SlideShare ist ein Scribd-Unternehmen logo
1 von 14
Downloaden Sie, um offline zu lesen
2012 American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences




                                   American Transactions on
                                 Engineering & Applied Sciences

                   http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS,                  http://Get.to/Research




                             Contribution of Historical Persian Gardens for
                             Sustainable Urban and Environment Lessons
                             from Hot Arid Region of Iran
                                                  a*                       a
                             Raheleh ROSTAMI           , Hasanuddin LAMIT , and
                                                         b
                             Seyed Mysam Khoshnava
a
  Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia, MALAYSIA
b
  Department of Construction Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia, MALAYSIA

ARTICLEINFO                        ABSTRACT
Article history:                           Sustainable development is a widely accepted strategic
Received April 20, 2012
Received in revised form           framework in city planning and urban green spaces have an important
July 03, 2012                      role in it. Beside, increasing empirical evidence indicates that the
Accepted July 24, 2012             presence of natural areas contributes to the quality of life in many
Available online July 25, 2012
                                   ways.      Also, urban nature provides important social and
Keywords:                          psychological benefits to human societies, which enrich human life
Sustainable Architect;             with meanings and emotions. In order to exemplify the importance of
Hot arid regions;                  urban green spaces for sustainability this paper analyses some
Historical Persian gardens;        historical Persian gardens for environmental sustainability and
Sustainable environment.           citizens’ well-being. In this study, historical Persian Gardens were
                                   chosen due to their historical background as first sample of Iranian
                                   urban green spaces which are still being used successfully. Some
                                   results of a survey conducted among visitors of historical gardens in
                                   Iran are presented and discussed. The issues investigated people’s
                                   motives for visiting gardens and the emotional dimension involved in
                                   the experience of nature and its importance for people’s general
                                   well-being.
                                       2012 American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences.


*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                         281
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
1. Introduction 
    Theory of sustainable architecture and urbanism is one of the contentious fields of
architecture. The idea of sustainable architecture is offered to answer the questions about quality
and types of relationship between design and environment. Sustainable architecture is a responsive
and active design toward environment and place features and conditions. Sustainable architecture
uses its ecological capabilities to create a suitable and desirable environmental condition. It
includes a mixture of aesthetic, environmental, political, social and moral values. Some studies on
the subject indicate that the concept of sustainability has a root in old customs and traditional
cultures of mankind. Therefore, traditional architecture are recognized for considering cultural and
social identities and help a great deal in creating social, environmental and economical
sustainability. So, traditional aspects were considered in sustainable design philosophy.


    Furthermore, sustainability is also a widely accepted strategic framework in city planning and
urban green spaces have an important role in it and considered as one possible step towards
creating sustainable urban environments (Costanza et al., 1997; Jongman et al., 2004; Opdam et al,
2006; Jongman, 1995; Zhang and Wang, 2006). Also, open green spaces are of a strategic
importance for the quality of life of our increasingly urbanized society (Miller, 1988; Chiesura,
2004). In fact, increasing empirical evidence indicates that the presence of natural resources (i.e.
urban parks, gardens and forests, green belts) and components (i.e. trees, water) in urban contexts
contributes to the quality of life in many ways.       Protective factors of nature for physical,
psychological, and social health of people and community have been emphasized by various
researches (Takano et al, 2002; St Leger, 2003; Maller et al, 2005). Physically and psychologically,
view of natural scenes or elements foster stress recovery (Ulrich, 1981) by evoking positive
feelings, reducing negative emotions, and blocking stressful thoughts and provide a sense of
peacefulness and tranquility (Kaplan, 1983) and resulted in mental (Hartig et al., 1991; Conway,
2000) and physical health (Godbey et al., 1992). Therefore, local people consider urban nature and
daily outdoor recreation opportunities to be the main factors that enhance their every day
well-being (Eronene et al., 1997) even if used occasionally (Solecki &Welch,1995; Thompson
2002; Tinsley and Croskeys 2002; Chiesura 2004; Krenichyn 2004). Socially, nature can
encourage the use of outdoor spaces, increase social integration and interaction among neighbors
(Coley et al., 1997) which lead to trust, mutual understanding, shared values and supportive

    282          Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
behavior (Loures et al., 2007). So, natural areas provide social, psychological and physical
services, which enrich human life with meanings and emotions which are of crucial significance
for the livability of modern cities and the well-being of urban dwellers which is a key component of
sustainable city.


    Besides the aforementioned, the functions of urban nature can provide economic benefits for
both municipalities and citizens. Air purification by trees, for example, can lead to reduced costs of
pollution reduction and water purification, wind and noise filtration can lead to microclimate
stabilization. Furthermore, aesthetic, historical and recreational values of urban green spaces
increase the attractiveness of the city and promote it as tourist destination, thus generating
employment and revenues (Chiesura, 2004).


    In order to exemplify the importance of urban green spaces for wellbeing of citizens and for
the sustainability of the city where they live in, this paper analyses some historical Persian gardens.
In this study, historical Persian Gardens were chosen due to their historical background as first
sample of Iranian urban green spaces which are still being used successfully. Beside, historical
Persian gardens are one of the well-known traditional methods in hot arid regions of Iran which
play a role in works of beauty and aesthetic as well as compensating poor humidity to create a
sustainable micro climate for human living.


2. Making Cities Sustainable 
    Nowadays, increasing in population, urbanization and the impact of urban areas on global
environment mean that creating more sustainable urban areas is essential to sustainability
(Ozdemir, 2007). Now, the question is: what is a sustainable city and how we can make a
sustainable city?


    Whereas, there is no acceptable definition for sustainable city; therefore, the concept of
sustainable development which includes aspects of urban planning and community development is
considered for cities sustainability. According to Bruntland commission (The World Commission

*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                       283
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
on Environment and Development, 1987) sustainable development meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’’. Also, Sibley
(1998) stated that sustainability refers to “the continuing ability of the planet to meet the needs of
its living inhabitants”. So, some cities have been developing their own sustainability indicators and
aspects such as “amount of public green spaces per inhabitant”, “public parks” and “recreation
areas” which are often mentioned as important factors to make the city livable, pleasant and
attractive for its citizens (Chiesura, 2004). But, from another point of view, developing more
sustainable cities is not just about improving the abiotic and biotic aspects of urban life, it is also
about the social aspects of city life, that is about people’s satisfaction, experiences and perceptions
of the quality of their everyday environments and quality of life issues are central to all.


    To reach these goals, it is essential to follow all dimensions of sustainable development
(environmental, social and economic). According to principles which were presented in The
European Landscape Convention in Florence, 2000; to achieve sustainability, development should
be “based on a balanced and harmonious relationship between social needs, economic activities
and the environment”. Researchers (Beck, 1992; Sachs, 1995, Ferris et al, 2001; Loureset et al,
2007) claimed that urban landscape can be very positively linked to sustainability policies.
Thompson (2000) indicates that sustainable development seems to offer “landscape architects a
tangible way of relating their aesthetic, social and ecological values”. Urban green spaces benefits
urban communities environmentally, aesthetically, recreationally, psychologically, socially and
economically (Grahn, P., 1985; Burgess, J., Harrison, C., Limb, M.,1988; Conway, H., 2000; Gehl,
J., Gemzoe, L, 2001). Once more, urban green spaces are considered as key components in urban
sustainability.


3. Material and Method 
    Both, secondary (literature review) and primary data collection have been gathered. Primary
data have been collected through a survey conducted among residents of two historical cities of
Iran where, a lot of historical Persian gardens still exist and being used actively by urban residents.
To find the most popular and memorable garden among the existing samples, a pilot test was
undertaken based on residents’ preferences. The pilot test concluded Hasht Behesht Garden or/
Bagh-e- Bolbol (literally: Eight Paradise Garden or/ Nightingle Garden) which dating back to
    284           Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
1660, in Isfahan city and Shahzdeh Garden (literally: Prince garden), which is created in 18th
century, in Kerman as the most frequented.


