Established in 1990, Soffeh[1] is a double-blind peer-reviewed quarterly journal published by the Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University. The journal provides an open access intellectual platform for original researchers working on issues related to architecture, landscape design, urban planning and design, project and construction management, post-disaster reconstruction, restoration and historical studies of architecture. It is dedicated to publishing the highest-quality research reporting findings on issues of concern regarding the built environment. The journal is primarily published in Persian, with abstracts provided in English. In order to reach a wider audience, however, there is a plan to regularly publish special issues in English, starting with the present issue. This, we believe, is a significant opportunity to showcase our faculty’s distinguished position among its peers nationally. This issue is also our very first one with invited papers included, representing a range of topics. Plans are, however, for each future English issue to focus on a particular theme, and to be edited by an invited guest editor. Hamid Nadimi Editor-in-Chief
[1] 1. In Persian architecture, Soffeh refers to a type of raised platform that affords relaxation, leisure gatherings, and the display of goods by peddlers. They were also used for social performances, poetry readings, and similar events.
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