Analysis of the Relationship between Biophilic Architecture and Social Interactions in the Fabric of Traditional Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Collective Life
1
Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz, Iran.
2
PhD Candidate in Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz, Iran.
10.48311/udd.2026.119325.82823
Abstract
Objective: Feyzabad neighborhood in Kermanshah, a Qajar-era historical fabric, exemplifies biophilic architecture and social interactions. This study analyzed their relationship and impact on collective life.
Method: A mixed quantitative-qualitative approach was applied. 200 residents completed a researcher-made questionnaire (15 items, Cronbach's alpha 0.83). Data were analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, t-tests, Pearson correlation, and factor loading. Qualitative interviews with 20 residents were analyzed using the Colaizzi method.
Findings: Biophilic components survived unevenly. "Direct nature presence" scored highest (mean 4.11), while "natural patterns in passages and courtyards" scored lowest (mean 2.97). Socially, "territoriality and belonging" ranked highest (72% positive), and "presence in semi-public spaces" lowest (62% negative). Pearson correlation showed biophilic architecture (0.89) and social interactions (0.83) have strong relationships with collective life. Both hypotheses were confirmed.
Conclusion: Despite dilapidation, Feyzabad holds potential for community-oriented regeneration through collective memory (factor loading 0.83) and natural elements. Biophilic architecture and social interactions have a mutually reinforcing relationship, with biophilic qualities being key to regenerating collective life in historical neighborhoods.
Toofan,S. and Shiroyeh Zad,B. (2026). Analysis of the Relationship between Biophilic Architecture and Social Interactions in the Fabric of Traditional Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Collective Life. (e28531). Urban Design Discourse, (), e28531 doi: 10.48311/udd.2026.119325.82823
MLA
Toofan,S. , and Shiroyeh Zad,B. . "Analysis of the Relationship between Biophilic Architecture and Social Interactions in the Fabric of Traditional Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Collective Life" .e28531 , Urban Design Discourse, , , 2026, e28531. doi: 10.48311/udd.2026.119325.82823
HARVARD
Toofan S., Shiroyeh Zad B. (2026). 'Analysis of the Relationship between Biophilic Architecture and Social Interactions in the Fabric of Traditional Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Collective Life', Urban Design Discourse, (), e28531. doi: 10.48311/udd.2026.119325.82823
CHICAGO
S. Toofan and B. Shiroyeh Zad, "Analysis of the Relationship between Biophilic Architecture and Social Interactions in the Fabric of Traditional Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Collective Life," Urban Design Discourse, (2026): e28531, doi: 10.48311/udd.2026.119325.82823
VANCOUVER
Toofan S., Shiroyeh Zad B. Analysis of the Relationship between Biophilic Architecture and Social Interactions in the Fabric of Traditional Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Collective Life. Urban Design Discourse, 2026; (): e28531. doi: 10.48311/udd.2026.119325.82823
