Design strategies in Rasht city using the principles of historical architecture

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture & Art, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Faculty member of research institute of cultural heritage and tourism, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Faculty member of research institute of cultural heritage and tourism, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Identity, continuity of architectural ideas, and beauty of buildings and urban textures can come from the connection between the past and the present. Whereas failure to pay attention to the past, in addition to heterogeneity and the gradual loss of the identity of the cities, will also result in cultural incompatibility. Historical and vernacular architecture in any place has developed in lockstep with the natural and constructed environment around it over time. New constructions without proper planning in any region and especially in the historical context can cause serious damage to the existing architectural values. The use of historical architectural elements and features in the design and construction of contemperory architectural buildings in a new way can lead to proper cohesion and continuity in the urban context. The purpose of this research is to develop and present design strategies in Rasht city using historical architecture principles.
In this regard, in the first stage, the research concepts are explained and the design strategy development process is introduced using the descriptive analytical method. In the second stage (extracting the principles and rules of historical architecture), 15 historical buildings of Rasht city are analyzed as a case study. The design strategies in the city of Rasht are codified and presented using the historical architectural features obtained in the second stage of the research.
The findings showed that Rasht's historical buildings have specific physical components in size, height and location in site. The use of semi-open spaces (porches) as one of the main characteristics of the building with various shapes and styles and different functions plays an important role in the formation of the exterior façade of the building. The variety of surfaces to create visual richness, various openings and ornaments are façade’s distinctive features. These principles were used in design strategies in the city of Rasht.

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Main Subjects

Urban Planning Knowledge
Volume 9, Issue 3
December 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 20 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 17 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 03 December 2025

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