Revitalizing Golshan and Sharifieh caravanserais: a study in adaptive reuse and urban preservation

Abstract The inefficient urban textures often turn into hotspots of social anomalies, leading to depressed, insecure, and non-participatory spaces. The issue of preserving historic urban textures and their dynamic evolution is essential for sustainable urban development. This research delves into the potential for adaptive reuse of the Golshan and Sharifiye caravanserais in the Hamadan city in Iran. These historically valuable structures previously helped in the facilitation of trade and travel; now, they need regeneration. The research, therefore, aims to harness the tourism and functional capacity of the abandoned Sharifiye caravanserai by linking it with the more popular Golshan caravanserai. This link will prevent abandonment and the deterioration of the Sharifiye caravanserai through the creation of an in-between space since it revitalizes both sites. The study emphasizes preserving cultural heritage while at the same time accommodating modern amenities to meet present needs. Therefore, the proposed adaptive reuse method would focus on preserving historical integrity while enabling the building to have a contemporary use. The method then proposes the creation of a transitional zone that transits the historic fabric to modern interventions. The revitalization and reuse of these caravanserais should be able to attract traders, generate hospitable conditions for residents, and increase local income through the tourism generated and the commerce of handicrafts and traditional arts. Effective principles of adaptive reuse are needed to maintain stability in the structure and function of these buildings. The study concludes that a balanced and thoughtful adaptive reuse approach with in-between space can bring transformation in the abandoned space into a lively cultural hub that would contribute both towards economic and cultural development in Hamadan.