Extracting the design principles of contemporary roadside service complexes using the architectural model of historical Iranian caravanserais

Abstract

 Iranian roadside caravanserais, as one of the most prominent examples of Iranian-Islamic architecture, have consistently played a pivotal role in the development of trade, travel security, and cultural exchanges throughout Iran's history (Basouli & Derakhsh, 2021). This article, employing a comparative case study approach, analyzes the architectural patterns of nine prominent Iranian roadside caravanserais (Basouli & Derakhsh, 2021). The selected caravanserais, identified using the Delphi method (with the participation of 15 Iranian architecture specialists), are: Qasr-e Bahram, Shah Abbasi of Neyshabur, Aminabad of Isfahan, Zein-o-din, Tajabad of Hamedan, Shah Abbasi of Meybod, Robat-e Sharaf, Deir-e Gachin (the "mother" of Iranian caravanserais), and Titi (Siahkal, Gilan). Drawing on authoritative scientific-research sources and archaeological documents, this study first examines the theoretical foundations of caravanserais, their historical background, their types based on geographical location, and their architectural patterns (Ayvazian, 2000). Subsequently, the physical characteristics and spatial patterns of each of these nine caravanserais are subjected to a comparative analysis (Farshchi & Hajizamani, 2019). In the final section of the research, based on the findings derived from the analysis of the caravanserais, the design principles for a model of roadside service complexes with a climate-responsive and identity-oriented approach are presented. The research results indicate that although the four-iwan plan with a central courtyard represents the dominant pattern of Iranian roadside caravanserais (over 65% of the studied caravanserais), significant diversity is observed in their layouts (two-iwan, circular, octagonal) and construction materials, depending on climatic conditions, geographical location, and historical period (Hosseini & Naghizadeh, 2016). This research demonstrates that the architectural patterns of Iran's historical caravanserais can serve as a basis for designing contemporary roadside service complexes and can help resolve the climatic, functional, and identity-related issues of these spaces.