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

Abstract

Islamic architecture represents a successful example in extracting the mathematical proportionsand the fractal geometry of the natural organisms. The Mameluke architecture is considered atransitional stage to a more self-similar detailed geometry presented in a diverse scale range. Thatwas 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 geometryin 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 interactiveparametric model, which has two reversible functions; First, to analyse by tracing the fractalgeometry evolution of Al-sultan Hassan madrasa layout and secondly, to apply the fractaldimension as a design generator to more advanced fractal forms. Al-sultan Hassan madrasarepresents 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 specificstyle.