Recognition an‎d analysis of native Mazan‎daran architectural elements with the aim of providing architectural solutions for water resource management an‎d utilization in contemporary housing

7/21/2026 12:00:00 AM

Mazan‎daran province, contrary to the common perception of abundant water resources, is facing severe droughts due to climate change. Urbanization an‎d the increase of impervious surfaces in the province have had dire consequences on the environment an‎d water resources, including pollution an‎d increased surface runoff. Therefore, there is a growing need to rethink housing architecture design with the aim of managing an‎d optimally utilizing water resources, especially rainwater. This research seeks to provide solutions for the optimal management an‎d utilization of water resources in contemporary housing. The specific objectives include identifying indigenous methods an‎d techniques for water management, identifying up-to-date patterns for the optimal use of water in residential architectural design, an‎d providing practical strategies for rainwater harvesting in todayʹs housing in Mazan‎daran. This study is a practical-analytical research using a mixed-methods approach. In the qualitative section, the Delphi method was used for validation an‎d prioritization of variables by experts, along with structured interviews. In the quantitative section, documentary, field, an‎d technical studies were conducted, including analysis of the urban water cycle, runoff calculation, an‎d rainwater harvesting potential in three sub-climates (plain, foothill, an‎d mountainous) of Mazan‎daran province. Finally, the NSGA-II multi-objective optimization algorithm was used to achieve an optimal water management model, an‎d brainstorming was employed to formulate architectural regulations. The findings showed that 11 physical architectural components, including "dimensions an‎d size, roof area, site dimensions, executive details, an‎d roof slope," have the most significant impact on water management in Mazan‎daran housing. The potential for rainwater harvesting in the plain regions of the province is significantly higher due to the size of rooftops an‎d rainfall levels. Public participation an‎d physical compatibility with indigenous architecture in rural areas were eva‎luated as high, but management capacities were below average, which presents a significant challenge for the development of these systems. The NSGA-II algorithm showed significant improvement in the indices of water collection potential (CAI: 13.04%), reduction of technical-operational costs (MOT: 21.06%), an‎d social compatibility (PSC: 3.2%). The integration of indigenous approaches with modern technologies provides a comprehensive model for sustainable water management in Mazan‎daranʹs housing architecture. Architectural strategies include selec‎ting the appropriate roof type (sloped/combined), designing the building form for maximum utilization of catchment surfaces, using durable an‎d cost-effective materials, intelligently designing the site to direct surface water, optimally locating water storage tanks, an‎d creating effective spatial connections. This model provides a practical framework for designers, builders, an‎d urban planners to develop sustainable housing that is compatible with the regionʹs climatic

مديريت آب، معماري بومي، مازندران، استحصال آب باران، مدل‌سازي بهينه

Water management, vernacular architecture, Mazandaran, rainwater harvesting, optimal modeling

Hossein Salarian

Gholamhossein Memarian - Asghar Mohammad Moradi