Operational method for analyzing Mashhad’s historical houses’ spatial organization (Qajar-Pahlavi) in open space using Dematel

This study explores the relationship between courtyard geometry and the spatial organization of historical houses in Mashhad during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods. It examines how courtyard dimensions (length, width, and height) affect spatial hierarchy and domestic layout, aiming to quantify this relationship and to inform culturally responsive contemporary residential design. An analytical-exploratory approach was applied in three stages. First, a literature review identified key factors influencing spatial organization in traditional Iranian houses. Second, the DEMATEL method was used to analyze causal relationships and assess the relative importance of these factors. Third, a purposive sample of 37 historical houses (15 Qajar and 22 Pahlavi) was modeled in AutoCAD 2013, and their geometric data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 2016. The findings demonstrate a significant linear relationship between courtyard geometry and spatial organization, expressed as y = kx. The coefficient k was calculated as 1.7 for Qajar houses and 1.48 for Pahlavi houses, indicating a gradual shift in spatial proportionality over time. DEMATEL results reveal that courtyard geometry is the most influential factor in shaping spatial organization, with the highest prominence value (23.80%), followed by climatic and socio-political factors. Overall, the study contributes original value by applying DEMATEL to housing spatial analysis and by transforming the traditional central courtyard from a descriptive typology into a measurable and replicable model. The results offer practical, evidence-based guidance for designing culturally responsive, sustainable, and human-centered contemporary housing.