APARTMENT Da01 (UNBUILT)

Designed and Represented by Mohammad Moezzi in 2018, Prepared for Construction by NET Architects, 2019, Mashhad, Iran.

In contemporary Iranian architecture, residential apartments have replaced the traditional courtyard houses that once defined urban living. These homes, rooted in regionalism, prioritized openness, privacy, and a connection to nature. However, modernism, imposed through rapid urbanization, has fragmented this spatial logic. Dense, standardized apartment blocks often lack communal spaces, resulting in isolation and disconnection.

In this project, I sought to recreate the spatial qualities of Iranian houses within a modern apartment typology. The design reflects the essence of inward-oriented architecture, where open spaces are thoughtfully carved into the structure, echoing the traditional bagh (Persian garden) and courtyard. Inspired by the spatial triangle of kitchen, yard, and living room in historic homes, the central terrace serves as a semi-enclosed heart of the building, capturing southern light while maintaining privacy.

To respond to modern challenges like climate coordination and neighborhood noise, I minimized unnecessary windows and introduced a grid of openings on the façade. This grid reduces heat gain, organizes chaotic terrace experiences, and fosters a balance between openness and enclosure qualities inherent to Iranian architecture.

Brick, a material deeply tied to Iran’s architectural identity, was used to unify the build- ing aesthetically and functionally. Beyond its visual richness, brick’s thermal properties help moderate the harsh climate, ensuring sustainability and resilience.

This project bridges the tension between regional traditions and imposed modernity, reintroducing qualities of openness, light, and shared spaces within a contemporary context. It celebrates local materials and spatial heritage while redefining urban living for modern Iranian families, restoring a sense of community and continuity in the built environment.