Narbon Villa by Gera Studio Architects: A Fusion of Heritage and Modernity

A Contemporary Retreat in Kerman’s Historic Landscape

Nestled within a lush pomegranate orchard in Kerman, Iran, Narbon Villa by Gera Studio Architects redefines the relationship between architecture and nature. Designed by Hossein Namazi, the residence seamlessly integrates traditional Persian architecture with modern design principles, creating a timeless sanctuary.

Preserving History Through Architectural Innovation

At the heart of the design philosophy is the preservation of the garden’s original thatched walls, maintaining the historical texture of the site while incorporating a secondary wall to establish new spatial boundaries. By strategically inserting a glass entrance, the design invites both residents and passersby to engage with the property’s rich natural elements, including ancient sycamore trees and a historic watercourse leading to agricultural lands.

Sunken Courtyard: A Climate-Responsive Feature

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a sunken courtyard, a thoughtful design element that provides natural cooling during Kerman’s hot summers. This traditional yet modern approach enhances the indoor-outdoor connection, allowing light, air, and shade to shape the experience throughout the day.

Sky Rifts: Merging Architecture with the Elements

One of the villa’s most striking features is its "sky rifts", two deep vertical openings that not only capture framed views of the sky but also optimize natural ventilation by channeling wind into the living spaces. These architectural voids dynamically transform the villa’s ambiance as sunlight and shadows shift throughout the day. The concept draws inspiration from Persian wind towers (Badgirs), integrating passive cooling strategies into a contemporary framework.

Multi-Level Rooftop: A Space for Community & Reflection

The second sky rift leads visitors to the multi-level rooftop, where shaded spaces created by elongated walls offer relief from the sun. Beyond their climatic function, these elevated terraces provide a unique setting for stargazing, social gatherings, and open-air cinema nights, reinventing the traditional Persian roof as an active living space.

Brickwork & Texture: A Story of Emotion and Materiality

Narbon Villa’s cracked brick core serves as a metaphorical and structural element, weaving a narrative of time, memory, and materiality. The interplay of solid and void, light and shadow, fosters an immersive spatial experience that evolves throughout the day, reinforcing the connection between built form and natural surroundings.

A Pavilion Rooted in Climate & Culture

More than just a residence, Narbon Villa functions as a pavilion, echoing Iran’s rich architectural heritage while embracing modern sustainable design principles. By balancing privacy with openness, and tradition with innovation, the villa stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of past and future in architectural design.

All Photographs are works of Mohammad Hassan Ettefagh