Interview about Shamim Polymer Factory, winner of the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award 2021
The plant needs to maintain three programs including production facility and lab and office. The lack of defined functional programs in these types of projects is the reasons for their unpleasant spatial quality. This project seeks to solve this problem by utilizing circulation elements to divide unrelated programs. The design of the building revolves around two void spaces. These void spaces create the opportunity for separating functionally unrelated spaces. At the same time acts as a middle courtyard where every part of the building is connected with each other.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design Detailsmerely a formal or decorative gesture; rather, it is a conscious attempt to rethink the relationship between function, aesthetics, and cultural memory within an industrial context. The use of the central courtyard and cruciform axes—archetypes rooted in Iranian architecture, particularly in houses and caravanserais—has been reinterpreted here to simultaneously address the operational needs of a modern factory and to convey a cultural code of gathering, centrality, and cosmic order.Functionally, the cruciform layout enables an efficient organization of the factory’s various activities around a central court—an open space that acts as both a visual anchor and a circulation hub. This stands in contrast to the linear, purely utilitarian models often found in contemporary industrial design, which typically sever ties with the cultural and spatial contexts of their surroundings. In this sense, adopting this pattern represents a form of resistance against the modernist separation of form from context and collective memory.Culturally, the reimagining of the central courtyard—as a space of ventilation, collectivity, and stillness—serves as a symbolic revival of the inward-oriented spatial order that defines Iranian architecture. But this revival is not a reproduction of tradition; it is a contemporary translation that avoids falling into decorative traditionalism. It aims instead to bridge the divide between rootless industrial technologies and contextually grounded spatial narratives.Ultimately, this synthesis of courtyard typology and cruciform geometry with structural logic and industrial materials does more than optimize functionality—it embeds workers and visitors within a spatial narrative of place, history, and identity. It represents an effort to reestablish a dialogue between architecture and culture, even in typologies that are often devoid of such conversation.
the role of emptiness in contemporary architecture—especially within industrial environments that are typically defined by density and operational accumulation. In this project, the void is not merely a functional gap; it acts as a spatial mediator that enables both planned separation of programs and a fluid sense of continuity between different work units.In traditional Iranian architecture, the “middle space” (miyan-dar) is never an empty, meaningless zone—it is a space for pause, transition, and perceptual recalibration. This project draws critically from that conceptual heritage to propose an alternative to the often dehumanized nature of industrial environments, which tend to exclude lived experience in favor of pure efficiency.The void spaces in Shamim Factory establish soft and flexible thresholds between industrial, administrative, and service areas. Simultaneously, they allow for natural ventilation, daylight penetration, and lateral circulation. These qualities not only improve operational efficiency but also enhance the everyday experience of workers. In such a spatial framework, factory labor transcends mere mechanical repetition and becomes part of a breathable, multi-layered, and human-centered environment.Ultimately, the core inspiration for this approach lies in a critique of the production-driven and quantifying view of space that dominates industrial architecture. In this project, voids are not residual elements filling in structural gaps—they are generative components that define spatial quality and revive the human experience within the realm of production.
The emphasis on exposed materials in the Shamim Polymer Factory project, such as concrete, steel, and prefabricated elements, reflects a philosophy that can be described as "material honesty"—a philosophy that remains faithful to industrial aesthetics while integrating principles of sustainability and functional efficiency in modern design.From an environmental perspective, choosing materials that are exposed and easy to maintain, like concrete and steel, reduces the need for repeated coatings and painting; this not only lowers the consumption of chemicals and energy but also extends the lifespan of the materials. Prefabricated components further contribute to reducing environmental impact by minimizing on-site waste and allowing better quality control.Aesthetically, the visibility of these materials emphasizes "structural clarity" and "transparency of production processes," contrasting with conventional industrial architectures that often attempt to conceal structural and functional elements. This approach not only enhances the visual authenticity of the project but also conveys a sense of "truth" and "resilience" to its users.Ultimately, selecting these materials with maintenance ease and repairability in mind facilitates the functional demands of an industrial facility and enables sustainable economic operation over the long term. Thus, the material approach is not merely an aesthetic choice but a core part of the project’s strategy to integrate performance, durability, and environmental responsibility.
