Interview about Porch Multifunctional Space, winner of the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award 2025
The designers faced a difficult task of blending traditional Iranian elements with the modern aesthetic, but still made it possible to create harmony in this multifunctional space. Gray and dark blue palettes were used together with naked finishes to create a modern background. While the old wooden floors were carefully preserved, they skillfully integrated modern looking mirrors and arches, which are a combination of traditional and contemporary architectural styles.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsI used the shape of traditional Iranian arches in a simpler, modern way. This helped me keep the feeling of the old architecture while making the space useful and fresh for today’s needs.
I chose wood because it adds warmth and a natural feel to the space, while also being a sustainable material. The smart home systems were added to make the space more efficient and comfortable. Together, they create a modern, eco-friendly environment that’s easy and pleasant to use every day.
The furniture was designed to match the space — both in function and style. I started by looking at how the space would be used daily, then shaped each piece to serve multiple purposes while keeping the clean lines of modern design. At the same time, I added subtle touches inspired by traditional forms to keep a connection to Iranian heritage. Each piece was carefully crafted to feel like a natural part of the architecture
One key decision was to keep the soul of the original house — especially its traditional arches and spatial rhythm — while opening it up for new functions. I focused on creating flexible areas that could support work, meetings, and creativity without losing the warmth of a home. Choosing natural materials and soft transitions helped bridge the old and new, turning the space into a studio that feels both familiar and fresh.
I chose gray and dark blue for their calm, modern feel. These colors create a quiet background that lets the architecture and materials stand out. The raw finishes add honesty and texture, making the space feel real and grounded. Together, they support the balance between tradition and modern life that I wanted to achieve.
The smart systems add comfort and ease without changing the traditional look. They help control light, air, and privacy smoothly, so the space feels modern and convenient while still honoring its original architecture.
Preserving the old wooden floors was important to keep the history and character of the space. The challenge was making sure the modern mirrors and arches fit naturally without clashing. This mix created a unique balance, allowing the old and new elements to complement each other and add warmth and depth to the space.
Keeping the old wooden floors meant respecting their history and character, which was important to me. The challenge was to blend them with modern elements like mirrors and arches without making the space feel disconnected. This mix created a unique balance where old and new support each other, adding depth and warmth to the space.
My background in both interior and industrial design helps me see projects from different angles — focusing on how spaces feel and how objects work. This mix lets me create furniture and spaces that are both practical and beautiful, like in Porch Multifunctional Space where every detail serves a purpose and connects to the overall design.
I hope this project shows how traditional Iranian design can live alongside modern needs in a meaningful way. By blending old and new thoughtfully, Porch Multifunctional Space can inspire others to respect heritage while creating fresh, functional interiors that fit today’s lifestyle.
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