Identification of the vernacular Kandovan Cave dwelling in Iran

Abstract

Nowadays, response to the environmental issues today is missing. It is vital to inspire from building tradition, however it has completely been forgotten. As it is mentioned in chapter 1, the particular patterns and principles in vernacular context bear sustainability opportunities. They have been designed with particular respect to the natural environment more than anything else. And also behind every piece that they have created, they have ideas and concepts, which reflect their local cultures, traditions and life style. In chapter 2, it is mentioned that each context has numerous potentials, which have different parameters such as, climatic and geographic constraints that they need different particular solutions. Each solution has a different concept beneficial, to catch their goals, in other words, they design according to their needs to getthe benefit of their living environment as well as close surroundings. In chapter 3 and 4, the role of identity in designing spaceswithin cave dwelling is clarified. Importance of evolutions in formation of cave dwelling and role of habitation in this kind of settlement is discussed. Identity of creating spaces in cave contexts is essential because there is a single thought behind every piece, which brings comfortable living conditions to the living environment. Creation of spaces is with consideration of climatical and geographical factors and also availability of material within the context in order to get rid of practical failure in living conditions. Therefore, their main goal is bringing real life to the buildings. Identification of vernacular Kandovan architecture in Iran is mainly based on culture and religion and also their capability of solving natural problems within the context, which have been discussed in chapter 4. Form and characteristics of Kandovan dwelling are backbones of all design characteristics, identity and concept of the settlement, which have been created naturally. And also identity of creating spatial order in, interior spaces with considering the importance of the cultural concepts in every part has been conducted in analysis chapter. Role of protection and privacy are fundamental identity of the dwelling that made occupants to shift their life style and culture to the skirt of mountain to fulfill their needs with highest range of respect to the environment in another important issue in discussion chapter. In conclusion,the distinctive Kandovan architecture and its spatial identity, which are developed according to the contextual needs and traditions, by considering natural issues are thoroughly identified and particular concerns for future development are also discussed in this thesis.