    Respondents were randomly selected among visitors of gardens from various age groups.
Also, personal attributes like gender, occupation, and educational background were considered.
Respondents were asked to fill the questionnaire during their stay in the gardens, so the answers
would reflect their immediate experiences. Questionnaires were distributed on weekdays and
weekends, in different hours of the day, and in different parts of the gardens. Responses formats
were either closed (multiple choices) and open ended. The questionnaires addressed a broad range
of issues, ranging from motives for respondents to visit gardens, their activities during visit periods
and their feelings towards the gardens. Both descriptive and inferential techniques have been used
to analyze and interpret the answers.


4. Results 
    In total, 252 respondents took part in both cities. Sample includes 152 respondents (60.31%) in
Esfahan and 100 respondents (39.68%) in Kerman. In total, male gender constitute prevalent
respondents (57.5%). Age classes ranged from below 10 years old to over 60 and prevalent by
20-30 age groups (48.0%). Most of the respondents had university degree and categorized as
student in occupation. The mean of living period in cities is about 23 years (S.D = 16.16).

4.1 Motives for Visiting Gardens 
    To calculate the data about people’s motives to visit the gardens, respondents were asked:
“Why do you visit this garden?” The following alternative options were given: I visit this garden
because of its nature and vegetation, its diversity, its beauty, it’s fascinating, its restorativeness
effect, its accessibility, its silence, its familiarity, its representativeness and others. A frequency
analysis of people’s motives to visit gardens showed that gardens nature and vegetation achieved
highest percentage (54.4%) among other options (Fig. 1). This motive reflects the need of natural
environment in urban context.




*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                       285
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
I'm familiar with it     8.3%
                     It’s a meeting place             11.9%
        A sense of attachment to place                        17.5%
                                     Its silence              17.5%
     It is a representative place of city                      18.3%
                         Its visual diversity                 18.3%
                            Its accessibility                          24.2%
                                Its open view                          24.6%
               Its restorativeness effect                                 27.4%
                             It's Fascinating                              29%
                                     Its Beauty                                   42.9%
                                    Its Nature                                             54.4%


                 Figure 1: Motivations of gardens for visitors: Frequency distribution.

    Beauty of gardens stands out as second most effective factor for 42.9% of respondents. This
motive revealed the relation of aesthetic attributes and people’s preferences and emphasized the
effect of aesthetic on preferences like other researches (See: Nasar, 1983; Lothian, 1999;
Kaltenborn & Bjerk, 2002; Parsons & Daniel, 2002; Hidalgo, Berto, Galindo, and Getren, 2006).


    So, gardens became fascinating for 29% of the respondents. Also, aesthetic attributes can
affect place’s restorativeness (Kaplan and Kaplan, 1989; Kaplan, 1995; Hernandez, Hidalgo,
Berto, and Peron, 2001; Staats, Kieviet, and Hartig, 2003; Koole, Vnder, and Wulp, 2003; Galindo
and Hidalgo, 2005) which was mentioned by almost 28% of respondents. Restorativeness effects
of gardens can create a place for relaxation and step away from daily worries, breath fresh air and
relax mentally and physically.


    Garden’s open view and easy accessibility were cited by almost 24% of respondents. Findings
also, indicates that 18.3% of respondents visit garden because of its visual diversity and because it
is a representative place of the city. 62.7% of respondents mentioned that these gardens are historic
and represent a symbol for their cities. Hence, sense of attachment to these gardens was identified
by 17.5% of respondents. Sense of attachment to a place result in a sense of belonging to towns and
society and consequently enhance society’s health status. Silence of gardens, meeting people and
familiarity option follow in decreasing frequency. Motives like garden’s silence and consideration
of garden as meeting place reflect needs of experiencing solitude, as well as social relation and
integration.
    286               Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
4.2 Functional Aspects of the Gardens 
    Another aspect of gardens is how gardens are to be used by residents. To understand the
functions of gardens in urban area, respondents were asked: “What is your experience and activity
during visitation of garden?” The following alternative options were given: I come to visit this
garden for recreation, for sitting alone, for wandering and walking, for family picnic, to be with
others, to do exercise, to observe nature and to be part of nature. A frequency analysis of people’s
activity in gardens revealed that the most important experience which is considered by respondents
is recreation. 49.6% of respondents visit gardens for recreation (Fig. 2). This result denotes the
psychological effects of nature which evoke calm and relaxation as well as stress reduction.
Subsequently, this confirms why 40% of respondents considered natural observation as second
most important experience of garden. Also, 27.8% of respondents mentioned that visiting gardens
is like being a part of nature. This result reflects again the importance of nature.



           For walking      4%
        To do exercise           7.5%
            For sitting                       17%
     To be with others                              22.2%
      For family picnic                                 25.4%
    To observe nature                                       27.8%
       For Recreation                                                                  49.6%


                          Figure 2: Experiences and activities in garden.


    Family picnic (25.4%) and to be with others (22.2%) constitute another important aspects of
garden’s function. These functions reveal the social aspects of gardens which encourage people to
use urban green spaces as part of their daily life style and to be with others. Subsequently, increase
social interaction and integration invoke trust and supportive behaviors. Other activities like
sitting, exercising and walking follow in decreasing frequency and less considered by respondents.

4.3 The Emotional Dimension of Gardens’ Experience 
    Another important research interest was to explore the emotional dimension of nature based

*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                         287
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
experiences, the benefits people perceive through natural contact and the relationship with their
well-being. To explore emotional aspects of garden, respondents were asked to answer the
following question: “What feelings do gardens evoke you?” and the following alternative options
were given: safety, freedom, comfortable, happiness, calm and tranquility, memories
remembrance, feeling healthier, feeling that you are closer to nature and feeling that you are
different. Frequency analysis of the answers about the feelings experienced (Fig. 3) shows that
“calm and tranquility” is the feeling most frequently cited by respondents, which accounts for 50%
of the answers. The tranquil atmosphere of the garden inspires reflection, meditation, and a general
feeling of harmony between one self and the surrounding. Also, it is assumed that feelings and
emotions we perceive in natural environment are relevant part of our experiences in nature. So,
integration of results of first important experience in gardens (recreation) and current finding verify
the assumption. Memories remembrance is another emotional aspects which was considered by
42.8% of respondents.



        Feel I am different       2%
                  Freedom                       14.7%
                     Safety                      15.5%
             Feel healthier                           19.4%
               Comfortable                               21.8%
          Closer to nature                                            33.7%
                 Happiness                                              35.3%
   Memories remembrance                                                         42.8%
      Calm and tranquility                                                                   50%

                              0         10         20            30       40            50         60


                              Figure 3: Feelings and emotional experiences.


    Happiness is another feeling that gardens evoke for respondents, accounting almost 35% of the
answers. Also, 33.7% of respondents mentioned feeling closer to nature. Therefore, it can be
proven that there is a relationship between nature and positive feelings like happiness as well as
comfortable (21.8%) and feeling healthier (19.4%). Feeling safe and freedom follow in decreasing
frequency. Feeling “I am different in this garden” was less considered by respondents (2%).



    288           Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
4.4 Garden Visitation and Well­being 
    For better understanding about the importance of natural experience for people’s well-being,
respondents were asked to rank the importance of visiting gardens for emotional and physical
disease like: depression, sadness, tiredness and sickness along a 1–5 points measurement scale (1,
not important at all; 2, not important; 3, important; 4, very important; 5, essential). A frequency
analysis showed that responses range from important to essential. Respondents believed that
visiting gardens could mostly reduce depression (94%) as well as removing tiredness, accounting
almost 90% of answers. Also, results show that sadness (81.6%) and physical sickness (76.3%)
could be better during and after garden visitations. Overall, findings revealed nature effects on
betterment of both emotional and physical disease, widely emotional ones.


