Abstract In the contemporary world, cities play a pivotal role in urban diplomacy by enhancing their economic, political, and cultural positions, which necessitates exploring effective strategies for tourism development. This study addresses the critical issue of how Shiraz can elevate its competitiveness among regional and international destinations, focusing on the mechanisms of inter-urban interactions and collaborations to strengthen its tourism economy. Employing a qualitative approach with a phenomenological framework, the research utilized descriptive and Klai’s analytic methods to analyze data collected through semi-structured interviews and purposeful sampling from tourists and experts who had visited Shiraz’s attractions. The findings revealed that healthy competition and inter-urban collaboration significantly contribute to improving tourism infrastructure, including the construction of new hotels, public transportation development, and enhanced tourist services, while challenges such as inadequate planning, insufficient infrastructure, and underutilization of cultural and historical capacities were also identified. Ultimately, the study concludes that effective collaboration among governments, citizens, and cities through urban diplomacy serves as a powerful tool for tourism development and urban economies, emphasizing the importance of diversifying tourist attractions, leveraging modern technologies, and strengthening international relations to solidify Shiraz's position as a leading tourist destination regionally and globally, with key insights highlighting the processes of urban diplomacy, urban economy, tourist attraction, and infrastructure deficiencies.
 

Abstract Aims: In the current era, the increasing competition among cities to attract tourists and investors has turned urban branding into an inevitable necessity. However, the challenge faced by many cities in preserving urban identity—as the core element of branding—is evident. This study aims to analyze the impact of the architecture and identity of urban gateways on the formation of audiences’ mental imagery and the strengthening of urban branding, using the case study of the "Darvazeh Quran of Shiraz".
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical research employed both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were collected through documentary studies and surveys, and the responses from questionnaires were analyzed using statistical techniques.
Findings: The findings indicate that well-designed urban gateways, considering the factors of quality, functionality, and context, can significantly contribute to branding. The Quran Gate in Shiraz, with its strategic location, iconic form, and harmony with natural and historical surroundings, has become one of the key symbols of identity and branding for the city. This gateway, by creating collective memories and positive mental images, has not only strengthened the sense of belonging but also played a pivotal role in enhancing the city's status.
 

Abstract Introduction and Objective: Place attachment is the emotional and cognitive bond individuals have with their living environment, playing a key role in satisfaction and quality of life. This concept is particularly significant for women, who spend a large portion of their time in residential settings. The main objective of this study is to clarify the role of architectural factors in creating a sense of place attachment in the residential complexes under study.

Research Method: This qualitative study uses grounded theory. Data were collected through 43 in-depth interviews with women residing in residential complexes, with sampling conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved.

Findings: The results indicate that physical, functional, symbolic, and social components play an important role in creating place attachment. However, in the Ekbatan residential complexes, the findings highlight the significant impact of functional and physical aspects, such as ergonomic design of residential units, appropriate lighting, and close connection to nature. In the Omid residential complexes, in addition to adhering to physical factors, special emphasis is placed on psychological components. The findings show that the presence of welfare and social facilities, optimal environmental design, and close contact with nature among women increase attachment and a sense of belonging.

Conclusion: The findings of this study can serve as a theoretical basis for developing architectural design principles aimed at strengthening place attachment in women. This study provides solutions for architects and designers to create more desirable residential environments by considering the psychological and social needs of women.

Abstract The urban arrangement of shared spaces that has emerged from the common pattern of land use subdivision in urban blocks,governed by regulations surrounding residential density or floor area ratio in Tehran and other cities, bears no relation to its counterparts in progressive urban planning globally or to Iranian-Islamic patterns.
Aims:The aim of this research is to review and define urban blocks based on the authentic Iranian-Islamic urban planning model with an emphasis on common space and central courtyard.
Method:This research is a qualitative futures research with the strategy and techniques of internal and external case studies, landscape design, 3D simulation and Delphi, and was based on the simulation of the Agha Bozorg Mosque-School of Kashan, in which the mosque type was assigned to the school type.
Findings:In this research, a participatory perspective was conducted after interviews and field observations, three-dimensional simulation, and library and descriptive studies using the Delphi technique, in which the opinions of experts were taken and analyzed through the SWOT model, the results of which indicate an aggressive approach (max-max-so-) meaning maximum efficiency of the opportunities leading to the plan, for future urban developments based on its strengths.
Conclusion:This research has proposed a new concept of segmentation and block pattern based on shared space and Iranian-Islamic urban planning in the form of a primary cell design diagram.The new urban block pattern will also facilitate the presence and residence of all segments of the population, provide more green and open space, improve traffic issues, and promote sustainable development.
 

