Traditional Persian residential buildings typically had a central courtyard surrounded by various rooms and functional spaces. The floor plans varied depending on the size, wealth, and purpose of the building, such as whether it was a house, mansion, or palace. However, some common features can be observed:
1. Iwan: An iwan is a large arched hall that often served as the entrance to the building. It was typically placed on one side of the courtyard and provided a grand entryway.
2. Courtyard: The central courtyard was the heart of the building, with surrounding rooms opening onto it. It offered an open space to provide ventilation, natural light, and privacy for inhabitants.
3. Garden: Some larger houses and mansions had gardens within the central courtyard, adding greenery and aesthetics to the living space. The garden often included trees, plants, fountains, and pathways.
4. Rooms: Residential buildings had several rooms surrounding the courtyard. The arrangement and number of rooms could vary, but common types included:
- Reception Rooms: These were used to host guests and were often located near the entrance or close to the courtyard.
- Living Quarters: Private rooms used by the family members for living and sleeping.
- Service Quarters: Rooms used for servants, storage, or other household functions. These were typically located towards the back or sides of the building.
5. Harem: In larger buildings, such as mansions or palaces, there might be a separate section known as the "harem." This area was reserved for the women of the household and typically included bedrooms, baths, living rooms, and private gardens.
6. Roof Terraces: Persian residential buildings often incorporated spacious roof terraces. These areas provided additional living space, gathering areas, and views of the surroundings.
It should be noted that the floor plans of Persian residential buildings varied across different regions and architectural periods. Over time, various influences, such as Islamic, Persian, and local architectural styles, played a role in shaping the floor plans of these buildings.
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