                    Table 1: Variables that Affect People Presence in the Gardens.
   Variables           Very Much        Much            Less          Very Less      Not Effective

   Organization          37.9%           6.7%           6.7%            0.0%             3.0%

   Representative        37.9%           6.3%           6.5%            1.3%             2.4%

   Accessibility         27.2%          12.5%           10.1%           0.0%            4.5%

   Familiarity           27.2%          17.2%           8.4%            0.2%            1.3%

   Symbolism             28.2%          14.4%           6.0%            1.1%             4.3%

   Emotion               14.2%          14.7%           1.1%            0.9%             1.9%

   Activity              13.4%           5.4%           6.5%            2.4%             5.2%

   Memories              7.8%            8.6%           7.3%            3.4%             6.6%

   Naturalness           17.9%           6.5%           3.9%            0.6%             3.9%


    At the end, to articulate aspects of historical Persian garden that could affect people’s
presence, respondents were asked to rank the importance of the following features for people
presence. Features include: garden’s organization, accessibility, familiarity, activity, naturalness,
emotion and memory of respondents about gardens, garden’s representativeness and symbolisms.
Findings indicate that all features ranged as essential one with different frequency (See Table 1).
Garden’s organizations as well as representativeness are considered as most important features that
could affect people presence for almost 37.9% of respondents. Symbolism identified as second
*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                      289
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
most important feature that affect 28% of people who visit these gardens. Most of respondents
mentioned that people visit this garden because these gardens are historic. Accessibility and
familiarity achieved a same value (27.2%) for people presence in gardens. Emotional and physical
(activity) aspects of gardens follow in decreasing frequency, accounting around ¼ of the answers.
Respondent’s garden related memories identified as the last factor that could affect people
presence in gardens (7.8%).


5. Discussions and Recommendations 
    The information emerged from the survey indicates that historical Persian gardens fulfils
important residents’ needs in urban context. Obtained results are according to previous researches
regarding people’s need to experience nature (Kaplan and Kaplan, 1989). People visit gardens
primarily because they want to relax. Recreation is as an important need fulfilled in Persian
gardens (49.6%). Residents considered gardens as recreational area which is mentioned in
Chiesura (2004) research and important factors to make the city livable, pleasant and attractive for
its citizens and this is why ¼ of respondents carry out social activities like being with others and
family picnic in these gardens. Social activities that happened in these gardens signify Coley et al
(1997) results that nature can encourage the use of outdoor spaces and increase social integration
and interaction among neighbors which lead to trust, mutual understanding, shared values and
supportive behavior (Loures et al., 2007). Therefore from the social point of view, historical
Persian gardens considered by residents as urban nature and daily outdoor recreation opportunities
are the main factors that Eronene et al (1997) believed could enhance every day well-being.


    Furthermore, findings show that the experience of nature in the city is a source of a large array
of positive feelings to people. Calm and tranquility is the most important feeling that residents
experience in historical Persian gardens. Besides, feeling happiness, comfortable, safety, freedom
and even healthier were frequently mentioned by respondents. Results confirmed psychological
health effects of nature on positive moods like pleasure which were indicated by Ulrich (1982) as
well as reduction of negative effects like anger and anxiety (Rohde and Kendle, 1994) which evoke
calmness and tranquility and provide restorative environments that can help strengthen the
activities of the right hemisphere of the brain and restore harmony to functions on the brain as a
whole (Furnas, 1979). In other words, people who have access to nearby natural settings were
    290          Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
found to be healthier overall than other individuals (Kaplan, 1989). And, all these emotional and
psychological benefits contribute critically to the quality of human life, which in turn is a key
component of sustainable development (Chiesura, 2004). This is why respondents ranged the
importance of visiting gardens for emotional and physical disease as important and even as
essential factors. Most of the respondents believed that during and after gardens’ visitation,
depression and tiredness decreased and even sadness and physical disease could be lessened.


6. Conclusion 
    In the context of this study, the role of historical Persian gardens as provider of social services
and their importance for city sustainability has been addressed. Some results have been presented
of a survey aimed at exploring the motives and perceptions of visitors of two well-known samples
of historical Persian gardens. Some conclusive remarks can be made.


    First of all, historical Persian gardens as natural urban area fulfill many social functions and
psychological needs of citizens, which make these gardens a valuable municipal resource, and a
key ingredient for city sustainability.


    Secondly, attributes of the physical environment interact with various human characteristics,
such as socio demographics and people’s perceptions of the environment could affect physical
activities and this in turn influences health outcomes. So, links among environmental attributes,
physical activity, body weight, and health can result in environmental compatibility and sense of
attachment to a place which result on the quality of life and well-being.


    Therefore, valuation of the various amenities, social and psychological services of urban areas
should be integrated into project assessments’ procedure and be properly accounted for in policy
decisions and urban planning strategies as well as user’s satisfactions, needs and their
representation and participation in all aspects of urban life which are critical components in a
sustainable city.



*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                       291
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
7. References 
Beck, U. (1992). Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity. London, Sage

Burgess, J., Harrison, C.M., Limb, M., 1988. People, parks and the urban green: A study of popular
      meanings and values for open spaces in the city. Urban Study 25: 455–473.Clark, E.
      (2004). The Art of Persian Garden. Crowood Press.

Chiesura, A. 2004. The role of urban parks for the sustainable city. Landscape and Urban planning
       68: 129-138

Coley, R., Kuo, F., Sullivan, W., 1997. Where does community grow? The social context created
       by nature in urban public housing. Environment and Beahvior 29:468-494

Conway, H. 2000. Parks and people: The social functions.

Costanza, R., d’Arge, R., de Groot, R, Farber, S., Grasso, M., Hannon, B., Laskin, R., Sutton, P.and
       Van den belt, M. 1997. The value of the world’s ecosystem services and natural capital.
       Nature 387: 253-260

Ferris, J., C. Norman, J. Sempik (2001). People, land and sustainability: Community gardens and
        the social dimension of sustainable development. Social and Administration 35 (5):
        559-568

Eronene, S., Nurmi, J. E., and Aro, K. S. (1997). Planning-Oriented, Avoidant, and Impulsive
      Social Reaction Styles: A Person-Oriented Approach. Journal of Research in Personality,
      31, 34–57.

Gehl, J., Gemzoe, L. 2001. New City Spaces. Copenhagen: Danish Architectural Press.

Grahn, P. 1985. Man’s needs for Urban parks, Greenery and Recreation. Institute for landscape
       planning, Swedish Agricultural university , Alnarp.

Godbey, G., Grafe, A., James, W., 1992. The Benefits of Local Recreation and Park Services. A
      Nationwide Study of Perceptions of the American Public. College of Health and Human
      development, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania

Hartig, T., Mang, M., Evans, G., 1991. Restorative effects of natural environments experiences.
        Environmental Behavior 23: 3-26.

Jongman, R.H.G., 1995. Nature conservation in Europe: Developing ecological networks.
      Landscape Urban Plann, 32:169-183

Jongman, R.H.G., M. Kulvik and I.Kristiansen, 2004. Eopean ecological networks and greenways.
      Landscape Urban Planning, 68: 05-319

Lothian, A. 1999. Landscape and the Philosophy of Aesthetic: Is landscape Quality Inherent in the
       Landscape or in the Eye of Beholder. Landscape and urban planning: 177-198

    292          Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
Hidalgo, M. C., Berto, R., Galindo, M. P., Getrevi, A. (2006). Identifying Attractive and
       Unattractive Urban Places: Categories, Restorativeness and Aesthetic Attributes. Medio
       Ambiente y Comportamiento Humano7(2): 115-133.

Kaplan, S. 1983. A Model of Person-Environment Compatibility. Environment and Behavior, 15,
      311-332

Kaplan, R., and Kaplan, S. (1989). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective. New
       York: Cambridge University Press.
Kaplan, S. 1995. The Restorative Benefits of Nature: Toward an Integrative Framework.
      Environmental Psychology 15: 169 – 182.

Krenichyn, K. (2004). "Women and Physical Activity in an Urban Park: Enrichment and Support
       through an Ethic of Care. Environmental Psychology 24: 117-130.

Loures, L., Santos, R., and Panagopoulos, T. (2007). Urban Parks and Sustainable City
       Planning-the Case of Portimão, Portugal. WSEAS Transactions on Environment and
       Development, 3(10), 171–180.
Maller, C., Townsend, M., Pryor, A., Brown, P., and St Leger, L. 2005. Healthy nature healthy
       people: ‘contact with nature’ as an upstream health promotion intervention for populations.
       Health Promotion International, 21 (1), 45-54.
Miller, R.W. 1988. Urban Forestry: Planning and Managing Urban Green Spaces. Prentice-Hall,
        Englewood Cliffs, NJ.

