Objective: A significant portion of historical architectural heritage and cultural assets is concentrated in rural areas, where rural life is deeply intertwined with indigenous architecture. Indigenous architecture in rural settlements stands as a testament to the architectural legacy and rich cultural heritage of the region. However, amid contemporary transformations of rural structures, indigenous architecture has received diminishing attention. Therefore, understanding indigenous architecture provides a foundation for addressing the cultural, social, and economic needs of these valuable settlements, while also facilitating the transmission of architectural knowledge and cultural experiences to other regions. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate the dimensions and components of indigenous architecture in rural settlements, exemplified by the case study of Qale Bala Village in Shahrood.
Method: This study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology and is applied in nature. Initially, relevant literature and documentary sources were reviewed to identify the dimensions and components of indigenous architecture. Based on the findings from content analysis, a theoretical framework was developed. Subsequently, field investigations were conducted using an analytical approach to examine the manifestation of these components in the case study of Qale Bala Village, Shahrood.
Results: The findings indicate that the economic-livelihood, socio-cultural, and environmental-climatic dimensions play significant roles in shaping indigenous architecture in rural settlements. In the economic-livelihood dimension, key components include functional efficiency, livelihood type, income level, and the nature of construction materials. The socio-cultural dimension is influenced by factors such as security and tranquility, social interactions and relationships, sense of belonging, and cultural values and norms. Within the environmental-physical dimension, important components include spatial and physical structure, environmental comfort and climatic compatibility, as well as spatial and functional flexibility.
Conclusions: The dimensions and components of indigenous architecture in rural settlements are interdependent and mutually influential. Furthermore, the built environment and housing in Qale Bala Village, Shahrood, are shaped by these components and their associated indicators. The architecture of Qale Bala Village exemplifies indigenous architecture that harmonizes with the local climate, culture, and rural lifestyle.