Rethinking Construction: From Feasibility Studies to Climate-Responsive Urban Development

According to SAMA, experts participating in a discussion emphasized the need to rethink construction processes, describing feasibility studies as the missing link in projects. They called for cities to move toward smaller housing units, the integration of “life” into urban design, the revision of regulations, the facilitation of financing methods, and urban development based on each region’s climate and culture.

Feasibility: The Most Important and First Step in Construction Projects

Ahmad Zolfaghari, a member of the Construction Industry Association, pointed to a common mistake made by builders and investors in construction projects, identifying feasibility as the most important and initial concern. According to him, the key question is whether a group, given existing conditions, can actually carry out a construction project.

Cities Moving Toward Smaller Housing Units

Mohammad Ali Makarem, CEO of Pars Khodro Company, noted the constraints of urban spaces and stated that cities must move toward downsizing and densifying spaces. In his view, when units are made smaller, it is the layout and design that can keep customers and users satisfied.

The Need to Bring “Life” into Urban Design

Afshin Karbalaei, an inspector for the Iran National Mass Builders Association, stressed that urban designs must introduce vitality and life into city spaces. He argued that structures should not be built solely with a construction-oriented mindset, but should also embody a living quality.

Revising Rules and Facilitating Financing Methods

Karbalaei attributed part of the problems to existing rules and regulations, saying these must be amended and reviewed so that financing methods and various construction approaches can be improved and facilitated. According to him, these measures are being carried out within the framework of national legislation, and a proposal has also been submitted to the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development.

Pilot Sites and a Model Based on Climate and Culture

Seyed Mohammad Hosseini Tabatabaei, Director General of Roads and Urban Development for Semnan Province, announced that several pilot sites have been designated in the province. He stated that this model has proven successful, with the construction carried out being fully aligned with local conditions and people’s needs, earning their satisfaction. According to him, under the new models, urban development is to proceed based on each region’s climate and cultural conditions, so that it matches people’s needs and effectively implements a people-centered approach in this field.