Abra Garden House: A Harmonious Retreat Amidst the Highlands of Maku

The Abra Garden House, located in the Maku Free Zone in the highlands of Qarah Khach, Iran, is an architectural masterpiece designed by White Cube Atelier. This retreat, nestled within pristine nature and untouched landscapes, offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of urban life. With its minimalistic design, the house provides both tranquility and functionality, blending seamlessly with the environment.

Location and Concept: A Tranquil Escape from Urban Life

The Abra Garden House is located in the non-urban setting of Maku Free Zone, surrounded by the serene highlands of Qarah Khach. The site is characterized by its mysterious landscapes, fog, and clouds, which inspired the design of the house. The architects envisioned a space that offers a retreat from the fast-paced rhythm of city life, encouraging relaxation and rejuvenation in the embrace of nature.

The design concept of the house draws from the architects’ childhood memories and the desire to create a structure that floats "like a white cloud" between the sky and the earth. This ethereal quality adds a layer of intrigue and invites passers-by and visitors to experience the house in a unique way.

Efficient Design: Maximizing Space on a Limited Footprint

One of the primary challenges faced during the design process was the limited gross area allowed for the project, a constraint typical of garden houses in agricultural zones. To comply with these regulations, the architects focused on creating an efficient layout that would maximize the use of space while maintaining a sense of openness and comfort.

The house follows a 4×5 square grid, with cantilevers extending on all sides, creating a larger platform of 6×6 meters. The design strategy ensures that the house stays within the area limitations while offering the necessary spaces for living and relaxation.

Key Features:

• Limited gross area: Designed within the constraints of local regulations.
• Efficient space utilization: Maximizing the functional area without compromising on the experience.
• Cantilevered structure: Expanding the platform for greater spatial freedom.

Four Levels of Living: Basement, Living Room, Resting Space, and Observation Deck

The Abra Garden House is organized into four distinct levels, each serving a unique purpose:

1. Basement – Provides storage and utility space.
2. Living Room – A central hub for daily activities, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Resting Space – Designed for relaxation and quiet contemplation, this level ensures comfort and tranquility.
4. Attic/Observation Deck – A lookout area that offers panoramic views of the highland surroundings, perfect for appreciating the natural beauty of the location.

The layered approach not only optimizes the use of space but also creates a dynamic interaction between the interior and exterior environments.

Natural Materials and Sustainability

White Cube Atelier emphasized the use of natural materials in the construction of Abra Garden House. The materials were selected not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their environmental benefits. Basalt stone, used in the house’s foundation and walls, complements the landscape’s natural textures, while Palermo ceramic adds warmth and elegance to the interior spaces. These materials align with the project’s philosophy of sustainability and minimal environmental impact.

The integration of large windows throughout the design allows for abundant natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The strategic placement of openings also ensures optimal ventilation, contributing to the house’s energy efficiency.

Architectural Aesthetics: Minimalism and Elegance

The architectural form of Abra Garden House is rooted in minimalist design principles. Clean lines, simple shapes, and a white exterior create a timeless aesthetic that emphasizes the surrounding natural environment rather than competing with it. The house’s floating appearance is achieved through the use of cantilevered structures, which enhance the sense of weightlessness and add a modern touch to the traditional garden house design.

Features of the Design:

• Minimalist architecture: Simple, clean lines and neutral tones.
• Floating form: A cantilevered structure that creates a sense of suspension.
• Seamless integration with nature: The house is designed to blend harmoniously with its surroundings.

The Relationship Between Architecture and Nature

The design of Abra Garden House goes beyond the mere combination of form and volume. It seeks to establish a deep relationship between architecture and the environment, fostering a profound connection between the building and its occupants. The house’s strategic design elements, such as the cantilevers and expansive windows, ensure that visitors constantly feel connected to the stunning natural landscape.

This interaction between the built environment and nature is a central theme in the architecture of White Cube Atelier. The house is not only a physical structure but also an experience that immerses residents in the beauty and tranquility of the highlands of Maku.

All Photographs are work of :Parham Taghioff