Nasar, J. L. 1983. Adult Viewer's Preferences in Residential Scenes: A Study of the Relationship of
        Environmental Attributes to Preference. Environment and Behavior 32: 357-363

Opdam, P., E. Steingrover and S. Van Rooji. 2006. Ecological networks: Aspatial concept for
     multi-actor planning of sutainable lndscapes. Landscape Urban Plann 75: 322-324

Ozdemir, A. 2007. Urban sustainability and open space networks. Applied sciences 7(23):
     3713-3720

Sachs, A. 1995. Eco-Justice: linking human rights and the environment. World-watch Paper 127.
       Washington DC.

Sibley, P. 1998. The Sustainable Management of Green Space, ILAM.

Solecki, W.D., Welch, J.M., 1995. Urban parks: green spaces or green walls? Landscape Urban
       Plan. 32, 93–106.


*Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address:
raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com.       2012. American Transactions on Engineering &
Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online                    293
Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
St Leger, L. (2003). Health and Nature-New Challenges for Health Promotion. Health Promotion
       International, 18, 3, 173-175.
Takano, T., Nakamura, K. and Watanabe, M. 2002. Urban residential environments and senior
       citizens‘ longevity in mega-city areas: the importance of walkable green space. J.
       Epidemiol. Commun. Health 56, 12, 913–916.
Thompson, I. H. 2000. Ecology, Community and Delight—Sources of Values in Landscape
       Architecture. London: E and F.N. Spon.
Thompson, C. W. 2002. Urban open space in the 21st century. Landscape and urban plan 60: 59-72

Tinsley, H. E. A. and C. E. Croskeys 2002. "Park Usage, Social Milieu, and Psychosocial Benefits
       of Parks Use Reported by Older Urban Park Users from Four Ethnic Groups.” Leisure
       Science 24:199-218

Ulrich, R.S. 1981. Natural versus urban sciences: Some psycho-physiological effects.
       Environmental and Behavior 13: 523-556

Zhang, L and H. Wang., 2006. Planning and ecological network of Xiamen Island (China) using
       landscape metrics and network analysis. Landscape Urban Plan, 78 (4): 449-456

             Raheleh Rostami received her MSc in Architecture in 2006 from Islamic Azad University of
             Kerman. Currently she is a PhD Candidate in Landscape Architecture in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
             Her current research interests are landscape design and its history and philosophy, people's
             perceptions and behaviors with regard to urban landscapes and integration of public perceptions
             and values in planning and management of urban open spaces.

             Dr.Hasanuddin Lamit received his PhD in Architecture from Sheffield University, United Kingdom.
             Currently, he is an Associated Professor in the Faculty of Built Environment Universiti Teknologi
             Malaysia. His current research interests are urban design and history / philosophy of landscape
             architecture.


             Seyed Meysam Khoshnava is currently a master student in Construction Management in Universiti
             Teknologi Malaysia. His current research interests are Green and Sustainability, and application of
             softwares such as BIM, Autodesk Ecotech, and Auto desk Green Studio.




Peer Review: This article has been internationally peer-reviewed and accepted for publication
             according to the guidelines given at the journal’s website. Note: This article
             was accepted and presented at the 2nd International Conference-Workshop on
             Sustainable Architecture and Urban Design (ICWSAUD) organized by School of
             Housing, Building & Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia from
             March 3rd -5th, 2012.




    294          Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava

Weitere ähnliche Inhalte

Was ist angesagt?

Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...
Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...
Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs
 
Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...
Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...
Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs
 
Urbanecology and environmental planning
Urbanecology and environmental planningUrbanecology and environmental planning
Urbanecology and environmental planningSamanth kumar
 
Multidisciplinary nature of enviroment
Multidisciplinary nature of enviromentMultidisciplinary nature of enviroment
Multidisciplinary nature of enviromentShaikh Sabina Meraj
 
Climate change and architectural practice in nigeria
Climate change and architectural practice in nigeriaClimate change and architectural practice in nigeria
Climate change and architectural practice in nigeriaAlexander Decker
 
Sustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_Irena
Sustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_IrenaSustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_Irena
Sustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_IrenaIrena Itova
 
Lecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studies
Lecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studiesLecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studies
Lecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studiesSomanath Sarvade
 
The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources
The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources
The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources Maitry Agrawal
 
E nviroment science 1a.ppt
E nviroment science 1a.pptE nviroment science 1a.ppt
E nviroment science 1a.pptKumar
 
Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...
Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...
Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...Dania Abdel-aziz
 
Unit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aap
Unit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aapUnit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aap
Unit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aapAnilaAP
 
Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment
 Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment
Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built EnvironmentJIT KUMAR GUPTA
 
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: Introduction
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: IntroductionENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: Introduction
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: IntroductionBasudeba Behera
 
Scope and aspect of environmental resource management
Scope and aspect of environmental resource managementScope and aspect of environmental resource management
Scope and aspect of environmental resource managementAl Jubaer
 
Introduction to environmental science and disaster management
Introduction to environmental science and disaster managementIntroduction to environmental science and disaster management
Introduction to environmental science and disaster managementShaidurRahman8
 

Was ist angesagt? (19)

Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...
Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...
Understanding Aesthetic Experiences of Architectural Students in Vertical and...
 
Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...
Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...
Evaluation of Aesthetic, Functional, and Environmental Effects on the Design ...
 
Urbanecology and environmental planning
Urbanecology and environmental planningUrbanecology and environmental planning
Urbanecology and environmental planning
 
Multidisciplinary nature of enviroment
Multidisciplinary nature of enviromentMultidisciplinary nature of enviroment
Multidisciplinary nature of enviroment
 
Ugc20syllabus
Ugc20syllabusUgc20syllabus
Ugc20syllabus
 
Climate change and architectural practice in nigeria
Climate change and architectural practice in nigeriaClimate change and architectural practice in nigeria
Climate change and architectural practice in nigeria
 
Sustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_Irena
Sustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_IrenaSustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_Irena
Sustainability in Architecture and Urban Design_Irena
 
Lecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studies
Lecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studiesLecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studies
Lecture 1ppt Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental studies
 
The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources
The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources
The multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies and natural resources
 
E nviroment science 1a.ppt
E nviroment science 1a.pptE nviroment science 1a.ppt
E nviroment science 1a.ppt
 
Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...
Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...
Urban biodiversity and social inequalities in built up cities new evidences, ...
 
Unit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aap
Unit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aapUnit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aap
Unit 1.EVS.FY.B.Com.aap
 
Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment
 Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment
Promoting Affordability Through Sustainable Built Environment
 
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: Introduction
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: IntroductionENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: Introduction
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES: Chapter 1: Introduction
 
Scope and aspect of environmental resource management
Scope and aspect of environmental resource managementScope and aspect of environmental resource management
Scope and aspect of environmental resource management
 
Unit i intrdtn to env
Unit i intrdtn to envUnit i intrdtn to env
Unit i intrdtn to env
 
Introduction to environmental science and disaster management
Introduction to environmental science and disaster managementIntroduction to environmental science and disaster management
Introduction to environmental science and disaster management
 
Introduction
IntroductionIntroduction
Introduction
 
Environmental studies
Environmental studiesEnvironmental studies
Environmental studies
 

Ähnlich wie Contribution of Historical Persian Gardens for Sustainable Urban and Environment Lessons from Hot Arid Region of Iran

Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...
Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...
Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...AJHSSR Journal
 
Thesis design i synopsis touseef
Thesis design i synopsis touseefThesis design i synopsis touseef
Thesis design i synopsis touseefIrfan Ullah
 
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs
 
A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...
A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...
A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...Nathan Mathis
 
ecocity elements sangeeta
ecocity elements sangeetaecocity elements sangeeta
ecocity elements sangeetaSangeeta Singh
 
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...IEREK Press
 
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...IEREK Press
 
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs
 
Towards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational park
Towards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational parkTowards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational park
Towards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational parkAlexander Decker
 
The challenges of sustainable development and
The challenges of sustainable development andThe challenges of sustainable development and
The challenges of sustainable development andshaham asadi
 
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
ThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopmentThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopmentmuditdua3
 
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
ThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopmentThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopmentmuditdua3
 
1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf
1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf
1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdfHoshyar Rasul
 
K030102074084
K030102074084K030102074084
K030102074084theijes
 
A REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
A REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIESA REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
A REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIESRichard Hogue
 
Microsoft Word International Seminar On Theorizi
Microsoft Word   International Seminar On TheoriziMicrosoft Word   International Seminar On Theorizi
Microsoft Word International Seminar On TheoriziEdge Hill University
 
DhanapalUrbanClimate.pdf
DhanapalUrbanClimate.pdfDhanapalUrbanClimate.pdf
DhanapalUrbanClimate.pdfAnkit1922
 

Ähnlich wie Contribution of Historical Persian Gardens for Sustainable Urban and Environment Lessons from Hot Arid Region of Iran (20)

Green Infrastructure as Network of Social Spaces for Health and Well-Being
Green Infrastructure as Network of Social Spaces for Health and Well-BeingGreen Infrastructure as Network of Social Spaces for Health and Well-Being
Green Infrastructure as Network of Social Spaces for Health and Well-Being
 
Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...
Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...
Investigation and evaluation of the role of urban regeneration in the vitalit...
 