Abstract Objective: This study examines the changes in green coverage of Nagarestan Garden in Tehran’s District 12 from 1321 to 1404 (Persian calendar) and its impact on air quality, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and public health. It also analyzes residents’ perspectives and simulates scenarios of 35% (minimum) and 70% (maximum) green coverage increase to propose solutions for reducing air pollution, enhancing urban quality of life, and achieving environmental sustainability in dense historical contexts.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating historical data analysis, satellite imagery, simulations using i-Tree Canopy software, and field surveys with 384 respondents. Data were analyzed using linear regression models to assess relationships between green coverage, air quality, and public health.
Findings: Historical data and simulations revealed a 60% reduction in Nagarestan Garden’s tree coverage from 2.28 ha in 1321 to 0.91 ha in 1378, with a partial recovery to 1.41 ha by 1404, leading to increased PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. Surveys indicated high public concern, with 84% of respondents linking reduced green spaces to adverse health impacts and 72% supporting garden restoration. Scenarios of 35% and 70% green coverage increases resulted in 24% and 38% reductions in PM2.5 concentrations and 18% and 27% reductions in mortality rates, respectively.
Conclusion: Each 10% increase in green coverage reduces mortality by 6%, validated by regression analyses and air quality data. These findings underscore the need to integrate environmental and public health policies in urban planning to restore historical green spaces and promote environmental justice.

 

Abstract Objectives: Informal settlements in recent decades, with a wide range of environmental deprivations, have been the cause of social harm in urban space and require a comprehensive approach to organize them. In recent years, the landscape approach has received attention due to its comprehensive perspective and explanation of new paradigms in defining the relationship between humans and the environment, with two characteristics of holistic and contextualism.Therefore,how to improve the quality of the environment of these settlements with this approach requires identifying effective solutions to respond to the environmental deprivations of these neighborhoods.
Methods: The methodology of the present article is qualitative, descriptive-analytical and based on library studies.The data are samples of organized informal settlements, where landscape measures related to the quality of their environment were analyzed qualitatively and descriptively with a comparative comparative approach, and the best solution to respond to these problems was stated.
Findings: This study, by examining and analyzing various methods of landscape interventions in several examples of successfully organized and empowered informal settlements, introduces the best examples and solutions as a model in informal settlement organization plans.
Conclusion: By examining the basic problems of each example and the measures expressed in response to them, it can be seen that the recreation of the landscape of informal settlements should be based on identifying local problems,utilizing local capacities, and developing context-based strategies. By identifying relevant environmental components and taking a holistic view of their environment and landscape, the most appropriate response to their problems can be given.

Abstract Objective: Rapid urbanization and city development in Iran—particularly in religious cities like Qom—have progressed with insufficient attention to facade design quality and the principles of Iranian-Islamic architecture. This has led to visual disharmony in the urban landscape. The present study aims to assess the current condition of urban facades in Qom and to propose strategies for restoring Iranian-Islamic identity within the cityscape.
Methodology: A mixed-methods approach (quantitative–qualitative) was employed, including literature review, analysis of national and local planning documents, and fieldwork consisting of direct observation and semi-structured interviews. Initially, indicators and components of Iranian-Islamic architecture were extracted from Quranic texts, religious narrations, and contemporary urban theories to create an evaluation framework. Behesht Boulevard was selected as a representative urban axis for case study analysis.
Findings: Field observations showed that most facades along this axis lack visual coherence, spatial hierarchy, privacy considerations, appropriate use of local materials, and geometrical patterns aligned with Islamic principles. Furthermore, planning document analysis revealed the absence of detailed implementation guidelines, leading to subjective interpretations and weak facade quality control.
Conclusion: This study addresses the gap between regulatory documents and the physical realities of urban development by introducing measurable facade design criteria based on Iranian-Islamic principles. Findings suggest that achieving a cohesive Islamic urban identity and enhancing public space quality in cities like Qom require the integration of theoretical foundations, practical guidelines, and a deep understanding of sociocultural contexts.
 

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effective components on promoting the sense of belonging to place with a focus on the market in the Narmak neighborhood of Tehran. The research method was applied in terms of purpose and causal method in terms of implementation and analysis. The research analysis was carried out using the regression comparison method. The information and data collection in this study was carried out using a closed-ended questionnaire (multiple options).
Method: The statistical population of the study included all Tehran citizens in 1403. Random sampling method was used to select the research sample. Accordingly, the sample size was 328 people (male and female, with an age range of 14 to 63 years). The areas studied included 1- the central side of the contemporary houses of Narmak neighborhood, 2- the northern side and 3- the western side of Narmak neighborhood.
Findings: Based on the results of the first hypothesis, considering the obtained significance level of 0.000 and the Pearson test, which is equal to 0.025, it can be stated that the appropriate design of the market center and equipping the market are effective in increasing the level of belonging and sense of identity of citizens, which is confirmed.
 

