Analysis of the architectural spatial system of traditional Iranian markets with the aim of extracting design patterns for contemporary commercial centers in the geographical space of Iran (Case study: Tabriz Historical Bazaar)

Sarafzadeh, Jafar; Ghobadian, Vahid; Jodeiri Abbasi, Mohammad; Shafizadeh, Asadollah

doi:10.22034/jgeoq.2026.565079.4386

Analysis of the architectural spatial system of traditional Iranian markets with the aim of extracting design patterns for contemporary commercial centers in the geographical space of Iran (Case study: Tabriz Historical Bazaar)

Authors

Jafar Sarafzadeh ¹

Vahid Ghobadian ²

Mohammad jodeiri Abbasi ¹

Asadollah Shafizadeh ¹

¹ Department of Architecture, Ah. C. Islamic Azad University, Ahar, Iran.

² Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22034/jgeoq.2026.565079.4386

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial configuration of traditional Iranian bazaars with the objective of extracting transferable design guidelines for contemporary commercial centers, using the Tabriz Historic Bazaar as the primary case study. The research adopts an applied, quantitative–analytical approach that integrates space syntax analysis with users’ perceptual evaluations. Spatial data were processed using Depthmap software based on the indicators of integration, choice, & spatial depth, while perceptual data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 180 users. Instrument reliability was verified using Cronbach’s alpha, the data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, & multiple regression analysis. The results of space syntax reveal that the main axes of the bazaar exhibit high levels of integration & choice, indicating strong spatial accessibility & movement potential, whereas deeper spatial layers demonstrate calmer & more specialized activity patterns. Correlation analysis confirms significant & positive relationships between all explanatory variables & perceived spatial quality, with sociability showing the strongest association. The regression model further indicates that sociability comfort–mental image are the most influential predictors of spatial quality.

The synthesis of quantitative & configurational findings demonstrates that the spatial performance of the Tabriz Bazaar is primarily driven by the interaction between network-based spatial logic, functional diversity, & the high capacity for social interaction. Based on these findings, key design principles including multi-route movement networks, balanced distribution of flow, spatial hierarchy, social pause nodes, spatial legibility, & active integration with the surrounding urban fabric are identified as the most transferable patterns for contemporary commercial design.

Keywords

Spatial Configuration

Tabriz Historic Bazaar

Space Syntax

Contemporary Commercial Centers