Islamic Art Studies

Islamic Art Studies

Functional Characteristics of Open Spaces in Residential Complexes and Their Role in Design

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Seyedeh Sara Ebnolreza 1
Hamid Majedi 2
Farah Habib 3
1 PhD student, Department of Architecture, Science and Research Unit, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
2 Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Science and Research Unit, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
3 Professor, Department of Architecture, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/ias.2023.408019.2256
Abstract
In contemporary urban environments, individuals residing in city centers often experience an intrinsic sense of deficiency in their lives. This sentiment arises directly from the creation of artificial environments that have systematically removed natural elements. An ideal space is one that is inviting, drawing individuals into its embrace. The necessity for reciprocal social interaction is paramount to fulfill human needs for connection and a sense of belonging to a place. Neglecting the criteria for suitable spaces from the users' perspective undermines the primary function of these spaces, which is rooted in human presence. Careful examination and reconsideration of the relationship between humans and their spatial environments can yield strategies to enhance the quality of this relationship. Open spaces within residential complexes serve as the outermost areas of homes and act as critical junctions connecting residents to urban settings. Functionally, these spaces are considered external components and serve as venues for fostering more open and communal activities. However, today, the availability of open spaces in residential complexes has been largely restricted to enclosed and limited balcony areas.
The impetus for this research stems from a deficiency in theoretical foundations regarding measures taken to adapt residential environments for social interactions in Iran, which has led to a simplistic approach to this issue. The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between the physical, semantic, and functional characteristics of open spaces in residential complexes and their implications for design. The research methodology is survey-based, utilizing questionnaires administered to residents of ten selected residential complexes in Tehran. Following the classification and selection of case studies, questionnaires were developed, and data were collected. The findings indicate that effective spatial organization can facilitate meaningful communication among residents. Furthermore, statistical analyses reveal that physical factors exert the most significant influence on social interactions, while functional factors have a comparatively lesser impact.
Research Aims:
To examine the components influencing social interactions within high-rise residential buildings.
To enhance social interaction within residential complexes.
Research Questions:
What environmental components within residential complexes facilitate social interactions among residents?
What factors reinforce social interactions in residential complexes?
Keywords
Residential complex
physical characteristics
open space
semantic characteristics
functional characteristics

Subjects

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