Introduction: This study investigates the structural and cultural factors affecting energy performance and thermal comfort in black tents of nomads in the Quchan region of Khorasan Razavi. Given that humans spend a large part of their time indoors, indoor air quality and thermal comfort have a significant impact on their health, productivity, and morale. In traditional settlements, especially black tents, energy plays a vital role in providing thermal comfort and quality of life.

Research Objective: To identify and analyze the structural, cultural, and climatic factors affecting energy performance and thermal comfort in black tents of the nomads of the Kermanj tribe (Bachvanlu tribe, Zafaranlu clan) in the summer regions of Quchan and the Maraveh Tepeh Qeshlaqi.

Research Methodology: This study, with a qualitative approach and descriptive-analytical nature, has used a combined method of documentary studies (library and articles) and field research (in-depth interviews). The data from the two sections were analyzed qualitatively and interpretively.

• Geographical scope of the study:

• Summer cottage: Quchan County, Hezar Masjid Mountains, Yadak Village (from late May to early September). The climate of the region is semi-arid and cold.

• Qeshlaq: Golestan Province, Maraveh Tepeh Region (from mid-October to mid-April). The climate of the semi-arid region with an average annual temperature of 18 degrees Celsius and a humidity of 61.2 percent, with an average temperature in summer above the comfort range.

• Nomad: Bachvanlu tribe, Zafaranlu clan, 370 km route between Golestan and northern Khorasan Razavi.

Findings and discussion:

Structure and function of the black tent:

• Materials: Mainly woven from goat hair and wooden poles. The mesh texture allows light to pass through and the hair fluff prevents dust from penetrating. The small holes facilitate the conduction of stove smoke to the outside. The natural expansion and contraction of the fibers provides unique thermal performance in different seasons.

• Dimensions: Variable based on economic conditions, usually 7 to 12 boards (each board 1 to 1.2 meters wide and 15 meters long).

• Construction: Use of individual wooden poles, with a longer middle pole to create a roof slope and prevent rainwater from accumulating. The goat hair material prevents water from penetrating.

• Lighting: In the past, lanterns and round-burning lamps, today solar panels.

• Interior space: Different in summer and winter according to the needs of use in each season.

Results: As a prominent example of sustainable architecture, with minimal environmental impact and high adaptability, the black tent inspires contemporary sustainable architectural solutions to optimize energy consumption and pay attention to cultural-social dimensions in the design of living spaces.