Landscape Architecture Greening the areas with respect to neighbourhood planning
Landscape Architecture Greening the areas with respect to neighbourhood planningLandscape Architecture Greening the areas with respect to neighbourhood planning
Landscape Architecture Greening the areas with respect to neighbourhood planning
 
Thesis design i synopsis touseef
Thesis design i synopsis touseefThesis design i synopsis touseef
Thesis design i synopsis touseef
 
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
 
A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...
A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...
A Case Study Of Sustainable Urban Planning Principles In Curitiba (Brazil) An...
 
ecocity elements sangeeta
ecocity elements sangeetaecocity elements sangeeta
ecocity elements sangeeta
 
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
 
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
Sustainable Park Landscaping as an Approach for theDevelopment of the Built E...
 
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
Sustainability in Historic Urban Environments: Effect of gentrification in th...
 
Towards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational park
Towards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational parkTowards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational park
Towards a liveable and sustainable urban recreational park
 
The challenges of sustainable development and
The challenges of sustainable development andThe challenges of sustainable development and
The challenges of sustainable development and
 
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
ThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopmentThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
 
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
ThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopmentThearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
Thearchitectsresponsibilitiesinachievingsustainableenvironmentaldevelopment
 
1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf
1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf
1-s2.0-S1877042815048302-main.pdf
 
Mohammad mir 28 dec
Mohammad mir 28 decMohammad mir 28 dec
Mohammad mir 28 dec
 
K030102074084
K030102074084K030102074084
K030102074084
 
A REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
A REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIESA REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
A REVIEW ON CRITERIA FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TO BE ADOPTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
 
Microsoft Word International Seminar On Theorizi
Microsoft Word   International Seminar On TheoriziMicrosoft Word   International Seminar On Theorizi
Microsoft Word International Seminar On Theorizi
 
DhanapalUrbanClimate.pdf
DhanapalUrbanClimate.pdfDhanapalUrbanClimate.pdf
DhanapalUrbanClimate.pdf
 

Mehr von drboon

11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles
11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles
11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articlesdrboon
 
11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles
11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles
11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articlesdrboon
 
11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers
11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers 11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers
11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers drboon
 
11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articlesdrboon
 
11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles 11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles drboon
 
11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES
11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES
11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLESdrboon
 
11(2)2020 International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...
11(2)2020  International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...11(2)2020  International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...
11(2)2020 International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...drboon
 
V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...
V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...
V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...drboon
 
The Streets in a Livable City
The Streets in a Livable CityThe Streets in a Livable City
The Streets in a Livable Citydrboon
 
Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...
Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...
Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...drboon
 
Enhancement of Space Environment Via Healing Garden
Enhancement of Space Environment Via Healing GardenEnhancement of Space Environment Via Healing Garden
Enhancement of Space Environment Via Healing Gardendrboon
 
Design of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical Shell
Design of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical ShellDesign of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical Shell
Design of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical Shelldrboon
 
Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...
Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...
Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...drboon
 
Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...
Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...
Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...drboon
 
Effect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In Vitro
Effect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In VitroEffect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In Vitro
Effect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In Vitrodrboon
 
Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...
Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...
Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...drboon
 
Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...
Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...
Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...drboon
 
ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...drboon
 
ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...drboon
 
Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...
Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...
Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...drboon
 

Mehr von drboon (20)

11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles
11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles
11(7) 2020 ITJEMAST's published research articles
 
11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles
11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles
11(6) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Articles
 
11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers
11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers 11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers
11(5) 2020 ITJEMAST Research Papers
 
11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(4) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
 
11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles 11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
11(3) 2020 ITJEMAST Multidisciplinary Research Articles
 
11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES
11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES
11(1)2020 ITJEMAST RESEARCH ARTICLES
 
11(2)2020 International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...
11(2)2020  International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...11(2)2020  International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...
11(2)2020 International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Ap...
 
V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...
V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...
V8(3) 2017:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & ...
 
The Streets in a Livable City
The Streets in a Livable CityThe Streets in a Livable City
The Streets in a Livable City
 
Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...
Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...
Impact of Building Envelope Modification on Energy Performance of High-Rise A...
 
Enhancement of Space Environment Via Healing Garden
Enhancement of Space Environment Via Healing GardenEnhancement of Space Environment Via Healing Garden
Enhancement of Space Environment Via Healing Garden
 
Design of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical Shell
Design of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical ShellDesign of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical Shell
Design of Quadruped Walking Robot with Spherical Shell
 
Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...
Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...
Motion Analysis of Pitch Rotation Mechanism for Posture Control of Butterfly-...
 
Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...
Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...
Analysis of Roll Rotation Mechanism of a Butterfly for Development of a Small...
 
Effect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In Vitro
Effect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In VitroEffect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In Vitro
Effect of Oryzalin on Growth of Anthurium andraeanum In Vitro
 
Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...
Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...
Role of 2,4-D on Callus Induction and Shoot Formation to Increase Number of S...
 
Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...
Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...
Seismic Capacity Comparisons of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Between Standar...
 
ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(2): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
 
ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
ITJEMAST5(1): Latest Research from International Transaction Journal of Engin...
 
Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...
Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...
Effect of Exchangeable Cations on Bentonite Swelling Characteristics of Geosy...
 

Contribution of Historical Persian Gardens for Sustainable Urban and Environment Lessons from Hot Arid Region of Iran

