Climate-responsive architecture is a sustainable approach that plays a crucial role in reducing energy consumption and improving thermal comfort by adapting buildings to local environmental conditions and employing vernacular design solutions. In Iran, traditional principles—such as windcatchers, verandas, central courtyards, optimal building orientation, and the use of local materials—enable natural regulation of temperature and airflow without reliance on mechanical systems. Windcatchers direct cool air into interior spaces, creating natural ventilation, while verandas and central courtyards, through proper shading and geometric design, enhance heat exchange and airflow. High thermal capacity materials further reduce indoor temperature fluctuations, maintaining thermal stability throughout the year. International studies indicate that passive strategies, including shading, building orientation, window design, and material selection, significantly reduce thermal loads and minimize the need for mechanical cooling. Combining these strategies with traditional Iranian elements provides a practical solution for energy reduction and thermal comfort improvement. Integrating vernacular knowledge with global practices facilitates the design of energy-efficient, near-zero-energy, and sustainable buildings, enhancing environmental quality and occupant comfort while preserving cultural heritage. This study adopts a review-analytical approach to examine climate-responsive architecture principles in Iran, comparing domestic case studies with international passive strategies in hot and arid climates.

Climate responsive architecture Sustainable architecture Windcatcher Central courtyard Passive strategies Energy consumption