Exploring Terraced Architecture Design in Iran: A Deep Dive into Koohravan Villa

The concept of terraced architecture is not new, but its application in the Koohravan Villa by HYPERTEXT ARCHITECTURE STUDIO in Khosrovan, Iran, redefines its potential. Completed in 2023, this 650 m² masterpiece showcases how modern design can harmonize with challenging terrains, offering insights into terraced architecture design in Iran.

The Challenge of Terrain and the Ingenious Response

The Unique Site of Koohravan Villa

Nestled on the slopes of "Zarin Kooh," Koohravan Villa occupies a site adjacent to protected natural resource lands, presenting a unique challenge for construction. The architects, Nastaran Nassiri and Hasan Asnavandi, embraced the site's steep terrain by adopting a terraced approach to the villa's design.

Terraced Layers as a Solution

The architects' strategy involved excavating the project ground into three stepped levels, striking an optimal balance between the natural landscape and the built environment. This method not only respects the maximum allowable height restrictions but also integrates the villa seamlessly into its surroundings.

Design Strategies and Spatial Organization

Optimizing Views and Privacy

Koohravan Villa's spatial arrangement is meticulously planned across its three floors. The lowest level houses the jacuzzi and parking, aligning with the courtyard for privacy and functionality. The middle and upper levels are respectively dedicated to private and public spaces, ensuring privacy while maximizing the breathtaking views available from the site.

Achieving Light and Spatial Quality

The challenge of ensuring sufficient light and views for all residential spaces led to an innovative solution: creating a void on the southeast side. This empty space not only connects the three levels through a main staircase, central courtyard, and atrium but also enhances the light and spatial quality of the villa.

Materiality and Dual Nature

Emphasizing the Connection between Land and Structure

A significant aspect of Koohravan Villa's design is its material selection. The use of stones from the excavation emphasizes the connection between the land and the structure. The choice of scratched white stones for the building further highlights the villa's dual nature, blending it with the terraced landscape.

A Benchmark for Terraced Architecture Design in Iran

Koohravan Villa by HYPERTEXT ARCHITECTURE STUDIO stands as a benchmark in terraced architecture design in Iran. It exemplifies how architects can respond creatively to the challenges of terrain and regulation, crafting spaces that are both innovative and harmonious with their natural surroundings.

All the photographs are work of Ali Mirshafi