  • 1. 2012 American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS, http://Get.to/Research Contribution of Historical Persian Gardens for Sustainable Urban and Environment Lessons from Hot Arid Region of Iran a* a Raheleh ROSTAMI , Hasanuddin LAMIT , and b Seyed Mysam Khoshnava a Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, MALAYSIA b Department of Construction Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, MALAYSIA ARTICLEINFO ABSTRACT Article history: Sustainable development is a widely accepted strategic Received April 20, 2012 Received in revised form framework in city planning and urban green spaces have an important July 03, 2012 role in it. Beside, increasing empirical evidence indicates that the Accepted July 24, 2012 presence of natural areas contributes to the quality of life in many Available online July 25, 2012 ways. Also, urban nature provides important social and Keywords: psychological benefits to human societies, which enrich human life Sustainable Architect; with meanings and emotions. In order to exemplify the importance of Hot arid regions; urban green spaces for sustainability this paper analyses some Historical Persian gardens; historical Persian gardens for environmental sustainability and Sustainable environment. citizens’ well-being. In this study, historical Persian Gardens were chosen due to their historical background as first sample of Iranian urban green spaces which are still being used successfully. Some results of a survey conducted among visitors of historical gardens in Iran are presented and discussed. The issues investigated people’s motives for visiting gardens and the emotional dimension involved in the experience of nature and its importance for people’s general well-being. 2012 American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 281 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 2. 1. Introduction  Theory of sustainable architecture and urbanism is one of the contentious fields of architecture. The idea of sustainable architecture is offered to answer the questions about quality and types of relationship between design and environment. Sustainable architecture is a responsive and active design toward environment and place features and conditions. Sustainable architecture uses its ecological capabilities to create a suitable and desirable environmental condition. It includes a mixture of aesthetic, environmental, political, social and moral values. Some studies on the subject indicate that the concept of sustainability has a root in old customs and traditional cultures of mankind. Therefore, traditional architecture are recognized for considering cultural and social identities and help a great deal in creating social, environmental and economical sustainability. So, traditional aspects were considered in sustainable design philosophy. Furthermore, sustainability is also a widely accepted strategic framework in city planning and urban green spaces have an important role in it and considered as one possible step towards creating sustainable urban environments (Costanza et al., 1997; Jongman et al., 2004; Opdam et al, 2006; Jongman, 1995; Zhang and Wang, 2006). Also, open green spaces are of a strategic importance for the quality of life of our increasingly urbanized society (Miller, 1988; Chiesura, 2004). In fact, increasing empirical evidence indicates that the presence of natural resources (i.e. urban parks, gardens and forests, green belts) and components (i.e. trees, water) in urban contexts contributes to the quality of life in many ways. Protective factors of nature for physical, psychological, and social health of people and community have been emphasized by various researches (Takano et al, 2002; St Leger, 2003; Maller et al, 2005). Physically and psychologically, view of natural scenes or elements foster stress recovery (Ulrich, 1981) by evoking positive feelings, reducing negative emotions, and blocking stressful thoughts and provide a sense of peacefulness and tranquility (Kaplan, 1983) and resulted in mental (Hartig et al., 1991; Conway, 2000) and physical health (Godbey et al., 1992). Therefore, local people consider urban nature and daily outdoor recreation opportunities to be the main factors that enhance their every day well-being (Eronene et al., 1997) even if used occasionally (Solecki &Welch,1995; Thompson 2002; Tinsley and Croskeys 2002; Chiesura 2004; Krenichyn 2004). Socially, nature can encourage the use of outdoor spaces, increase social integration and interaction among neighbors (Coley et al., 1997) which lead to trust, mutual understanding, shared values and supportive 282 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
  • 3. behavior (Loures et al., 2007). So, natural areas provide social, psychological and physical services, which enrich human life with meanings and emotions which are of crucial significance for the livability of modern cities and the well-being of urban dwellers which is a key component of sustainable city. Besides the aforementioned, the functions of urban nature can provide economic benefits for both municipalities and citizens. Air purification by trees, for example, can lead to reduced costs of pollution reduction and water purification, wind and noise filtration can lead to microclimate stabilization. Furthermore, aesthetic, historical and recreational values of urban green spaces increase the attractiveness of the city and promote it as tourist destination, thus generating employment and revenues (Chiesura, 2004). In order to exemplify the importance of urban green spaces for wellbeing of citizens and for the sustainability of the city where they live in, this paper analyses some historical Persian gardens. In this study, historical Persian Gardens were chosen due to their historical background as first sample of Iranian urban green spaces which are still being used successfully. Beside, historical Persian gardens are one of the well-known traditional methods in hot arid regions of Iran which play a role in works of beauty and aesthetic as well as compensating poor humidity to create a sustainable micro climate for human living. 2. Making Cities Sustainable  Nowadays, increasing in population, urbanization and the impact of urban areas on global environment mean that creating more sustainable urban areas is essential to sustainability (Ozdemir, 2007). Now, the question is: what is a sustainable city and how we can make a sustainable city? Whereas, there is no acceptable definition for sustainable city; therefore, the concept of sustainable development which includes aspects of urban planning and community development is considered for cities sustainability. According to Bruntland commission (The World Commission *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 283 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 4. on Environment and Development, 1987) sustainable development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’’. Also, Sibley (1998) stated that sustainability refers to “the continuing ability of the planet to meet the needs of its living inhabitants”. So, some cities have been developing their own sustainability indicators and aspects such as “amount of public green spaces per inhabitant”, “public parks” and “recreation areas” which are often mentioned as important factors to make the city livable, pleasant and attractive for its citizens (Chiesura, 2004). But, from another point of view, developing more sustainable cities is not just about improving the abiotic and biotic aspects of urban life, it is also about the social aspects of city life, that is about people’s satisfaction, experiences and perceptions of the quality of their everyday environments and quality of life issues are central to all. To reach these goals, it is essential to follow all dimensions of sustainable development (environmental, social and economic). According to principles which were presented in The European Landscape Convention in Florence, 2000; to achieve sustainability, development should be “based on a balanced and harmonious relationship between social needs, economic activities and the environment”. Researchers (Beck, 1992; Sachs, 1995, Ferris et al, 2001; Loureset et al, 2007) claimed that urban landscape can be very positively linked to sustainability policies. Thompson (2000) indicates that sustainable development seems to offer “landscape architects a tangible way of relating their aesthetic, social and ecological values”. Urban green spaces benefits urban communities environmentally, aesthetically, recreationally, psychologically, socially and economically (Grahn, P., 1985; Burgess, J., Harrison, C., Limb, M.,1988; Conway, H., 2000; Gehl, J., Gemzoe, L, 2001). Once more, urban green spaces are considered as key components in urban sustainability. 3. Material and Method  Both, secondary (literature review) and primary data collection have been gathered. Primary data have been collected through a survey conducted among residents of two historical cities of Iran where, a lot of historical Persian gardens still exist and being used actively by urban residents. To find the most popular and memorable garden among the existing samples, a pilot test was undertaken based on residents’ preferences. The pilot test concluded Hasht Behesht Garden or/ Bagh-e- Bolbol (literally: Eight Paradise Garden or/ Nightingle Garden) which dating back to 284 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
