The Impact of Climate on Sustainable and Vernacular Architecture: A Case Study of El Goli Garden, Tabriz

kokab dehgan shirvanedeh¹

1) PhD student in architecture, Azad University of Ahar

IOI Code : ABGG-ACZHAZ
Publication : 11th.International Conference on Researches in Science & Engineering & 8th.International Congress on Civil, Architecture and Urbanism in Asia(11icrsie.ir)
Abstract :
    Abstract: Climate is a primary determinant of vernacular architecture and a fundamental component in achieving sustainable architecture. Throughout history, vernacular architecture has utilized empirical knowledge and an understanding of environmental conditions to devise strategies tailored to the specific climatic characteristics of each region. Sustainable architecture shares many principles with vernacular architecture, emphasizing reduced energy consumption, the optimal use of natural resources, enhanced thermal comfort, and a minimized environmental footprint. Due to its location in a region characterized by cold winters, relatively warm summers, and significant annual temperature fluctuations, the city of Tabriz serves as an ideal case study for examining the interplay between climate, vernacular architecture, and sustainability. As a prominent historical and cultural landmark, the El-Goli Garden in Tabriz possesses characteristics that allow for the study of relationships between natural elements—such as water and vegetation—spatial organization, and climatic conditions. This research aims to investigate the role of climatic factors in the formation and environmental performance of the El-Goli Garden and to analyze its connection to sustainable architecture principles and vernacular architectural patterns. The study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology based on documentary and library research, alongside an examination of the case study s physical and environmental attributes. The findings indicate that the strategic use of water, vegetation, spatial orientation, shading, and natural elements can effectively moderate microclimatic conditions and improve environmental comfort. Furthermore, the experience of Tabriz’s vernacular architecture demonstrates that climatic adaptation can simultaneously reduce reliance on mechanical systems and enhance environmental quality. Climate is a primary factor influencing the formation of architecture and the spatial organization of human settlements. Throughout history, vernacular architecture has emerged from the direct interaction between humans and the natural environment; many of its characteristics—such as building orientation, the arrangement of open and enclosed spaces, the use of local materials, solar exposure, shading strategies, and the integration of water and vegetation—were developed to achieve environmental comfort. In contemporary architecture, the concept of sustainable architecture has emerged, emphasizing energy reduction, the rational use of natural resources, the mitigation of environmental impacts, and the enhancement of living quality. From this perspective, studying vernacular architecture offers valuable insights into passive, low-energy strategies for sustainable design. Research on traditional houses in Tabriz reveals that features such as compact forms, central courtyards, optimal orientation, solar utilization, and climate-responsive materials were key strategies in the city s traditional architecture. Traces of vernacular architecture remain visible even in the modern era. Rooted in the local climate and surrounding nature, vernacular architecture fosters urban sustainability while providing comfort and tranquility for occupants; it creates a distinct built form using specific materials, with introversion serving as one of its defining elements. Climatic characteristics and weather conditions are among the most significant factors influencing construction across all times and places, playing a pivotal role in shaping vernacular architecture; consequently, both climate-responsive design and vernacular architecture have become focal points within the realm of sustainable architecture. The present study examines the relationship between climate, vernacular architecture, and sustainable architecture, using the El-Goli Garden in Tabriz as a case study.

Keywords : climate sustainable architecture vernacular architecture climatic factors tabriz el goli garden