Fractal Dimension of Islamic Architecture:The case of the Mameluke Madrasas - Al-Sultan Hassan Madrasa

Authors : Mai Abdelsalam, Mohamed Ibrahim

Pages : 27-37

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Publication Date : 2019-03-01

Article Type : Research

Abstract :I slamic architecture represents a successful example in extracting the mathematical proportions and the fractal geometry of the natural organisms. The Mameluke architecture is considered a transitional stage to a more self-similar detailed geometry presented in a diverse scale range. That was the motive behind using the fractal geometry as a patterned grid in Mameluke designs. Therefore, this research objective is to reveal the hidden dimensions within the fractal geometry in Mameluke architecture with special emphasis on Al-sultan Hassan madrasa as a case study. Fractal geometry exists within its geometry in four levels; the internal spaces main subdivisions, floor patterns, al-muqarnas and ornaments. Thus, the research establishes an interactive parametric model, which has two reversible functions; First, to analyse by tracing the fractal geometry evolution of Al-sultan Hassan madrasa layout and secondly, to apply the fractal dimension as a design generator to more advanced fractal forms. Al-sultan Hassan madrasa represents the likelihood of analysing and generating further styles based on its fractal geometry. The process could be applied supplemented with the parameters and limitations change. Hence, an infinite number of design variations are generated based on the fractal geometry of a specific style.
Keywords : Fractal Geometry, Islamic Architecture, Parametric Design, Geometry Evolution