researchers traced networks of actors—spanning genders, ages, beliefs, and practices—to show how these elements collectively shape heritage textiles. The findings also underscore the complex dynamics between economy, culture, society, and tourism in preserving such traditions while managing their impacts on conservation efforts.
Local seismic culture in Iranian vernacular architecture: evidence from Yazd earthen architecture
Iranian vernacular architecture, particularly earthen structures in Yazd, demonstrates remarkable seismic resilience through a range of traditional techniques. This study identifies and classifies these earthquake-resistant methods, drawing on historical surveys, literature reviews, and interviews with local builders and conservators. The analysis highlights how these techniques, such as specific construction materials and structural designs, mitigated damage during the 2003 Bam earthquake. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, Yazd's architectural heritage offers valuable insights into local seismic cultures, showcasing adaptable solutions for earthquake-prone regions.
A comprehensive proposal for the sustainable regeneration of historical city centres in Iran
A comprehensive proposal for the sustainable regeneration of historical city centres in Iran introduces a participatory approach to address governance, social sustainability, and quality of life (QOL) in historic urban fabrics. The study identifies key phases of urban regeneration, stakeholder roles, and critical factors affecting social sustainability through extensive fieldwork involving experts and over 1,800 local residents across four case studies—Ardakan, Yazd, Kashan, and Naeen. It proposes practical guidelines to prioritize interventions based on identified challenges and opportunities, aiming to integrate technical, administrative, and management strategies for sustainable development. The research highlights the importance of stakeholder collaboration in overcoming institutional barriers and provides a foundation for policymakers to focus regeneration efforts effectively.
A tourism-oriented conservation plan for a historic neighborhood based on urban design qualities: The case of Yazd in Iran
A tourism-oriented conservation plan for the historic Shah Abul-Ghasem Neighborhood in Yazd, Iran, has been proposed to balance heritage preservation with sustainable tourism growth. The study identifies key urban design qualities—environmental, functional, and aesthetic-experimental—that can guide conservation efforts while enhancing visitor experiences. Using a field survey approach, researchers categorized architectural and spatial elements through photography, providing actionable recommendations for policymakers and urban planners. This plan aims to preserve Yazd's UNESCO-listed heritage while supporting its role as a cultural tourism destination.
Assessing elements of potential tourism resources in a historic city from host community and tourists’ viewpoints: A perspective from Iran
A study assessing tourism potential in Yazd's Fahadan neighborhood reveals that while the host community highly values the impact of UNESCO World Heritage inscription, tourists prioritize local capacities. Despite positive perceptions from locals and the area's cultural richness, inefficiencies in tourism management hinder its ability to attract visitors. The research used surveys with 170 participants each from both groups, analyzing responses via SPSS to evaluate three key components: impacts of inscription, local capacities, and other factors. Findings highlight a disconnect between community attitudes and tourist expectations, underscoring the need for improved organizational oversight.
Sustainable Tourism Development in Historic Cities of Arid Regions with the Revival of Qanat (Yazd City)
Qanats, ancient underground water channels, hold significant potential for sustainable tourism development in arid historic cities, including Yazd, Iran. Recognized as both a cultural and geological heritage by UNESCO, qanats can enhance geotourism while promoting conservation efforts. A study using the Delphi model and SWOT analysis identified key strengths and opportunities for qanat-based tourism in Yazd, emphasizing strategies such as investment, local community involvement, and the creation of museums within qanats to boost tourism sustainably. This approach not only revitalizes a traditional water management system but also supports the preservation of Yazd's World Heritage status.
Understanding Traditional Anti-Seismic Strategies Beyond Their Disappearance and Distortions: Yazd Qajar Architecture Case Study
Traditional anti-seismic strategies in historic buildings, particularly those made of adobe, can still offer valuable insights for modern restoration efforts, even as these techniques fade and distort over time. A study on Yazd's Qajar architecture reveals that mixing materials like baked bricks with adobe in vaults enhances seismic resistance, a finding validated through both field observations and experimental tests on masonry shear strength. The research suggests expanding the scope of seismic analysis to include broader geographical areas and elements not immediately obvious as seismic features. This approach could guide more effective restoration projects in earthquake-prone regions, though its limits must be carefully considered.
Urban Public Policy and the Formation of Dilapidated Abandoned Buildings in Historic Cities: Causes, Impacts and Recommendations
A significant disparity exists between urban public policy intentions and their outcomes in historic Iranian cities, leading to the proliferation of dilapidated abandoned buildings (DABs). These structures are linked to socio-spatial disadvantage, yet current governance frameworks involving three key agencies lack effective implementation. A qualitative study, comprising 19 in-depth interviews across Yazd, Kashan, and Isfahan, identified critical gaps in policy execution through thematic analysis. The findings highlight the need for integrated management strategies to mitigate DABs, offering a blueprint for revitalizing historic urban areas. This research provides actionable insights for policymakers aiming to address urban decay while preserving cultural heritage.
