Energy Sustainability in Iranian Tourism Buildings: The Role of Form and Orientation in Optimizing Solar Energy Absorption and Energy Consumption

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

School of architecture, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Given the increasing demand for energy and the irreversible effects of climate change worldwide, attention to the energy optimization of buildings has been more significant than ever before. This study examines the impact of building form and orientation on energy consumption and solar energy absorption in tourism complexes in four distinct climates of Iran (cold and dry, warm and dry, temperate and humid, and warm and moist). Using Grasshopper extensions with Honeybee and Ladybug, seven different building forms were simulated from 45 ° west to 45 ° east, resulting in a total of 315 scenarios. The results show that compact forms, such as cubic and L-shaped forms, generally consume 15% to 25% less energy compared to courtyard, U-shaped, or cruciform buildings. In the cold climate of Shahrekord, the difference between forms was less visible, while in Yazd, Gorgan, and Qeshm, energy consumption varied greatly due to the higher demand for building cooling. The shape and rotation of the structure were more important in adverse climates, with some forms increasing energy consumption by 30% to 40%. In general, a cubic form with an eastward rotation (2 to 10 degrees) provides the most optimal energy efficiency and solar gain. The results show that designers’ decisions about these factors early in the design process can significantly reduce the building’s annual energy consumption and ultimately carbon footprint over the life of the building.

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Journal of Design Thinking

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 14 June 2026

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