The application of open building principles in popular residential buildings in Iran

Abstract

Recently large numbers of housing units have been built in Iran; however, the lack of compliance with the changing needs of different users is regarded as the main problem. The "open building" approach allows the units to be tailored to the needs and lifestyles of the users, which are flexible and adaptable. The present study aimed to investigate the possibility of using the open building approach in popular residential complexes in Gonad-e-Kavoos in north of Iran. In this study, by using the descriptive method, 40 popular residential plans were evaluated by inviting 20 designers and developers based on semi-structured interviews were examined. Based on the results, in the field of structures and facilities, there are a few limitations on the application of open building, but there are many problems related to the open unit internal separators during the process of designing and implementation. In this regard, some suggestions were recommended for these separators based on the current situation. Further, there are many capabilities and limitations in the popular designs by which design suggestions were suggested such as location and suitable proximity to fixed and open building spaces, optimal design and spatial organisation, which makes it possible to benefit from open buildings by using these items by designers.