Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Ph.D. Candidate in Architecture, Art University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Art University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract
Quantitative assessment of cultural criteria in the architecture of contemporary cultural-artistic complexes is essential for enhancing spatial quality, strengthening identity, and social acceptance. This study aimed to identify, prioritize, and quantify the impact of five cultural criteria—aesthetic quality, proportions, architectural style, social acceptability, and cultural meaning and identity—on ten case studies in Tehran. The criteria were first extracted through a systematic literature review and validated in three Delphi rounds with the participation of 27 architecture and structural design experts. Then, the scores (1–10) of each criterion for each sample were analyzed using the weighted hierarchical analysis method and the causal relationships of the criteria were analyzed with DEMATL. The results showed that aesthetic quality has the highest weight (0.47), followed by cultural meaning and identity (0.30) and social acceptability (0.20); architectural style (0.09) and proportions (0.05) are complementary but effective. DEMATL analysis showed that aesthetic and meaning criteria, as the main effective variables, have a strong effect on other indicators (CI > 0.60).
Among the examples, the “City Theater” performed the best with an overall score of 9.05, indicating a successful balance between visual appeal, cultural connection, and social engagement. These findings confirm the necessity of integrating aesthetic and cultural identity criteria into design; a design that goes beyond structural function to also address social dynamics and the preservation of local heritage. The proposed data-driven and multi-criteria framework provides a practical model for architects and urban planners in culturally-sustainable design.
Keywords
)