The Role of Traditional Courtyard Houses in Iran and Mesopotamia in Sustainable Urban Development

The built environment significantly impacts global energy consumption and environmental sustainability. Due to houses being an essential part of the built environment, the study of residential architecture becomes critical for creating a sustainable living environment. Courtyard houses have been a traditional form of residential architecture in Iran and Mesopotamia for centuries, demonstrating effective adaptation to climatic conditions. This paper explores the key features of these houses and their role in enhancing thermal comfort, and social interaction. By analyzing architectural elements such as the windcatcher, Iwan, Sardab (basement), and the strategic orientation of spaces, this study highlights how these features contributed to creating a favorable microclimate while respecting the sociocultural needs of the inhabitants. The findings suggest that integrating similar passive design strategies in modern housing could provide sustainable solutions to contemporary environmental challenges. Additionally, the cultural and social aspects of courtyard houses, including the balance between privacy and hospitality, offer valuable insights for fostering community cohesion in urban development. The paper concludes that the enduring legacy of courtyard houses offers a timeless framework for designing flexible, human-centered spaces and that the features of courtyard houses can inspire sustainable housing development in the future.

کلیدواژه ها:

Courtyard Houses ، Sustainability ، Urban Development ، Iran ، Mesopotamia