Environment as a Pattern for Design. Case study: Shandiz valley in Mashhad - Iran

The aim of this paper is to review the created problems and failure of environmental design patterns in designing process by designers. Not respectfully addressing the context of environment during designing process have resulted in the loss quality of environment, damage to both nature and essence of environment as manifested in the case study area. Methodology of the research was based on the qualitative methods, which includes content analysis (aerial photos, maps), observation of the environment, and documentation. Building styles and the general build environment were analyzed in both traditional and new forms styles. Findings of research have identified that the rate of morphological and geomorphology changes is relatively fast which physically resulted in the lost of the natural terrain forms. This process has also impacted the view and vista of the area and the beauty of the place. New forms of housing and villas have been built according to marketing demands although they may be in harmony and in congruence with the traditional form of housing and also character of the existing environment. Conclusions of the research go toward establishing elements and components of the build environment as a basic for creating design guideline in designing the environment, which in this instance should be to produce a coherent and in connectivity with the environment via design. This guideline include these issues: (a) form of building, (b) materials, (c) position and location of placement, (d) density and massing, (e) land form and harmony with context, and (f) composition.