Problem statement: Branding of commercial complexes is considered as a factor contributing to economic prosperity in cities, attracting tourists, and improving environmental qualities. The design and construction of commercial complexes are among the key factors in branding these centers. The form and facade of buildings and their decorations and details are among the visible and tangible features of buildings that, in addition to their features and functions, can be used as a potential to attract audiences. Commercial complexes in the 2010s in major cities, especially Tehran, have grown and expanded significantly. Their branding can play an important role in the economic prosperity of Tehran, and in building up a good reputation for this city.
Research objective: This study attempts to identify the role of the form and facade of commercial complexes in branding these centers. This study also seeks to find out how the role of form and facade of commercial complexes in Tehran changes, and determine the degree of its compatibility with the global approach towards this issue.
Research methods: The method of the present qualitative research is descriptive and analytical. In terms of purpose, it is an applied study, and the data was collected through the bibliographic method and field studies.
Conclusion: The results of this study show that the improvement of the visual quality of buildings being in a favorable connection with the context, in addition to the increasing attractiveness, the establishment of unique and symbolic projects, the interaction with the city, and the display of culture and history, are among the physical branding strategies that are reflected in the design of the form and exterior of commercial complexes. The facades and decorations used in commercial complexes represent the use of modern technology and a medium for conveying the intended messages by the brand owners. The results also show that before the 2010s, the strategies for attracting visitors to commercial complexes were more of pretenses of being up-to-date, while in the 2010s, the roles of design and construction in branding of Tehran’s commercial complexes are almost synchronous with the world, and the design of commercial complexes with distinctive shells and decorations has grown.