Abstract Abstract

Problem Statement: In contemporary urban contexts, city events are increasingly recognized as powerful tools in urban policy-making. However, their dual nature—as both drivers of development and catalysts for spatial inequality—necessitates deeper examination.
Research Objective: This study aims to analyze the structural and multidimensional impacts of urban events on public spaces and to propose a conceptual framework for understanding the reciprocal dynamics between events and urban spatial structure. It specifically addresses the central question: How can urban events simultaneously contribute to the regeneration of public spaces while exacerbating spatial inequalities?
Methodology: The research adopts a semi-systematic review approach, utilizing qualitative content analysis. The analytical framework integrates inferential and comparative methods to identify key patterns of event-driven spatial transformation.
Findings: Urban events influence five structural dimensions of public space through dual (positive and negative) effects:

Physical – urban renewal versus physical degradation;
Environmental – ecological pressures versus opportunities for sustainable management;
Socio-cultural – strengthening collective identity versus marginalization risks;
Economic – short-term economic growth versus unequal benefit distribution;
Governance – participatory opportunities versus risks of privatization.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the dual character of urban events as both enablers of development and intensifiers of spatial injustice. The proposed framework, with its comprehensive lens on five dimensions, offers an analytical tool for urban policymakers to harness events as levers for sustainable urban development. The study highlights the imperative for smart governance and integrated planning in event-oriented urban strategies.

Abstract Today,cities,along with many advantages,have complexities in all dimensions of urbanization,which make their management associated with problems.This issue shows the need to change the approach and pay attention to the smartening of urban centers.In recent years,various researches have been conducted about the smart city and strategies have been proposed in the field of smartening different cities.But due to the different context,different definitions of smart city have been presented.Aims:The current research seeks to reach a comprehensive and holistic view of the dimensions and factors of the smart city and explain the place of technology among them after examining the definitions of different experts.Method:To achieve this goal through the PRISMA method based on the four-step model,the research first started by searching for articles with the terms smart city,smart city index,smart city dimensions,smart city Features,smart city evaluation and technology in smart city in top citation databases such as Scopus,Web of Science,ScienceDirect,and GoogleScholar.In the initial search,334articles were identified until2023,of which50articles were selected for more detailed examination and answers to the research questions.Findings:Among the reviewed articles, the most frequently mentioned dimensions and features of the smart city are related to technological infrastructure,social quality,quality of life,environmental quality,governance,economy,and transportation,and sustainability,efficiency,integration,and global competitiveness are in the next rank.Conclusion:Smart city has the main dimensions of life,people,transportation,environment,economy and governance and the presence of technology as a meta dimension.Of course,technology should facilitate achieving stability,integration,efficiency and improving the quality of life of citizens,so that the harm caused by its excessive use can be minimized through controlled use.

Abstract Problem statement: The open spaces of residential complexes occupy part of the time and environment of the residents’ daily life, and improving the quality of these spaces can be effective in mental health, strengthening social interactions, vitality, etc. In this research, the factors affecting the improvement of the quality and effectiveness of the open spaces of residential complexes have been examined, and in this regard, using the descriptive-survey research method, some effective factors in improving the quality of these spaces that should be considered in the design of these complexes have been presented. Aims: The aim of this study is to investigate the effective components in improving the quality and effectiveness of open spaces in the Sepidar residential complex in Urmia.

Methods: Leveraging a descriptive-survey research methodology, this study delves into the identification and prioritization of critical factors that effectively contribute to the enhancement of the quality of open spaces in residential complexes. The research population encompasses the residents of the Sepidar residential complex in Urmia. To analyze the data gathered from 298 questionnaires, the study initially employed SPSS software. Subsequently, structural equations were analyzed using the second-order factor analysis method with AMOS software.

Findings: Based on the research findings, it is imperative to emphasize that the design of open spaces in residential complexes should be meticulously crafted to foster a sense of security among residents while simultaneously cultivating a profound sense of belonging to the community. The design should prioritize the creation of legible spaces adorned with verdant vegetation, complemented by appropriate lighting and furnishings. Additionally, the spaces should be adaptable to accommodate diverse uses and activities. Furthermore, these open spaces should serve as catalysts for fostering group participation, collaborative endeavors, and opportunities for meaningful social interactions.

