The role of geometrical features in the architectural- structural interaction: Some case studies of the Iranian ancient architecture

This research aims to enhance the interaction between a structure and its architectural form. Having a qualitative approach, the present work discovers some successfully used geometrical features of the Iranian ancient architecture in terms of the architectural-structural interaction. We define four qualitative criteria for this assessment, i.e., construction-ability, cost effectiveness, participation of the structure in fulfillment of the visual, and functional-semantic needs of the architectural form. For this purpose, two case studies including the Jamé Mosque of Isfahan and the Soltaniyeh building are investigated. The outcomes of this research help designers to not only design efficient structures by adapting non-load bearing elements with the general form of the structure, but also meet concepts such as the unity or perfectionism in the structure.