Persian Gulf Heritage in Built Form and Coastal Architecture

This book provides a compelling and timely exploration of passive design strategies in the coastal city of Bushehr, revealing how centuries-old architectural wisdom can inform today’s urgent sustainability agenda. Set against the backdrop of escalating global warming and the high energy demand of HVAC systems, it demonstrates how vernacular solutions can significantly enhance building performance in hot–humid climates. Drawing from Bushehr’s rich architectural heritage, the book showcases climate-responsive orientation, spatial organization, natural ventilation methods, and innovative shading systems that ensured thermal comfort long before mechanical cooling existed. Combining field observations, environmental measurements, and insights from traditional building owners, it illustrates how these proven techniques can be refined through modern engineering analysis and seamlessly integrated into contemporary construction. Written for architects, engineers, students, and urban planners, this book serves as both a vital documentation of cultural heritage and a practical roadmap for designing energy-efficient, climate-adaptive, and culturally grounded buildings in coastal and hot and humid regions worldwide.

Dr. Jalil Shaeri is a researcher who earned his PhD in Architectural Engineering, specializing in natural ventilation, passive design strategies, and indoor–outdoor thermal comfort. With more than a decade of research experience, his work centers on developing innovative climate-responsive solutions within the framework of Persian architecture. In addition, he has conducted extensive research on Persian coastal architecture, producing studies that illuminate its traditional foundations and contemporary applicability. His research seeks to address environmental challenges by bridging vernacular architectural wisdom with modern design methodologies, thereby advancing sustainable and climate-adaptive architecture. 

 Prof. Ali Cheshmehzangi is a globally recognized scholar in urban sustainability and climate resilience, ranked among the top 2% of scientists by Stanford University. As Professor and Head of the School of Architecture, Design, and Planning at the University of Queensland, he leads research on sustainable urbanism, green design, and innovation in education. With over 20 years of leadership experience, including roles as Vice-President for International Engagement and Editor-in-Chief of Springer’s Urban Sustainability series, he has authored/edited 30+ books on sustainable development. His interdisciplinary work spans architecture, urban design, and policy, emphasizing low-carbon solutions and resilient cities.