Vernacular Architecture and Its Impact on Urban Identity (A Case Study: Sabzeh Meydan Street, Qazvin)
Document Type : ُScientific
10.22034/csum.2026.243682
Abstract
Vernacular architecture, as a clear reflection of the history, culture, and natural environment of each society, plays a fundamental role in shaping the identity of cities. In fact, vernacular architecture is the non-verbal language of a nation through which values, beliefs, and ways of life can be understood. However, the expansion of modern architectural patterns and the tendency toward global styles have caused many contemporary cities to drift away from their native originality, resulting in a kind of uniformity and loss of identity. Towers and similar structures built in many cities around the world, although functionally up-to-date, often fail to reflect the cultural and historical roots of society.
Understanding urban identity and its influential components is a fundamental step for managers, planners, and urban policymakers. Only through such understanding can a city be created that not only reflects cultural and social values but also possesses identity-related qualities, sustainability, and responsiveness to the needs of its residents. In this regard, the attention of managers and architects to vernacular principles is of great importance, as it can prevent the neglect of urban identity during the process of urban development.
The research method of this study is qualitative with an interpretive approach, and data collection is based on documentary analysis. This paper first examines the characteristics and key elements of vernacular architecture—such as adaptation to climate, the use of local materials, and consideration of social culture—and then analyzes the consequences of its presence or absence in shaping urban identity. The findings indicate that revisiting and applying the principles of vernacular architecture can not only strengthen cultural identity and enhance citizens’ sense of belonging, but also provide the basis for creating sustainable and distinctive urban spaces. Moreover, the thoughtful integration of vernacular architecture with modern technologies makes it possible to achieve designs that are both aesthetically appealing and functionally responsive to today’s needs. Ultimately, it can be concluded that paying attention to vernacular architecture as a cultural asset is essential, and neglecting it may lead to the weakening of urban identity and a decline in the quality of urban life.
Understanding urban identity and its influential components is a fundamental step for managers, planners, and urban policymakers. Only through such understanding can a city be created that not only reflects cultural and social values but also possesses identity-related qualities, sustainability, and responsiveness to the needs of its residents. In this regard, the attention of managers and architects to vernacular principles is of great importance, as it can prevent the neglect of urban identity during the process of urban development.
The research method of this study is qualitative with an interpretive approach, and data collection is based on documentary analysis. This paper first examines the characteristics and key elements of vernacular architecture—such as adaptation to climate, the use of local materials, and consideration of social culture—and then analyzes the consequences of its presence or absence in shaping urban identity. The findings indicate that revisiting and applying the principles of vernacular architecture can not only strengthen cultural identity and enhance citizens’ sense of belonging, but also provide the basis for creating sustainable and distinctive urban spaces. Moreover, the thoughtful integration of vernacular architecture with modern technologies makes it possible to achieve designs that are both aesthetically appealing and functionally responsive to today’s needs. Ultimately, it can be concluded that paying attention to vernacular architecture as a cultural asset is essential, and neglecting it may lead to the weakening of urban identity and a decline in the quality of urban life.
Keywords
