Classification and functional roots of the geometric patterns in the ornaments of traditional houses in Dezful based on vikor method

Abstract

Geometry is one of the most important elements in iranian architecture. Geometry is used in planning, drawing and decorating. Among outstanding components were ornaments used in many parts of houses. The realisation of ornaments in Iranian architecture is dependent on geometry, with geometry also generating variety in ornamental decorations. The ornaments used in the architecture of Dezful is usually made of bricks, and can be found in several parts of a building as secondary surfaces with astonishing diversity. The aim of this study is the documentation of geometric patterns and their underlying generative context in Dezful houses, answering research questions on the way. The research method is a combination of field studies and historical-interpretive methods, with data collected through library studies and personal observations. The data analysis method is based on Vikor method which opens a new scope on ornaments studies. Case studies are based on relevant traditional façades selected through data analyses based on Vikor and Entropy methods. The paper concludes that ornaments are diverse, and on top of their beauty, they have functions such as providing comfort for passers, increasing area in upper floors, ventilation, shading and thereby shielding against heat, protecting “Xowun”s from rain, and creating hierarchies. In order to assess ornaments, the paper suggests, one can use the type of the ornament, its ratio, proportions, connections and layouts, as criteria.

Keywords

• geometry
• function
• ornament
• house
• dezful