Dimensions of Housing Design, Construction, and Utilization in Religious Teachings, with an Emphasis on the Doctrines of Imam Reza (A.S.)

Ghadrdanjavan, Faezeh; AhmadiDroh, Masoud; Hamedani Doroh, Mahla

doi:10.22034/ijs.2025.428042.1165

Dimensions of Housing Design, Construction, and Utilization in Religious Teachings, with an Emphasis on the Doctrines of Imam Reza (A.S.)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Faezeh Ghadrdanjavan ¹

Masoud AhmadiDroh ²

Mahla Hamedani Doroh ³

¹ Lecturer and researcher in religious sciences, Master's degree in Nahjul-Balagha, Imam Reza International University, Mashhad, Iran.

² Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Imam Reza International University, Mashhad, Iran.

³ Bachelor's degree in English Translation, Imam Reza International University, Mashhad, Iran.

10.22034/ijs.2025.428042.1165

Abstract

The present study employs an analytical-interpretive approach to revisit the principles of housing design and construction within the framework of Islamic architecture, with an emphasis on the conduct (sirah) of Imam Reza (A.S.). In addressing contemporary challenges in residential architecture, such as consumerism, loss of identity, and detachment from authentic living concepts, the primary research question is: what are the principles and foundations of Islamic architecture in the domain of housing based on the teachings of Imam Reza, and how can these principles be reproduced in the form of a balanced and practical model? To this end, by drawing upon verses from the Holy Quran, narrations from the Infallibles (Peace Be Upon Them All), and particularly the conduct of Imam Reza (A.S), a systematic framework is presented. Within this framework, a house is analyzed not as a merely physical phenomenon, but as a “vital and blessing-generating nucleus.” The findings indicate that Razavi architecture is founded on multidimensional principles, among which are: qibla-centricity as the axis of spatial organization, balanced spaciousness, preservation of privacy, simplicity coupled with beauty, structural integrity and security, and the integration of material and spiritual functions. Furthermore, with innovation in detailing the design of interior and exterior spaces—including the kitchen, sanitary facilities, and façade—based on religious texts, this study proposes an operational and implementable model capable of adapting to contemporary housing needs. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the revisitation and modernization of these principles as a strategy for creating sustainable, identity-rich housing that is responsive to the needs of Islamic society.

Keywords

Imam Reza (A.S.)

Housing Design

Home

Islamic Architecture

Engineering Compliance

20.1001.1.29811341.1404.3.8.6.5

Subjects

امام رضا علیه السلام و هنر، معماری و شهرسازی

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