The courtyard design in the Shamim Polymer Factory project goes beyond aesthetic requirements; it represents a human-centered and psychological strategy to enhance the environmental quality for the factory workers. The interplay of light and shadow in these spaces, combined with the thoughtful integration of green areas, creates a balanced and calming environment that significantly mitigates the stresses associated with industrial work.Natural light, especially as it filters into the interior through courtyard openings, not only provides adequate illumination but also regulates biological rhythms and natural cycles—a scientifically proven factor positively impacting mental health. Shadows play a key role in creating spatial contrast and depth, offering secluded and cozy corners for short breaks and mental respite.Although limited in scope within the factory, the presence of greenery and natural elements strengthens a sense of belonging and tranquility, reducing the monotony typical of industrial settings. This leads to increased job satisfaction and enhanced productivity.From a theoretical perspective, this approach reflects a return to concepts such as “healing architecture” and “empathetic design,” where the built environment plays a critical role in psychological restoration. Thus, Shamim Factory is not merely a production space but a living, human environment that prioritizes the psychological well-being of its inhabitants.
The design process of the Shamim Polymer Factory faced a fundamental challenge: how to reconcile the complex and stringent technical requirements of polymer manufacturing with the aspirational goal of creating engaging and human-centered work environments. The answer lies in an approach that was both analytical and experiential throughout the project lifecycle.Initially, continuous collaboration with technical and engineering teams played a key role in precisely understanding the functional needs and workflow patterns. This technical partnership enabled the organization of the factory space in a way that ensured safety, production efficiency, and compliance with technical specifications without compromise.Simultaneously, special attention was given to the psychological and social needs of the workforce during the design process. Unlike many industrial spaces that focus solely on function, Shamim Factory aimed to create a humanized environment with identity, employing spatial strategies such as a central courtyard, open spaces, and natural light wells. These elements served as opportunities for social interaction, rest, and energy restoration.The balance between the technical and human domains was achieved through flexible design, the use of intermediary spaces, and an integrated approach to production and administrative areas. Consequently, Shamim Factory exemplifies industrial architecture that not only prioritizes manufacturing performance but also values work quality of life and human motivation.
The spatial organization of Shamim Polymer Factory, by eliminating traditional walls and employing open and semi-open design strategies, exemplifies innovative architecture in industrial environments that simultaneously emphasizes functional separation and enhanced collaboration. This approach draws on contemporary design principles such as multipurpose and flexible spaces to maintain work boundaries while enabling free flow of information and interaction between departments.Instead of fixed walls, the use of intermediary spaces—such as internal courtyards, open and semi-open corridors, and flexible furniture—creates boundaries that are gradual and fluid rather than rigid. This spatial dynamism facilitates informal communication and improves team coordination, thereby increasing workflow efficiency.From a workflow perspective, this organization reduces time and costs associated with information transfer between departments and facilitates multidisciplinary project collaboration. In effect, removing traditional physical barriers enables the creation of an open and participatory organizational culture, which is vital in modern industries.Therefore, this spatial model not only supports technical functionalities but also fosters a more human-centered, communicative, and cohesive work environment, ultimately leading to enhanced quality and innovation in production.
