In the bustling urban landscape of Tehran, a metropolis in perpetual motion, one of the prevailing architectural endeavors is the construction of five-story infill residential projects. Rooted in market dynamics, these structures often materialize solely on the foundation of the owner's trust in the developer, leaving architects with a limited role in these ongoing developments.
"5+1 Residence" exemplified this trend. The project adhered to urban regulations and standards, encompassing occupancy levels, permissible construction sites, density restrictions, stairwell enclosure zoning compliant with fire safety regulations, and others. In our pursuit to elevate architectural quality amidst the backdrop of profit-centric paradigms, we embarked on a mission to reimagine the essence of residential living within the Iranian context.
Traditionally, the notion of family and their needed space in "home" in Iran has shaped the current trend of houses over the decades. However, with the emergence of a new generation, a cultural shift has begun, altering the meaning of family, work, and 'home'. Thus, new needs in defining 'home' arise, which are often overlooked. Our ambition was to address this societal disconnect by crafting a new paradigm of dwelling – one that resonates with the intricacies of modern living and the need for an independent lifestyle.
Our design ethos pivoted on acknowledging the evolving dynamics of societal structures and embracing the multifaceted needs of contemporary lifestyles. The resultant architectural intervention – 'house-apartments' – blurs the delineations of conventional spatial boundaries, ushering in a realm of spatial fluidity and adaptability. Here, the erstwhile rigidity of functional spaces gives way to a transformative narrative. A dwelling seamlessly metamorphoses into a workspace, a sanctuary, or a gathering hub – a tableau in perpetual flux, mirroring the ebb and flow of life itself.
Situated amidst the urban fabric, the site is ensconced by a 12-meter alley to the east, neighboring courtyards to the north, and a labyrinth of old structures to the west and south. Although urban constraints provide abundant lighting from the east and south, the scenic beauty of these views is hindered by unsightly surroundings.
Undeterred by these visual impediments, we endeavored to orchestrate an architectural intervention that transcends the mundane and elevates the sensory experience both internally and externally. Rejecting conventional remedies such as wall treatments or decorative embellishments, we sought inspiration from the historical symbiosis of architecture and landscape.
Embracing the time-honored tradition of the Persian "bagh," we envisaged a verdant oasis – a living canvas that breathes life into the urban fabric. Our solution? A meticulously curated green envelope, crafted to withstand Tehran's climatic rigors. Rooted in sustainable principles, this verdant tapestry not only enlivens the architectural tableau but also serves as a visual buffer, shielding inhabitants from unsavory vistas and fostering a sense of tranquility within the urban milieu.
In essence, our architectural intervention transcends the confines of conventional design paradigms, offering a holistic vision of dwelling that harmonizes with the rhythms of contemporary life while forging a symbiotic relationship with the urban context.
