Investigating the Impact of Hot and Dry Climate on the Type of Sky-lights in the Historical Houses of Kerman

Based on conducted studies, lighting in Iranian architecture is one of the fundamental and essential features, with skylights playing a crucial role as a primary architectural element. Architecture in different regions is adjusted according to climatic conditions to maximize comfort while also considering the use of local materials. Given this, the design and placement of lighting elements can vary based on geographic location. The aim of this research is to examine the skylights in Qajar-era houses in Kerman and to explore the relationship between climate and regional architecture, considering both lighting and temperature factors simultaneously. Thus, the research questions are as follows: What are the characteristics of the windows in the historical houses of Kerman? Was natural light considered a key element in Kerman’s houses? Were the variety of windows in these historical homes adjusted based on climatic conditions? To achieve this goal, we studied four Qajar-era houses in Kerman: Azimi House, Kazemi House, Dinyar House, and Vaziri House. The research method is applied in nature and employs a descriptive and correlational approach for data collection, utilizing both field studies and library resources. By measuring the skylights and analyzing their design and positioning, we concluded that in desert regions, skylights are designed with small dimensions and colored glass to not only prevent direct sunlight but also regulate the lighting of the space. Additionally, these skylights are placed one meter above the floor and with a depth of less than 10 meters, providing both aesthetic appeal and environmental comfort.