  • 5. 1660, in Isfahan city and Shahzdeh Garden (literally: Prince garden), which is created in 18th century, in Kerman as the most frequented. Respondents were randomly selected among visitors of gardens from various age groups. Also, personal attributes like gender, occupation, and educational background were considered. Respondents were asked to fill the questionnaire during their stay in the gardens, so the answers would reflect their immediate experiences. Questionnaires were distributed on weekdays and weekends, in different hours of the day, and in different parts of the gardens. Responses formats were either closed (multiple choices) and open ended. The questionnaires addressed a broad range of issues, ranging from motives for respondents to visit gardens, their activities during visit periods and their feelings towards the gardens. Both descriptive and inferential techniques have been used to analyze and interpret the answers. 4. Results  In total, 252 respondents took part in both cities. Sample includes 152 respondents (60.31%) in Esfahan and 100 respondents (39.68%) in Kerman. In total, male gender constitute prevalent respondents (57.5%). Age classes ranged from below 10 years old to over 60 and prevalent by 20-30 age groups (48.0%). Most of the respondents had university degree and categorized as student in occupation. The mean of living period in cities is about 23 years (S.D = 16.16). 4.1 Motives for Visiting Gardens  To calculate the data about people’s motives to visit the gardens, respondents were asked: “Why do you visit this garden?” The following alternative options were given: I visit this garden because of its nature and vegetation, its diversity, its beauty, it’s fascinating, its restorativeness effect, its accessibility, its silence, its familiarity, its representativeness and others. A frequency analysis of people’s motives to visit gardens showed that gardens nature and vegetation achieved highest percentage (54.4%) among other options (Fig. 1). This motive reflects the need of natural environment in urban context. *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 285 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 6. I'm familiar with it 8.3% It’s a meeting place 11.9% A sense of attachment to place 17.5% Its silence 17.5% It is a representative place of city 18.3% Its visual diversity 18.3% Its accessibility 24.2% Its open view 24.6% Its restorativeness effect 27.4% It's Fascinating 29% Its Beauty 42.9% Its Nature 54.4% Figure 1: Motivations of gardens for visitors: Frequency distribution. Beauty of gardens stands out as second most effective factor for 42.9% of respondents. This motive revealed the relation of aesthetic attributes and people’s preferences and emphasized the effect of aesthetic on preferences like other researches (See: Nasar, 1983; Lothian, 1999; Kaltenborn & Bjerk, 2002; Parsons & Daniel, 2002; Hidalgo, Berto, Galindo, and Getren, 2006). So, gardens became fascinating for 29% of the respondents. Also, aesthetic attributes can affect place’s restorativeness (Kaplan and Kaplan, 1989; Kaplan, 1995; Hernandez, Hidalgo, Berto, and Peron, 2001; Staats, Kieviet, and Hartig, 2003; Koole, Vnder, and Wulp, 2003; Galindo and Hidalgo, 2005) which was mentioned by almost 28% of respondents. Restorativeness effects of gardens can create a place for relaxation and step away from daily worries, breath fresh air and relax mentally and physically. Garden’s open view and easy accessibility were cited by almost 24% of respondents. Findings also, indicates that 18.3% of respondents visit garden because of its visual diversity and because it is a representative place of the city. 62.7% of respondents mentioned that these gardens are historic and represent a symbol for their cities. Hence, sense of attachment to these gardens was identified by 17.5% of respondents. Sense of attachment to a place result in a sense of belonging to towns and society and consequently enhance society’s health status. Silence of gardens, meeting people and familiarity option follow in decreasing frequency. Motives like garden’s silence and consideration of garden as meeting place reflect needs of experiencing solitude, as well as social relation and integration. 286 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
  • 7. 4.2 Functional Aspects of the Gardens  Another aspect of gardens is how gardens are to be used by residents. To understand the functions of gardens in urban area, respondents were asked: “What is your experience and activity during visitation of garden?” The following alternative options were given: I come to visit this garden for recreation, for sitting alone, for wandering and walking, for family picnic, to be with others, to do exercise, to observe nature and to be part of nature. A frequency analysis of people’s activity in gardens revealed that the most important experience which is considered by respondents is recreation. 49.6% of respondents visit gardens for recreation (Fig. 2). This result denotes the psychological effects of nature which evoke calm and relaxation as well as stress reduction. Subsequently, this confirms why 40% of respondents considered natural observation as second most important experience of garden. Also, 27.8% of respondents mentioned that visiting gardens is like being a part of nature. This result reflects again the importance of nature. For walking 4% To do exercise 7.5% For sitting 17% To be with others 22.2% For family picnic 25.4% To observe nature 27.8% For Recreation 49.6% Figure 2: Experiences and activities in garden. Family picnic (25.4%) and to be with others (22.2%) constitute another important aspects of garden’s function. These functions reveal the social aspects of gardens which encourage people to use urban green spaces as part of their daily life style and to be with others. Subsequently, increase social interaction and integration invoke trust and supportive behaviors. Other activities like sitting, exercising and walking follow in decreasing frequency and less considered by respondents. 4.3 The Emotional Dimension of Gardens’ Experience  Another important research interest was to explore the emotional dimension of nature based *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 287 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 8. experiences, the benefits people perceive through natural contact and the relationship with their well-being. To explore emotional aspects of garden, respondents were asked to answer the following question: “What feelings do gardens evoke you?” and the following alternative options were given: safety, freedom, comfortable, happiness, calm and tranquility, memories remembrance, feeling healthier, feeling that you are closer to nature and feeling that you are different. Frequency analysis of the answers about the feelings experienced (Fig. 3) shows that “calm and tranquility” is the feeling most frequently cited by respondents, which accounts for 50% of the answers. The tranquil atmosphere of the garden inspires reflection, meditation, and a general feeling of harmony between one self and the surrounding. Also, it is assumed that feelings and emotions we perceive in natural environment are relevant part of our experiences in nature. So, integration of results of first important experience in gardens (recreation) and current finding verify the assumption. Memories remembrance is another emotional aspects which was considered by 42.8% of respondents. Feel I am different 2% Freedom 14.7% Safety 15.5% Feel healthier 19.4% Comfortable 21.8% Closer to nature 33.7% Happiness 35.3% Memories remembrance 42.8% Calm and tranquility 50% 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 Figure 3: Feelings and emotional experiences. Happiness is another feeling that gardens evoke for respondents, accounting almost 35% of the answers. Also, 33.7% of respondents mentioned feeling closer to nature. Therefore, it can be proven that there is a relationship between nature and positive feelings like happiness as well as comfortable (21.8%) and feeling healthier (19.4%). Feeling safe and freedom follow in decreasing frequency. Feeling “I am different in this garden” was less considered by respondents (2%). 288 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
  • 9. 4.4 Garden Visitation and Well­being  For better understanding about the importance of natural experience for people’s well-being, respondents were asked to rank the importance of visiting gardens for emotional and physical disease like: depression, sadness, tiredness and sickness along a 1–5 points measurement scale (1, not important at all; 2, not important; 3, important; 4, very important; 5, essential). A frequency analysis showed that responses range from important to essential. Respondents believed that visiting gardens could mostly reduce depression (94%) as well as removing tiredness, accounting almost 90% of answers. Also, results show that sadness (81.6%) and physical sickness (76.3%) could be better during and after garden visitations. Overall, findings revealed nature effects on betterment of both emotional and physical disease, widely emotional ones. Table 1: Variables that Affect People Presence in the Gardens. Variables Very Much Much Less Very Less Not Effective Organization 37.9% 6.7% 6.7% 0.0% 3.0% Representative 37.9% 6.3% 6.5% 1.3% 2.4% Accessibility 27.2% 12.5% 10.1% 0.0% 4.5% Familiarity 27.2% 17.2% 8.4% 0.2% 1.3% Symbolism 28.2% 14.4% 6.0% 1.1% 4.3% Emotion 14.2% 14.7% 1.1% 0.9% 1.9% Activity 13.4% 5.4% 6.5% 2.4% 5.2% Memories 7.8% 8.6% 7.3% 3.4% 6.6% Naturalness 17.9% 6.5% 3.9% 0.6% 3.9% At the end, to articulate aspects of historical Persian garden that could affect people’s presence, respondents were asked to rank the importance of the following features for people presence. Features include: garden’s organization, accessibility, familiarity, activity, naturalness, emotion and memory of respondents about gardens, garden’s representativeness and symbolisms. Findings indicate that all features ranged as essential one with different frequency (See Table 1). Garden’s organizations as well as representativeness are considered as most important features that could affect people presence for almost 37.9% of respondents. Symbolism identified as second *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 289 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 10. most important feature that affect 28% of people who visit these gardens. Most of respondents mentioned that people visit this garden because these gardens are historic. Accessibility and familiarity achieved a same value (27.2%) for people presence in gardens. Emotional and physical (activity) aspects of gardens follow in decreasing frequency, accounting around ¼ of the answers. Respondent’s garden related memories identified as the last factor that could affect people presence in gardens (7.8%). 5. Discussions and Recommendations  The information emerged from the survey indicates that historical Persian gardens fulfils important residents’ needs in urban context. Obtained results are according to previous researches regarding people’s need to experience nature (Kaplan and Kaplan, 1989). People visit gardens primarily because they want to relax. Recreation is as an important need fulfilled in Persian gardens (49.6%). Residents considered gardens as recreational area which is mentioned in Chiesura (2004) research and important factors to make the city livable, pleasant and attractive for its citizens and this is why ¼ of respondents carry out social activities like being with others and family picnic in these gardens. Social activities that happened in these gardens signify Coley et al (1997) results that nature can encourage the use of outdoor spaces and increase social integration and interaction among neighbors which lead to trust, mutual understanding, shared values and supportive behavior (Loures et al., 2007). Therefore from the social point of view, historical Persian gardens considered by residents as urban nature and daily outdoor recreation opportunities are the main factors that Eronene et al (1997) believed could enhance every day well-being. Furthermore, findings show that the experience of nature in the city is a source of a large array of positive feelings to people. Calm and tranquility is the most important feeling that residents experience in historical Persian gardens. Besides, feeling happiness, comfortable, safety, freedom and even healthier were frequently mentioned by respondents. Results confirmed psychological health effects of nature on positive moods like pleasure which were indicated by Ulrich (1982) as well as reduction of negative effects like anger and anxiety (Rohde and Kendle, 1994) which evoke calmness and tranquility and provide restorative environments that can help strengthen the activities of the right hemisphere of the brain and restore harmony to functions on the brain as a whole (Furnas, 1979). In other words, people who have access to nearby natural settings were 290 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
