Crystallizing Poetry in Sustainable Architecture: Humanitarian Impact and Mystical Influence of Rumi

Sürdürülebilir Mimaride Kristalleşen Şiir: Mevlana'nın İnsani Etkisi ve Mistik Etkisi

Abstract

Abstract:

Mysticism and architectural art are closely connected, reflecting human existence by portraying cultural, spiritual, and social identities. The Iranian American architect Nader Khalili was not only a theoretical architect, but he also addressed human needs through architecture, drawing inspiration from the thoughts and poems of Rumi. He incorporated elements from Rumi's Masnavi in his remarkable work for various purposes, either explicitly or implicitly, intentionally or unintentionally. This connection is evident in his effort to inform the architectural world in which he lived, use imaginative architectural forms in his speech, establish a link between architecture and existence, and present broad ideas that can be applied to architecture. By inviting people to remember God through architecture, he sought to explore the concept of creationism in architecture through Rumi's thoughts. Iranian American architect Nader Khalili transformed sustainable architecture with his innovative earthbag construction system, "Superadobe." This system was created to provide affordable housing in distressed areas. Inspired by the poetry and philosophy of Rumi, Khalili's work emphasizes the connection between architecture, humanity, and spirituality. This article explores Khalili's approach, its philosophical links to Rumi's Masnavi, and the global impact of his designs. By addressing the human and architectural aspects of existence and their intersections, Khalili's adobe structures contribute to philanthropic housing and provide insight into the fusion of tradition with modern knowledge. Case studies demonstrate the resilience of these structures in the face of natural disasters and their role in sustainable and culturally relevant design.

Keywords: Earthbag construction, Superadobe, Sustainable architecture, Rumi, Masnavi, humanitarian design, Nader Khalili.