Architectural Expansion Meets Nature in Tehran’s Outskirts
On the outskirts of Tehran, a weekend villa designed by architect Firouz Firouz has evolved into a permanent residence. ZAV Architects expanded the home by acquiring three surrounding orchard plots, seamlessly integrating the natural landscape with innovative architecture. The result is an embodiment of their vibrant approach, breathing new life into the traditional villa setting.
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The original 200-square-meter villa has been transformed through a series of vaulted extensions, creating a harmonious blend of structure and nature. These additions reflect a dynamic interplay, appearing as if the building itself is stretching its limbs into the orchard.
Design and Materials Blend Tradition with Modernity
The team of ZAV Architects conceptualizes the extension as a graft on the existing structure, with curved vaults emerging from the central volume. This architectural innovation allows sunlight to filter through overlapping spaces, creating a unique play of light and shadow. Their vibrant architectural enhancements redefine the relationship between interior and exterior, offering a new perspective on residential design.
Inside, the use of curved ceilings, skylights, and arched openings enhances the space’s fluidity. The architecture contrasts stark masonry with soft, sweeping curves, achieved by local craftsmanship and low-tech materials, highlighting their vibrant creativity.
Embracing the Orchard with ZAV Architects’ Vibrant Vision
The expansion thoughtfully considers the surrounding landscape. New rooms occupy treeless clearings, preserving the orchard. This creates an immersive domestic journey where the line between house and garden blurs.
The original villa, terracotta in hue, maintains its prominence while the new additions transition playfully into pink and blue. This color evolution provides a visual timeline of the building’s growth and transformation, showcasing their vibrant use of color and space.
Visual Symbiosis of Architecture and Environment
The design by ZAV Architects positions new elements within open spaces, allowing natural elements to penetrate living areas. The vaulted structures draw in daylight, enhancing the blue-toned interiors.
Each curved addition brings a unique perspective, showcasing the marriage of architectural innovation and nature’s beauty. The design ethos truly shines here, embodying the concept of modern living harmoniously intertwined with the environment.
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Project Details
- Name: Gelareh House
- Architect: ZAV Architects
- Location: Kuhsar, Iran
- Area: 200 square meters
- Year: 2025
- Photography: © Parham Taghioff, Persia Photography Center
- Architect of Existing Building: Firouz Firouz
- Design Team: Mohamadreza Ghodousi, Fatemeh Rezaei, Golnaz Bahrami, Mahmoud Ganji, Mahdi Rabei, Sheila Ehsaei, Parisa Mohammadi, Mahsa Faal, Ali Chaichian
- Contractor: EOT
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
Who expanded the villa near Tehran?
ZAV Architects expanded the villa by acquiring three surrounding orchard plots, integrating the natural landscape with innovative architecture.
How did the architecture blend tradition with modernity?
ZAV Architects used curved vaults emerging from the central volume, allowing sunlight to filter through overlapping spaces and creating a play of light and shadow, contrasting stark masonry with soft curves.
What is the color scheme used in the villa’s expansion?
The original villa is terracotta in hue, with the new additions transitioning into playful pink and blue, creating a visual timeline of growth and transformation.