In the design of the Shamim Polymer Factory, particular attention was paid to Iran’s climatic conditions, especially the intense summer heat and arid air, transforming these environmental challenges into opportunities to create an efficient and sustainable space. The integration of indigenous architectural principles and local patterns alongside contemporary technologies achieved a balance between industrial needs and environmental conditions.A key element is the use of a central courtyard and semi-covered open spaces, which facilitate natural ventilation and help reduce indoor temperatures. These areas promote cross-ventilation, providing natural cooling that reduces reliance on mechanical systems and enhances thermal comfort for the workers.Furthermore, the materials employed in the project, such as concrete and steel with light-colored surfaces, aid in minimizing heat absorption while ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. Shading devices and controlled skylights limit direct solar radiation and provide soft natural lighting, maintaining illumination without increasing indoor heat.Additionally, the building’s orientation and spatial arrangement were carefully designed to maximize natural light utilization without generating excessive heat. These strategies not only support industrial functionality but also contribute positively to the environmental sustainability of the project.Ultimately, this precise combination of vernacular architectural knowledge and modern technology renders Shamim Polymer Factory an exemplary case of climate-responsive industrial architecture in Iran, where efficiency and sustainability coexist harmoniously.
The research methodology behind the Shamim Polymer Factory project was founded on a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches, enabling a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the technical, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions of the project. This methodological integration allowed us to move beyond mere numerical data to fully understand the complex layers influencing the design.On the quantitative side, detailed assessments of performance indicators such as workflow patterns, safety standards, energy consumption, and technical production parameters provided a solid foundation for efficient and optimized design. These data helped identify constraints and opportunities for precise planning.On the qualitative side, methods included user interviews, field observations, and cultural and climatic analyses, which enriched our understanding of human needs, daily experiences of workers, and the cultural identity of the site. This qualitative insight guided us toward human-centered, sustainable design solutions aligned with the local context.The integration of these two approaches facilitated evidence-based design decisions that ensured not only technical functionality but also the creation of dynamic, flexible, and contextually connected spaces. This comprehensive analysis led to innovations in spatial organization, material usage, and the creation of interactive and environmentally responsive environments, which are hallmark features of the Shamim Polymer Factory.
The evolution of the Shamim Polymer Factory from concept to completion between 2019 and 2020 encountered a series of unexpected challenges, each playing a decisive role in shaping the final form and functionality of the project. One of the most significant challenges was the economic sanctions and resulting difficulties in sourcing raw materials, which directly influenced the choice of construction materials and methods.These constraints compelled us to adopt a flexible and creative approach, utilizing local and prefabricated materials that not only reduced costs but also expedited construction. This approach led to the emergence of a more honest and industrial architectural language, while maintaining compatibility with the local identity.Another major challenge involved the complex coordination between technical, engineering, and architectural teams during the global COVID-19 pandemic. This necessitated revisiting schedules, conducting online meetings, and increasing on-site supervision. These conditions enhanced communication processes, multidisciplinary collaboration, and fostered innovative management solutions.Ultimately, rather than hindering progress, these challenges became catalysts for rethinking design and project management, resulting in the creation of an efficient, flexible space tailored to difficult circumstances. Consequently, the Shamim Polymer Factory stands as a prime example of adaptability and innovation in contemporary industrial architecture in Iran.
The design of the Shamim Polymer Factory can be regarded as a milestone in Iran’s industrial architecture, transcending conventional models to address technical, environmental, and cultural issues in an innovative and human-centered manner. This project exemplifies the integration of traditional architecture with modern technologies and environmental sustainability, potentially paving a new path for the development of manufacturing facilities in Iran and the wider region.I envision that future industrial projects will increasingly emphasize flexible designs, climate responsiveness, and attention to human well-being. The Shamim Polymer Factory has demonstrated that it is possible to create spaces that not only optimize complex technical functions but also enhance workers’ quality of life and respect cultural and environmental contexts.Moreover, this project may inspire broader use of local materials, natural ventilation systems, and innovative spatial organization that reduce energy consumption and improve workers’ conditions, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the industry.Overall, the Shamim Polymer Factory can serve as a model for rethinking regional industrial architecture that not only meets production needs but also fosters humane and environmental considerations—an approach that could gradually establish a new standard within the industry.
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