Introduction
In recent decades, the peri-urban areas of Tehran have witnessed the emergence of luxury spaces that have caused significant changes in the social, economic, and physical structures of these regions. This study aims to explain the formation of luxury spaces in Tehran's peri-urban areas, particularly in the Lavasanat district, by examining the factors contributing to this phenomenon. The formation and development of luxury spaces in the peri-urban areas of metropolitan Tehran, especially in Lavasanat, pose serious challenges for urban decision-makers and planners. Given the lack of studies and research in this field and the insufficient understanding of the unique conditions and nature of dealing with the phenomenon of luxury spaces, we set out to conduct a spatial analysis of the process of 'gentrification' in the Lavasanat region to gain adequate knowledge, insight, and understanding to address the research questions.
 
Methodology
 The research method is descriptive-analytical, and the data used is a combination of qualitative and quantitative information collected from various sources, including library studies, interviews with residents and urban experts, and spatial data (satellite imagery). The study area is the Lavasanat district in Shemiranat County, Tehran Province. The analysis methods include qualitative content analysis and the analysis of satellite images using various indices, including NDVI.
 
Results and discussion
The research findings, analyzed on three levels—including interviews, satellite imagery, and physical-spatial transformations—indicate that Lavasanat has transformed from a traditional summer resort area into a stratified space with residential-recreational functions catering to the affluent class. According to the results, the main initial attractions for investment in the Lavasanat region were its proximity to Tehran (with only a 40-minute commute to the city center), unspoiled nature, and clean air. However, NDVI analysis reveals that between 2000 and 2025, 35% of the vegetation cover has been lost due to construction activities. Furthermore, it was found that economic factors such as the role of large-scale investments (e.g., luxury residential complexes with amenities such as swimming pools and 24/7 security), inflation (land being considered a safe asset), and banking policies (such as low-interest loans in the 2000s) have significantly contributed to rising prices and facilitated rapid and unregulated development in the area. These are identified as key drivers behind the physical-spatial transformation of affluent zones in Lavasanat. The spatial-physical analysis of elite residential developments also highlights striking changes in land use and architectural patterns over time. The results show that in 2000, vegetation—especially along river valleys and mountainous slopes—was predominant. Over time, especially around the city of Lavasan and neighboring villages, urban development has increased while vegetation has significantly declined. Architectural and facade-related analyses revealed that village structures were once composed of one- or two-story houses made from local materials with simple exteriors. Over time, the use of modern materials such as brick and cement became widespread, and houses began to feature large windows and more complex facades. In recent years, architecture has shifted toward luxurious villas with modern or neoclassical designs, using premium materials. These villas are typically built on large plots, spaced apart, and include amenities such as pools, saunas, and private green spaces. In terms of urban patterns, the Lavasanat region has transitioned from an organic, traditional fabric toward a more scattered and planned form of development. The expansion of affluent villas in elevated and mountainous areas, along with the emphasis on privacy and natural views, is a notable aspect of this change. The garden-city style and preservation of vegetation in villa designs—especially in villages like Afjeh and the city of Lavasan—are also evident. Ultimately, the spatial-physical pattern of the Lavasanat region can be described as a hybrid of traditional rural living and modern urban life.
 
Conclusion
This study, by examining the formation process of affluent spaces in the Lavasanat region of Tehran, reveals that this phenomenon is the result of a complex interaction of economic, geographical, social, and political factors. According to the findings, the broader consequences of elite-oriented development in the Lavasanat area include environmental degradation through construction along riverbanks and within forest zones (often in violation of environmental regulations), social stratification marked by the displacement of local residents due to rising land prices, and the transformation of traditional livelihoods (such as agriculture) into villa-related service jobs (e.g., luxury restaurants). Additionally, the architectural landscape has shifted from single-story homes made with local materials to large, multi-story villas. Therefore, weak oversight, economic dualism, and conflicts of interest emerge as some of the most significant outcomes and challenges associated with the development of affluent spaces in Lavasanat. As a result, this study recommends that urban planners and policymakers address these issues by implementing stricter regulations and promoting balanced development in order to prevent further exacerbation of these challenges.
 
Funding
According to the responsible author, this article has no financial support
 
Authors’ Contribution
Authors contributed equally to the conceptualization and writing of the article. All of the authors approved thecontent of the manuscript and agreed on all aspects of the work declaration of competing interest none.
 
Conflict of Interest
Authors declared no conflict of interest.
 
Acknowledgments
 We are grateful to all the scientific consultants of this paper.