Reflection on the Evolution of Double-Shell Facades in the World of Islamic Architecture (Case study: Physical and Spatial Pattern of Mashrebiyeh)

Double-shell facades are physical and spatial patterns in the world of Islamic architecture. This architectural element, has been formed over years as a result of historical wisdom, taken different forms in each region, depending on climate, geography and local technologies, and the accepted special local name. Since, Mashrebiyeh is a comprehensive term for double-shell facades in the past architecture of many Islamic countries, this research examines the double-shell facades from the perspective of the physical and spatial pattern of the Mashrebiyeh. Generally, in the past, these elements were in the form of lattice panels against the main facade windows which were functional. Additionally, it not only controls the amount of light and brightness, but also, allows the wind to enter within the space. Over time, with the emergence of new technologies, these indigenous patterns have also changed in many parts of the Islamic world, and taken different shape in accordance with the new needs of users and building utility. This study, by examining the different dimensions of the physical and spatial elements of Mashrebiyeh in the Islamic world, extracts the design criteria of this double-shell facades and how their contemporary analyzes are comparatively assessed with the past and contemporary examples. In this research, focusing on the double-shell facades examples in contemporary architecture; ten examples were selected and then the components influencing in the design of double-shell walls, such as; the location, function, type, visual attraction and technology execution which have played an effective role in creating contemporary double-shell facades were analyzed. The research is based on qualitative and descriptive-analytical method and the information collected is based on library document.