Estimation of Carrying Capacity in Historic City of Yazd for Walking Tourists during Nowruz Holidays
During the Nowruz Holidays, the Historic City of Yazd's walking tourism pathway experiences significantly lower visitor numbers compared to its estimated carrying capacity. This study, using a combination of library-documentary and analytical methods, including AutoCAD software for spatial analysis and expert panel consultations, reveals that current tourist influx falls well below sustainable limits. To address potential overcrowding during peak seasons, the research proposes strategic interventions such as developing alternative attractions, redistributing crowds to less congested pathways, implementing time-limited tours, extending visiting hours in the first half of the year, enhancing urban space quality, and organizing trained tour guides for effective crowd management.
Investigation and Optimisation of a Sidewalk Restoration Program in Human Transportation in an Ancient Sustainable City
Sidewalk conditions in Yazd are deteriorating with a condition index ranging from 55 to 70, indicating moderate distress. This study highlights the critical role of sidewalks in maintaining pedestrian dynamism and urban development, particularly in historic cities like Yazd, which attracts global tourism. To address this, researchers employed the SCI method—similar to the pavement condition index (PCI)—to assess sidewalk quality systematically. The findings underscore the urgent need for proactive restoration programs to prevent further decline and preserve Yazd's cultural and functional integrity.
Socio-spatial vulnerability and dilapidated abandoned buildings (DABs) through the lens of spatial liminality: A case study in Iran
A significant association exists between the extent of dilapidated-abandoned buildings (DABs) and socio-spatial vulnerability, particularly through spatial liminality, in historic Iranian cities. This condition is characterized by an influx of non-local disadvantaged residents seeking cheaper housing while remaining in a state of limbo. The study, conducted across twelve urban blocks in Yazd and Kashan, employed quantitative methods including questionnaire surveys and on-site observations. Findings reveal that DABs serve as liminal urban fabrics, often coinciding with refugee settlements, highlighting the need for their reutilization without compromising heritage value. This research provides a framework for practitioners, policymakers, and academicians to address urban regeneration in historic cities, moving them out of spatial liminality.
Assessment of Local People Opinion After World Heritage Site Designation, Case Study: Historic City of Yazd, Iran
A majority of local residents in Yazd, Iran, expressed dissatisfaction with the city's inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage List, with over 80% reporting no change in their quality of life post-designation. The study, based on interviews with 400 individuals, revealed a lack of awareness and misunderstanding about the roles of national and international organizations in heritage management. This challenges the assumption that local communities are inherently supportive of World Heritage Site (WHS) designation. The research highlights the need for better communication and engagement to align WHS conservation efforts with local expectations.
Soundscape preferences of tourists in historical urban open spaces
Motorcycle and automobile noises significantly disrupt acoustic comfort in Yazd's historic squares, while sounds of children’s play, water, conversation, and businesses enhance it. A study involving 632 foreign tourists in Khan Square and Fahadan Square identified these key factors through surveys, correlation analysis, ANOVA, and multiple regression. The findings underscore the importance of managing urban soundscapes to improve environmental quality for tourism, particularly in UNESCO-listed heritage sites like Yazd.
Learning from Urban Heritage Conservation in Yazd: Achievements and Warnings
Yazd's urban heritage conservation offers valuable lessons for preserving Iranian cities, highlighting the significance of open public spaces as catalysts for historic city recovery. The study identifies key challenges and achievements, including the high costs and uncertain outcomes of private interventions, community involvement, transportation systems, and the underutilized potential of religious endowments. By analyzing local authorities' roles, development plans, conservation methods in public and private spaces, and social engagement, the research provides insights into effective strategies for urban heritage preservation. It underscores the transition from generic objectives to specialized planning, emphasizing the importance of balancing central functions and soft mobility solutions.
Strategic Planning of Cultural Tourism Development in Historic City of Yazd (Case Study: Fahadan Neighbourhood)
A strategic plan for cultural tourism development in the Fahadan neighborhood of Yazd, Iran, prioritizes offensive strategies to capitalize on its strengths and opportunities. Key recommendations include establishing eco-hotels, organizing walking tours, enhancing national and international advertising, strengthening social capital through NGO support, hosting handicraft fairs, providing financial incentives via tax laws, and implementing comprehensive rehabilitation plans. The study employed the SWOT matrix, IFE and EFE matrices, and expert opinions to assess the neighborhood's potential, identifying offensive strategies as the most viable for implementation.
Redefinition of Pedestrian Route-Finding Networks as a Tool to Return Vitality and Responsiveness to Yazd Khan Plaza
A strategic redefinition of pedestrian route-finding networks can effectively restore vitality and responsiveness to historic urban spaces, as demonstrated by the case study of Yazd Khan Plaza in Iran. The research proposes that balancing social life in historic contexts—often disrupted by modern urban elements—can be achieved by leveraging existing communication networks while strategically redefining historic pathways. This approach addresses imbalances caused by Pahlavi-era street lines, offering a solution to reclaim dynamic public spaces without altering the core structure of heritage sites. The study provides executable strategies to enhance pedestrian connectivity, ensuring comprehensive dynamism in historically significant areas.
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