The Impact of Architectural Ornamentation in the Grand Bazaar of Tehran on Pedestrian Movement and Dwell Time

The Grand Bazaar of Tehran provides a classic case study of a typical Iranian bazaar where the delineation of the interior architecture and ornamentation works plays a critical role in framing the design of the associated commercial and social activities. While many researchers have examined the spatio-structural design of traditional bazaars, relatively few have researched the specific role of building ornaments on the patterns and behaviors of the users in terms of their movements and the dwell behaviors. Aside from the theoretical approach, this research engaged in field study within particular sections of the Grand Bazaar of Tehran, involving behavioral observation, recording of pedestrian movement, documentation of dwell time, and photography of the architecture. The ornaments and different types of spaces were mapped to assess the movement and pause in those areas. The use of empirical data fortified the analysis and provided more evidence to support the explanation to the relationship of the interior ornaments and behaviors of the users. Using a descriptive-analytical method and the combined theories of Islamic architecture and environmental psychology, this paper attempts to identify the effects of geometric designs, brick, and tile works, and calligraphic designs on the movements of pedestrians and their behavioral pauses. The study finds that the presence, type, and arrangement of design elements psychologically impact the movement, dwell time, and perceived value of space. Therefore, the study believes and attempts to prove that the architectural decoration in the Grand Bazaar is an ornamented space that has a powerful influence on behavioral patterns.

کلیدواژه ها:

architectural ornament ، Grand Bazaar of Tehran ، pedestrian movement ، dwell behavior