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Belali Oskoyi A, Zolfi E. (2024). Investigation of Proportions Utilized in the Facades of Industrial Buildings in Tabriz Case Study: Khosravi Leather Factory, Tabriz) Investigation of the Proportions of Industrial Plants. Athar. 45(106), 153-182. doi:10.22034/45.106.6
URL: http://athar.richt.ir/article-2-1805-en.html

Abstract
Industrial architecture, as a significant and intriguing field, focuses on the use of sturdy and aesthetically pleasing materials, emphasizing simplicity and functionality, while paying close attention to details and proportions. In the façades of industrial buildings in Tabriz, architectural proportions are achieved through repetitive fixed modules of brick formwork, considering details such as windows and openings. This approach, coupled with the blending of European industrial architectural elements and local features, exhibits an innovation in the realm of industrial architecture in Tabriz. This study investigates the proportions used in the façades of industrial factories in Tabriz, with a case study on the Khosravi Tannery. The research analyzes architectural elements and design principles utilized in industrial buildings in Tabriz, focusing on architectural proportions in openings and entrances, including patterns employed in these areas, particularly examining the aesthetic and functional aspects of building façades. Through the analysis of the Khosravi Tannery, the research aims to present insights into the relationship between geometry, ornamentation, and industrial architecture during the Pahlavi era in Tabriz. The results indicate that, in the façades of industrial buildings, as with other historical structures, the golden ratio and geometric proportions have been employed. By analyzing all patterns derived from openings and entrances, a fundamental pattern in façades was identified, which can be applied in designing openings and entrances of other buildings, enhancing the diversity and aesthetic appeal of façades.
Keywords: Geometry, Ornaments, Industrial Factories, Pahlavi Era, Tabriz.

Introduction
Iron, as the primary material in industrial buildings, has played a crucial role in architectural transformations. The introduction of European architecture in the late Qajar period brought significant changes to Iran's construction styles. This shift became particularly prominent during the Pahlavi era, when modern materials and the expertise of foreign architects, especially Germans, led to the development of structures with distinct architectural styles. These transformations were especially evident in Tabriz, a major industrial center and a gateway for modernity in Iran, where manifestations of modern industrial architecture emerged.
The façades of industrial factories, as a fundamental aspect of industrial architecture, have always been influenced by architectural principles and geometric proportions, such as the golden ratio and the Fibonacci spiral. This research aims to analyze the façades of industrial factories in Tabriz during the Pahlavi period, examining the impact of these proportions on their design. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology, utilizing library and archival research along with field observations to collect data. Historical maps indicate that fourteen industrial factories were established in Tabriz during this period, though only a few remain intact today.
As a case study, five buildings from the Khosravi Leather Complex, one of the most renowned industrial factories in Tabriz, have been analyzed. This research seeks to identify the geometric patterns, applied proportions, and decorative elements in their façades. Ultimately, the study aims to answer the question of which geometric proportions were employed in the façades of Tabriz’s industrial factories during the Pahlavi era and what patterns can be discerned in the design of openings and entrances.

Discussion
During the First Pahlavi era, the influence of Russian and German architects in Tabriz led to the development of industrial buildings with outward-oriented forms that maintained a direct connection with the street. These structures featured prominent vertical lines, tall columns, and large windows, enhancing their sense of grandeur, while their overall composition remained horizontally expansive and firmly grounded. Key characteristics of this period included symmetry, modular repetition in façades, and the integration of traditional Iranian architecture with international styles. The use of brick cladding and tile decorations was a strategic approach to harmonizing industrial architecture with the region’s cultural identity.
The analysis of openings in the Khosravi Leather Factory revealed that door and window designs incorporated brick arches and lintels with stone keystones, forming a framed light passage. Fifteen distinct shape patterns and thirteen dimensional models were identified, with geometric analyses demonstrating the presence of the golden ratio (1.618) and other mathematical proportions such as 1.41 and 1.73 in some patterns. Among them, Pattern No. 11 was recognized as the most geometrically cohesive, making it a reference model for industrial design.
The examination of entrances in this industrial complex identified nine different design patterns. The golden spiral, along with the proportions of 1.73 and 1.618, was found in certain entrances, whereas the 1.41 and 1.118 ratios were absent. Unlike the common First Pahlavi architectural trend of elevating entrances above street level, the factory entrances were designed flush with the street, indicating a stronger adherence to local architectural traditions.
The decorative brickwork used in these structures, although influenced by modern European architecture, was crafted by Iranian artisans and showcased a fusion of traditional and Western styles. Notable decorative elements included window frame detailing, column capitals, cornices, and entrance inscriptions, demonstrating the period’s blend of aesthetic and structural refinement.
The primary construction materials included brick (used in both structural and façade elements), wood, metal railings, galvanized sheets for roofing, and stone for base walls. The widespread use of brick instead of tiles on façades was a defining feature of this era.
Findings indicate that industrial architecture during this period preserved traditional characteristics while incorporating modern European geometric principles and proportions. The application of golden ratios and mathematical proportions in openings and entrances contributed to visual cohesion and enhanced spatial quality, exemplifying the successful integration of modern industrial architecture with Iran’s vernacular architectural heritage.

Conclusion
The research findings indicate that architects in the design of industrial factory facades in Tabriz have been significantly influenced by specific geometric principles and proportions. The application of proportional systems such as 1/41, 1/73, and the golden spiral in the design of entrances and openings has played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identity of these structures. A detailed analysis of the patterns present in these facades reveals that the 1/41 proportion is the most prevalent for entrances, while the 1/73 proportion dominates in openings. Furthermore, according to Table (11), pattern 11 is the most common in openings, and per Table (19), patterns 3 and 9 exhibit the highest proportionality in entrances, serving as fundamental design templates.
Additionally, in the design of the Khosravi leather-making buildings, distinctive features such as cubic volumes and pedimented facades with arched windows have been employed, reflecting the influence of Qajar architectural styles as well as Western architectural impacts, particularly from European engineers. These influences are clearly manifested in the juxtaposition and synthesis of tradition and modernity, highlighting an endeavor to craft a distinct identity within Iran's industrial architecture. Given the innovative structural designs—such as large halls supported by trussed beams and metal sheets—it can be inferred that these buildings not only reflect the industrial transformations of their era but also embody the interaction between diverse cultural and architectural paradigms.
Thus, the examination of proportions and geometry in these structures has not only influenced their visual dimensions but has also contributed to a deeper understanding and appreciation of industrial architecture in contemporary Iran. This study represents a significant step toward enriching research on geometry and architectural proportions in Iran and may serve as a foundation for further investigations in this field.