Reconstruction and Re-interpretation of Lesser-known Gardens of Iran Case study: Bagh-i Nishat in Nishabour

Investigation of historical works of architecture as “complex socio-physical phenomena” requires adopting a special research approach and method that would yield an explanatory-narrative product. The Persian Garden is also an historical-cultural phenomenon in material form, many cases of which were built throughout the history of Iran. Case studies of any of the extant types of Persian Gardens in a way that would uncover facts from different angles and from under different layers would present us with various research topics which are presently among the priorities of Iranian architectural studies. Comprehensive research of recent lesser-known, deteriorating gardens can help us gain more in-depth knowledge of Persian Gardens in general. Bagh-I Nishat in Nishabour is among surviving gardens dating to the transition period from the traditional to the modern era. It is currently the subject of an extensive study which aims to produce a comprehensive understanding of it, and ultimately, a narrative by means of a holistic approach based on fieldwork and oral history, among other sources. This paper presents part of this extensive research which focuses on the documentation, reconstruction, and re-interpretation of the garden design. It is structured on two pivotal questions: one regarding space and physical design in the garden, and the other, choosing the appropriate research method with regard to opportunities and limitations of the proposed methods. Therefore, this paper is arranged around the theme of reconstruction and re-interpretation of the garden design and knowledge of the garden space, and at the same time discussing the application of the appropriate research method. Conclusively, the research produces a narrative of the story of the garden-design as a theatrical scene in three episodes.