Interview about Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel, winner of the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award 2024
The interior merges the old with the new, elements meet functionality. The interior utilizes the existing brickwork and arched ceilings to frame a space that feels open yet intimate. Furnishings are selected for comfort and practicality, with a restrained palette that draws attention to the building’s original features. Lighting is strategically placed to highlight the textures and form of the space without overwhelming it. This design approach allows the history of the structure to stand at the forefront, providing a serene backdrop for modern living.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsIn Delbar Khaneh, we approached preservation as a dialogue between past and present. Authentic elements like vaulted ceilings and traditional plasterwork were carefully restored, while contemporary luxuries, such as custom glass baths and ambient lighting, were subtly introduced to complement the historical framework. By harmonizing these aspects, we retained the soul of the Afshar era while ensuring modern comfort, achieving an equilibrium of authenticity and innovation.
The narrative of love and loss became the soul of the design. Every space was crafted to evoke intimacy and connection. For example, the Burnt Room symbolizes renewal through its bold palette, while the Narenjestan Room creates a serene, dreamlike atmosphere. By blending traditional crafts with soft lighting and fluid forms, we sought to immerse guests in an emotional journey that echoes the poetic beauty of Yazd’s culture.
Collaborating with Yazd’s artisans was pivotal. The Suzani textiles in the Shah Neshin Room and the hand-carved wooden lattices reflect centuries-old craftsmanship. The mirror work in the New Shah Neshin Room, modernized with geometric patterns, honors a Persian tradition while introducing a contemporary aesthetic. These partnerships enriched the project with authenticity and cultural depth, making each detail a tribute to Yazd’s heritage.
Our lighting strategy emphasized interplay between natural and artificial light. Skylights and latticed windows illuminate spaces organically, while modern fixtures enhance the historic textures. Ambient lighting fosters intimacy, while accent lights highlight details like mirror work, creating a layered narrative of light that merges function with emotion.
The cypress tree, a symbol of resilience in Persian culture, guided our designs. We abstracted its form into minimalist, modern furniture that fits the hotel’s dual identity. For example, the full-length mirror’s silhouette echoes the cypress, blending traditional symbolism with modern functionality. Each piece reflects local heritage while meeting contemporary aesthetic and ergonomic standards.
We emphasized a journey-like spatial experience, ensuring pathways felt natural and intuitive. By maintaining the courtyard as the heart of the structure, we allowed rooms to flow seamlessly around it, preserving the intimacy of a traditional Persian home. Spatial layering, strategic openings, and adaptive use of light guided guests to explore while ensuring every corner retained its charm.
One surprising discovery was the ingenuity of traditional Yazdi cooling systems, which inspired modern adaptations in the project’s ventilation design. Another was the use of plaster reliefs as storytelling elements, leading us to incorporate narrative-driven details, such as geometric mirror mosaics that symbolize unity and fragmentation. These insights allowed us to innovate while respecting tradition.
We prioritized textiles that conveyed a sense of warmth and history. Suzani patterns were chosen for their intricate storytelling, echoing the project’s romantic roots. These textiles were paired with minimalist furniture to balance tradition and modernity, offering guests a tactile connection to Yazd’s artisanal legacy while enhancing comfort and visual depth.
We devised solutions like embedding modern HVAC systems within historic walls and using modular fixtures to minimize structural alterations. Features like custom glass baths and hidden wiring ensured modern functionality while respecting the building's integrity. These innovations preserve heritage while meeting hospitality standards.
Delbar Khaneh serves as a blueprint for merging historical preservation with modern needs. By showcasing the value of local craftsmanship and adaptive design, it highlights how cultural heritage can be reinterpreted for contemporary use. I hope it inspires a new generation of architects to approach preservation with innovation, ensuring Iran’s rich history remains alive in modern contexts.
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