  • 11. found to be healthier overall than other individuals (Kaplan, 1989). And, all these emotional and psychological benefits contribute critically to the quality of human life, which in turn is a key component of sustainable development (Chiesura, 2004). This is why respondents ranged the importance of visiting gardens for emotional and physical disease as important and even as essential factors. Most of the respondents believed that during and after gardens’ visitation, depression and tiredness decreased and even sadness and physical disease could be lessened. 6. Conclusion  In the context of this study, the role of historical Persian gardens as provider of social services and their importance for city sustainability has been addressed. Some results have been presented of a survey aimed at exploring the motives and perceptions of visitors of two well-known samples of historical Persian gardens. Some conclusive remarks can be made. First of all, historical Persian gardens as natural urban area fulfill many social functions and psychological needs of citizens, which make these gardens a valuable municipal resource, and a key ingredient for city sustainability. Secondly, attributes of the physical environment interact with various human characteristics, such as socio demographics and people’s perceptions of the environment could affect physical activities and this in turn influences health outcomes. So, links among environmental attributes, physical activity, body weight, and health can result in environmental compatibility and sense of attachment to a place which result on the quality of life and well-being. Therefore, valuation of the various amenities, social and psychological services of urban areas should be integrated into project assessments’ procedure and be properly accounted for in policy decisions and urban planning strategies as well as user’s satisfactions, needs and their representation and participation in all aspects of urban life which are critical components in a sustainable city. *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 291 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 12. 7. References  Beck, U. (1992). Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity. London, Sage Burgess, J., Harrison, C.M., Limb, M., 1988. People, parks and the urban green: A study of popular meanings and values for open spaces in the city. Urban Study 25: 455–473.Clark, E. (2004). The Art of Persian Garden. Crowood Press. Chiesura, A. 2004. The role of urban parks for the sustainable city. Landscape and Urban planning 68: 129-138 Coley, R., Kuo, F., Sullivan, W., 1997. Where does community grow? The social context created by nature in urban public housing. Environment and Beahvior 29:468-494 Conway, H. 2000. Parks and people: The social functions. Costanza, R., d’Arge, R., de Groot, R, Farber, S., Grasso, M., Hannon, B., Laskin, R., Sutton, P.and Van den belt, M. 1997. The value of the world’s ecosystem services and natural capital. Nature 387: 253-260 Ferris, J., C. Norman, J. Sempik (2001). People, land and sustainability: Community gardens and the social dimension of sustainable development. Social and Administration 35 (5): 559-568 Eronene, S., Nurmi, J. E., and Aro, K. S. (1997). Planning-Oriented, Avoidant, and Impulsive Social Reaction Styles: A Person-Oriented Approach. Journal of Research in Personality, 31, 34–57. Gehl, J., Gemzoe, L. 2001. New City Spaces. Copenhagen: Danish Architectural Press. Grahn, P. 1985. Man’s needs for Urban parks, Greenery and Recreation. Institute for landscape planning, Swedish Agricultural university , Alnarp. Godbey, G., Grafe, A., James, W., 1992. The Benefits of Local Recreation and Park Services. A Nationwide Study of Perceptions of the American Public. College of Health and Human development, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania Hartig, T., Mang, M., Evans, G., 1991. Restorative effects of natural environments experiences. Environmental Behavior 23: 3-26. Jongman, R.H.G., 1995. Nature conservation in Europe: Developing ecological networks. Landscape Urban Plann, 32:169-183 Jongman, R.H.G., M. Kulvik and I.Kristiansen, 2004. Eopean ecological networks and greenways. Landscape Urban Planning, 68: 05-319 Lothian, A. 1999. Landscape and the Philosophy of Aesthetic: Is landscape Quality Inherent in the Landscape or in the Eye of Beholder. Landscape and urban planning: 177-198 292 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava
  • 13. Hidalgo, M. C., Berto, R., Galindo, M. P., Getrevi, A. (2006). Identifying Attractive and Unattractive Urban Places: Categories, Restorativeness and Aesthetic Attributes. Medio Ambiente y Comportamiento Humano7(2): 115-133. Kaplan, S. 1983. A Model of Person-Environment Compatibility. Environment and Behavior, 15, 311-332 Kaplan, R., and Kaplan, S. (1989). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective. New York: Cambridge University Press. Kaplan, S. 1995. The Restorative Benefits of Nature: Toward an Integrative Framework. Environmental Psychology 15: 169 – 182. Krenichyn, K. (2004). "Women and Physical Activity in an Urban Park: Enrichment and Support through an Ethic of Care. Environmental Psychology 24: 117-130. Loures, L., Santos, R., and Panagopoulos, T. (2007). Urban Parks and Sustainable City Planning-the Case of Portimão, Portugal. WSEAS Transactions on Environment and Development, 3(10), 171–180. Maller, C., Townsend, M., Pryor, A., Brown, P., and St Leger, L. 2005. Healthy nature healthy people: ‘contact with nature’ as an upstream health promotion intervention for populations. Health Promotion International, 21 (1), 45-54. Miller, R.W. 1988. Urban Forestry: Planning and Managing Urban Green Spaces. Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ. Nasar, J. L. 1983. Adult Viewer's Preferences in Residential Scenes: A Study of the Relationship of Environmental Attributes to Preference. Environment and Behavior 32: 357-363 Opdam, P., E. Steingrover and S. Van Rooji. 2006. Ecological networks: Aspatial concept for multi-actor planning of sutainable lndscapes. Landscape Urban Plann 75: 322-324 Ozdemir, A. 2007. Urban sustainability and open space networks. Applied sciences 7(23): 3713-3720 Sachs, A. 1995. Eco-Justice: linking human rights and the environment. World-watch Paper 127. Washington DC. Sibley, P. 1998. The Sustainable Management of Green Space, ILAM. Solecki, W.D., Welch, J.M., 1995. Urban parks: green spaces or green walls? Landscape Urban Plan. 32, 93–106. *Corresponding author (R. ROSTAMI). H/P: +06-177187197 E-mail address: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com. 2012. American Transactions on Engineering & Applied Sciences. Volume 1 No.3. ISSN 2229-1652 eISSN 2229-1660 Online 293 Available at http://TuEngr.com/ATEAS/V01/281-294.pdf
  • 14. St Leger, L. (2003). Health and Nature-New Challenges for Health Promotion. Health Promotion International, 18, 3, 173-175. Takano, T., Nakamura, K. and Watanabe, M. 2002. Urban residential environments and senior citizens‘ longevity in mega-city areas: the importance of walkable green space. J. Epidemiol. Commun. Health 56, 12, 913–916. Thompson, I. H. 2000. Ecology, Community and Delight—Sources of Values in Landscape Architecture. London: E and F.N. Spon. Thompson, C. W. 2002. Urban open space in the 21st century. Landscape and urban plan 60: 59-72 Tinsley, H. E. A. and C. E. Croskeys 2002. "Park Usage, Social Milieu, and Psychosocial Benefits of Parks Use Reported by Older Urban Park Users from Four Ethnic Groups.” Leisure Science 24:199-218 Ulrich, R.S. 1981. Natural versus urban sciences: Some psycho-physiological effects. Environmental and Behavior 13: 523-556 Zhang, L and H. Wang., 2006. Planning and ecological network of Xiamen Island (China) using landscape metrics and network analysis. Landscape Urban Plan, 78 (4): 449-456 Raheleh Rostami received her MSc in Architecture in 2006 from Islamic Azad University of Kerman. Currently she is a PhD Candidate in Landscape Architecture in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Her current research interests are landscape design and its history and philosophy, people's perceptions and behaviors with regard to urban landscapes and integration of public perceptions and values in planning and management of urban open spaces. Dr.Hasanuddin Lamit received his PhD in Architecture from Sheffield University, United Kingdom. Currently, he is an Associated Professor in the Faculty of Built Environment Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. His current research interests are urban design and history / philosophy of landscape architecture. Seyed Meysam Khoshnava is currently a master student in Construction Management in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. His current research interests are Green and Sustainability, and application of softwares such as BIM, Autodesk Ecotech, and Auto desk Green Studio. Peer Review: This article has been internationally peer-reviewed and accepted for publication according to the guidelines given at the journal’s website. Note: This article was accepted and presented at the 2nd International Conference-Workshop on Sustainable Architecture and Urban Design (ICWSAUD) organized by School of Housing, Building & Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia from March 3rd -5th, 2012. 294 Raheleh, Rostami, Hasanuddin Lamit, and Seyed Meysam Khsohnava