Volume 14, Issue 1 (4-2026)
JRIA 2026, 14(1): 0-0 |
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hayati Z, aghaei S. (2026). Explaining the Levels and Characteristics of Inner Space in the Rock shrine Ghadamgah of Azarshahr. JRIA. 14(1),
URL: http://jria.iust.ac.ir/article-1-1855-en.html
URL: http://jria.iust.ac.ir/article-1-1855-en.html
1- Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract: (66 Views)
The concept of "inner space" (Daroon) as a fundamental quality in architecture of worship place plays a decisive role in shaping the experience of presence. However, today, this quality is often weakened due to the dominance of formal and functional aspects, necessitating a systematic and analytical redefinition. This research aimed to formulate an analytical framework for the concept of "inner space," examine its manifestation in the rock shrine Ghadamgah in Azarshahr, and conduct an analytical comparison with contemporary architecture of similar typologies. Employing a qualitative-interpretive method and a case study strategy at the mentioned site, the study sought to answer two primary questions: first, what are the orders, levels, and characteristics of the concept of inner space in architecture from the perspective of theorists; and second, how is the inner space defined in the architecture of the rock shrine Ghadamgah of Azarshahr. Data were collected through systematic field observations, physical documentation, and library studies, and were analyzed using an interpretive synthesis approach, with validity ensured through a triangulation strategy.
The findings reveal that "inner space" is a relational and generative phenomenon formed through the interaction between the human and the space in a three-level hierarchical process: (1) At the structural level, strategies such as enclosure, emphasis on mass, and symbolic lighting create a meaningful physical context. (2) This context enables patterns at the functional level, including movement guidance and focus on a center. (3) The user's interaction with these two layers leads to rich experiences at the semantic level, such as a sense of immersion and spiritual connection. The main achievement of the research is presenting a three-level analytical model of inner space. Applying this model as a critique criterion shows that the weakening of inner space quality in many contemporary of worship place typologies is primarily the result of an unbalanced attention and the excessive dominance of the structural level (visual grandeur and scale) at the cost of neglecting the actional and perceptual levels (privacy, stillness, and sense of belonging). From a practical perspective, this framework provides a design guide that emphasizes the necessity of creating a systemic balance between form, function, and experience.
The findings reveal that "inner space" is a relational and generative phenomenon formed through the interaction between the human and the space in a three-level hierarchical process: (1) At the structural level, strategies such as enclosure, emphasis on mass, and symbolic lighting create a meaningful physical context. (2) This context enables patterns at the functional level, including movement guidance and focus on a center. (3) The user's interaction with these two layers leads to rich experiences at the semantic level, such as a sense of immersion and spiritual connection. The main achievement of the research is presenting a three-level analytical model of inner space. Applying this model as a critique criterion shows that the weakening of inner space quality in many contemporary of worship place typologies is primarily the result of an unbalanced attention and the excessive dominance of the structural level (visual grandeur and scale) at the cost of neglecting the actional and perceptual levels (privacy, stillness, and sense of belonging). From a practical perspective, this framework provides a design guide that emphasizes the necessity of creating a systemic balance between form, function, and experience.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Subject- oriented researches in Islamic architecture and urbanism, eg. Spatial-geometrical ideas, symbols and ornaments
Received: 2025/09/22 | Accepted: 2026/01/20 | Published: 2026/05/16
Received: 2025/09/22 | Accepted: 2026/01/20 | Published: 2026/05/16
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