Conclusion: Based on the results of the research, it can be said that the component of social interactions with a total effect of 0.924 has the greatest effect in creating effectiveness and improving the quality of the environment, followed by flexibility of space with 0.903, a sense of belonging to a place 0.864, and a sense of security 0.812, lighting and furniture 0.791, green space and vegetation 0.706 and legibility of space with 0.631 have been the most effective components in improving the quality of open spaces in residential complexes

Abstract Aims: Efficiency as a cultural index can be defined as the comfort resulting from the proper arrangement of components and the connection point between form and function; which plays an important role in adding quality to the space. Such an attitude to design; It is an attempt to obtain a model of valuable previous architecture to measure sustainability and discover the grammar of space in order to create works for the future of architecture.
Methods: The current research is a kind of documentary research, based on the use of data of valuable models of the past, which, by adopting a descriptive-analytical approach, analyzes the concept of efficiency in the structure of function and form in native Qajar houses of Isfahan.
Findings: Most of the massing has been done in the north (public spaces), west (service spaces), south (private spaces) and east (service spaces) fronts, respectively. Also, the data obtained from Ecotect software shows that the best direction in Isfahan city is between 17.5 degrees southwest and 22.5 degrees southeast. However, the frequency of Isfahan Orientation in the native Qajar houses of Isfahan is very low, and the emphasis is on the orientation in the north-south direction, and the southeast or southwest of it has not been given much attention.
Conclusion: The configuration of the space, the amount of received energy and the visual communication of the environment (sight) are among the indicators that affect the efficiency, which is understood by the way of massing, spatial relations and spatial proportions.

Abstract Objectives:

Urban public spaces, as platforms for social interactions, have significant transformed with the advent of digitalization and the expansion of social networks. These contribute to the formation of multidimensional representations and perceptions of urban spaces, by enabling the sharing of images, videos, and narratives about public spaces. The main challenge lies in addressing these rapid transformations. The purpose of this research is representation and analysis of urban public spaces transformation in social networks.

Methods:

Study was conducted using systematic review. The main question focuses on "what" and description and exploration. The data includes selected scientific articles from the Scopus (2014–2024), and thematic analysis was employed to identify the key components of transformation and representation in social networks.

Findings:

The findings clarify the link between public space transformation and social networks through the lenses of analysis type, data, scale, and typologies. Furthermore, the representation of urban public spaces in social networks is explained through 16 dimensions: enhancing sense of place, local community perception, spatial awareness, the success of spaces, highlighting everyday-life, participation and freedom of expression, reflecting urban events, visual aesthetics, rebranding spaces, diversity, environmental perception, changing mental imagery, presence experience, reinforcing collective memory, and social interactions.

Conclusion:

Social networks, by facilitating visual and textual representations, provide an opportunity to redefine transformations and create a new image of public spaces. User-generated data can assist urban designers in improving management of spaces. To fully exploit these capacities, it’s necessary to balance digital use and preserve the social characteristics of spaces.

Abstract
Aims:
The aim of the current research was to investigate the factor structure of the bio-aesthetic quality assessment questionnaire.

Methods:
The descriptive-correlation research method was based on confirmatory factor analysis. The statistical population of the research was the residents of residential areas in Khosroabad, Terechian, Aghehzaman and Sartpoule neighborhoods of Sanandaj city. Using available sampling method, 214 people were selected as a statistical sample.The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of four components of perceptual, cognitive, social and biological aesthetics and 13 criteria and 49 sub-criteria. Data analysis was performed using first-order and second-order confirmatory factor analysis, one-sample t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and Tukey's post hoc test.

Findings:
The findings showed the confirmation of the factorial structure of the bio-aesthetic quality questionnaire.The level of perception of bio-aesthetics in total and in terms of four dimensions was significantly higher than the average. A significant difference was observed between the perception of the sample of bio-aesthetics according to the residence history and residential environments

Conclusion:
According to the findings of the research, the construction and validity of such a tool can provide the basis for conducting wider and deeper studies in the field of bio-aesthetics and help to better understand this complex concept.

Abstract In today's urban design, it is crucial to consider the climatic conditions and thermal comfort of users in open spaces. The city's thermal conditions and microclimate significantly impact citizens' health and comfort, influencing their mental and physical performance. Women's usage of urban spaces differs from men's due to their heightened sensitivity to environmental conditions. Understanding the needs and conditions of women's presence in urban spaces is essential for sustainable design and construction. This research aims to compare the thermal comfort of women in Yazd's historical neighborhoods based on the PMV index. By employing a combined quantitative and qualitative approach and software analysis (Basic ENVI-met 5.6), the study compared the thermal comfort index (PMV) of women in these neighborhoods. The findings suggest that implementing suitable vegetation and shading with high crown density, creating sectional vegetation in various locations, using canvas materials on the floor and walls, and incorporating bright colors can make a highly favorable thermal comfort environment for pedestrians, even in the winter season.