Vast Gallery & Artist Residency by Persian Garden Studio

Located in the heart of Tehran's historic core, Vast Gallery & Artist Residency by Persian Garden Studio transforms a neglected 1930s structure into a vibrant cultural and residential hub. Spanning 1,360 square meters, the project breathes new life into a building originally comprising three residential floors and five retail stores, now repurposed into a dynamic blend of art galleries, residencies, and communal spaces.

Historical Foundation and Cultural Memory

Originally built during the first Pahlavi era, the building showcases the influence of early modernist architecture in Iran. Following the Islamic Revolution, like many other structures in central Tehran, it was abandoned. The property's original owners, Armenian musicians and piano virtuosos, once infused the neighborhood with daily artistic presence. Their legacy of public engagement through nearby retail spaces inspired the new programmatic direction of the revitalized complex.

Adaptive Reuse and Structural Interventions

To ensure safety and functionality, extensive structural reinforcements were carried out, including steel jackets on columns, metal bracings, and beam reinforcements under vaulted ceilings. The existing layout was transformed: two large residential units were converted into six compact residencies with the addition of office space, while the former storefronts were adapted into a cafe, pastry shop, and gift stores. These changes actively encourage foot traffic and interaction with local residents.

Layered Circulation and Rooftop Expansion

One of the most significant interventions was the addition of a rooftop gallery space. A new vertical circulation path—comprising stairs and bridges—was introduced in the courtyard, providing direct access to this gallery without disturbing the private access to residences. This design not only respects the building's original circulation but also activates the rooftop as a civic and cultural destination.

Materiality and Integration

The extension features a skeletal steel framework integrated with the existing structure. Concrete walls support the vertical additions, while carefully curated materials—such as exposed steel and locally sourced finishes—maintain harmony with the architectural character of the area. The design balances preservation with innovation, ensuring the site blends into the historic fabric while clearly marking its contemporary transformation.

Social Impact and Urban Renewal

Beyond architectural revitalization, the project aims to restore central Tehran's fading residential identity. By integrating housing with cultural amenities, it supports a return to neighborhood-based living. The gallery and artist residency serve as catalysts for creative exchange and community engagement, reactivating the local urban tissue.

All the photographs are works of Deed Studio, Kamyar Minoukadeh