An analysis of structural aesthetics in architecture case study: Taj-Ol-Molk Dome, Jāmeh Mosque of Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

The role of structure has been always considered essential in understanding the architecture. In the historical buildings of Iran, the function of structural elements follows the general form of the building. In this study, the modern structural analysis of historical building aimed at discovering the deep knowledge of experienced and skilled constructors in their works, developing the modern structural theories, and establishing modern solutions for strengthening of structural elements. Taj-Ol-Molk Dome was used as the case study that it is entitled to "the most beautiful dome". In this study, the qualitative and interpretive method was used to explore the role of aesthetics in Iranian domes. In the structural analysis based on structural simulation, the total displacement was less than 0.0002 at the maximum mode. In addition, the Von-Mises stress at the joint bearing surfaces was 2.3 × 10 6-3.5 × 10 6 which was less than the yield stress of the materials. Based on Mohr-Coulomb theory, the entire structure is below the standard risk level. A variety of brickwork styles were used based on mathematical calculations to reduce applied forces to the building. The form of Taj-Ol-Molk Dome is completely in harmony with the catenary curve form. The structural patterns lead to the bearing stress as completely compressive and without tensile and bending stress. Based on the findings, the golden ratio in the façade of building coordinated the cross section and dome-span. Finally, the structural features of the dome and the principles of structural aesthetic vision of the building are explained.

Analytical examination of dynamic elements in modern architectural facades for advanced structural aesthetics

“…They act as a surface, akin to a layered canvas, which serves as a bridge between the interior and exterior of a building. The study confirmed that classical architectural facades were characterized by a rich abundance of intricate details and distinctive elements (Sadeqi et al, 2019), (Morvan and Thibert, 2002), (Chatzikonstantinou and Sariyildiz, 2017), (Riccobono, 2014).These facades employed symmetry and balance to distribute forces in accordance with the mathematical principles governing gravity. In the context of Gothic architecture, facades took on a sculptural form, featuring walls crafted from carved stone, sculptures, and embellishments around openings.…”

“…In the context of deconstructivism architecture, facades underwent a transformation to embody the ideology of breaking free from traditional constraints. This led to the creation of facades with multiple layers (Sadeqi et al, 2019), (Radić et al, 2010), (Soycan and Soycan, 2019). These facades were fragmented, concealed, fragmented, incomplete, and featured Technological advances in structural solutions and new materials (Two International Finance Centre).…”

“…2-Modern advancements in technology have enabled the creation of facades that adhere to various principles and regulations, resulting in a diverse range of traditional designs. These depart from the typical box-like shape and introduce various sensory elements that contribute to both stability and formal balance (Sadeqi et al, 2019), (Kasperski, 2022). 3-Architectural facades are contingent upon several factors, including their condition, the choice of building materials, ornamental details, surface characteristics, their orientation, as well as the interplay of opposing or overlapping connections between these facades.…”

“…3-Architectural facades are contingent upon several factors, including their condition, the choice of building materials, ornamental details, surface characteristics, their orientation, as well as the interplay of opposing or overlapping connections between these facades. These elements, and the changes that occur on them, serve to channel the forces, and loads downwards in accordance with the laws of gravity, with implications for their influence on structural stability and equilibrium (Sadeqi et al, 2019), (Soycan and Soycan, 2019), (Sayed and Fikry, 2019), (Sharma and Mishra, 2021), (Kasperski, 2022), (Adeeb Fahmy Hanna, 2020). Structural Morphogenesis.…”

“…This departure introduces morphological variations and various sensory elements that contribute to both stability and formal balance. The design of building facades is influenced by the real climate and conveys various ideas, elements, and meanings (High-rise, 2014), (Sadeqi et al, 2019), (Morvan and Thibert, 2002).…”