Sustainability indicators of Iranian vernacular architecture: The case of Yazd

ABSTRACT: In this research, case study of Yazd city is analyzed in terms of the following environmental sustainability factors: climate, renewable energy usage, water consumption, open space and greeneries, reducing waste and sustainable building materials. The environmental sustainability factors that have been utilized up until now in the city of Yazd, as well as the analysis of the proper use of such methods along with the developments of technology. In chapter one, the issue of sustainability in architecture, Yazd city as a case study for demonstrating the characteristics of vernacular architecture and where this city stands now, under influence of architectural components of Iranian architecture, are explained briefly in the introduction section. Subsequently, the problem statement, aims and objectives, research methodology, limitation and significance of the study have been explained. In chapter two, the dissertation explores the characteristic of sustainability in architecture, what is the definition of environmental sustainability and what are the aspects and issues in relation to environmental sustainability in architecture. In sequence, chapter three analyses the general environment and geography of city of Yazd including precipitation, wind and sand storm issues. Afterwards the general urban pattern of Yazd city, in relation to the specific periods in the history of development of Yazd city is visualized by investigating the urban pattern. Therefore, the urban texture is discussed including following issues: structure of the city, compactness, dense texture, narrow, Irregular Street and covered streets. Moreover main spatial component of the vernacular houses of Yazd are analysed. In chapter four, the information retrieved from chapter two and three are combined and also discussed. Therefore, Yazd city is evaluated according to environmental sustainability factors, environmental sustainability components, and environmental indicator of Yazd architecture and spatial organization of Yazd. Conclusion section is followed by some recommendations. In sustainable architecture, the main issue is the productive usage of the environmental conditions and the architectural components. Historically, human beings have always strived to build dwellings that are in harmony with the surrounding environment in order to be able to feel safe and comfortable. In this respect, it is said that geography and weather conditions are directly related to the formations of residences. Due to the fact that Yazd‟s main concern during the contemporary time is the lack of respect for environmental aspects and having a hot and dry climate, the city has been chosen for further analysis in order to oversee the problems of the environment and the ways they solve the problems and how they reflect on the vernacular architectural components of that region. Keywords: Sustainable architecture, vernacular architecture, Iranian traditional architecture, Environmental Sustainability, Yazd. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………