Interview about Tamrin Space Cultural Center, winner of the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award 2025
The design approach focused on maximizing the potential of the existing building, aligning spatial divisions with the client's requirements, and enhancing functionality. By carefully evaluating access, views, and vistas, the layout offers fluid movement through different areas while providing spaces for pauses and interaction. Accessibility for disabled individuals, along with natural light and ventilation, were prioritized to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. The final design integrates aesthetics with functionality, offering a harmonious and versatile space.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsOne of the primary goals in the renovation of the Tamrin Space was to preserve the authenticity of the original structure with minimal intervention. However, the introduction of a full-height vertical void with a glass floor and glass handrail was a carefully considered solution to a key challenge: the lack of natural light in many interior areas. This light well channels daylight deep into the lower levels, significantly reducing reliance on artificial lighting and creating a visual and spatial connection between floors. Through this subtle yet purposeful intervention, the overall spatial quality and user experience were greatly enhanced—without compromising the building’s original character.
Our design philosophy for the Tamrin Space was deeply rooted in respecting the building’s historical legacy while adapting it to meet contemporary needs. Features such as the soot-stained bricks and vaulted ceilings are not merely architectural details; they are tangible narratives that embody the building’s stories and character.At first glance, the old soot-blackened cavities—originally designed to channel smoke from oil heaters—might have seemed like elements to be concealed. However, by deliberately exposing them, we revealed a lesser-known part of the building’s history and heritage. Preserving and showcasing these features was essential to creating an authentic atmosphere that invites visitors to connect with the cultural legacy embedded within the space.This connection to the past enriches the cultural experience by creating a layered environment where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. It allows users to feel a sense of continuity and respect for tradition while engaging with the innovative and dynamic functions of the restored center. In this way, the building becomes a living museum—a place where memory, culture, and contemporary creativity intersect and inspire.
Given that the project is located in Tehran—a city crisscrossed by numerous active earthquake faults—ensuring the building’s future resilience was paramount in breathing new life into this historic structure. Structural integrity was therefore a key focus of the restoration.The integration of shear walls and a unified foundation system addressed seismic and load-bearing demands effectively, securing the building’s longevity and safety. Shear walls provide critical lateral stability against seismic forces, while the unified foundation evenly distributes loads, minimizing differential settlement and structural stress.Importantly, special attention was paid to the architectural expression of these structural elements. Most of the new concrete shear walls, as well as many of the steel beams and columns, were deliberately left exposed, harmonizing engineering functionality with the building’s aesthetic. This careful integration preserved the openness and fluidity of the interior spaces, striking a balance between rigorous engineering and artistic vision.
Achieving this balance was made possible through numerous collaborative sessions between the design team and the client. By deeply understanding the spirit of the activities the client intended to host, as well as the artistic approaches of the musicians and theater practitioners involved, we tailored the design accordingly.Notably, the client and project team are followers of Jerzy Grotowski’s theater methodology and admirers of John Cage’s musical philosophy—both of which emphasize raw, authentic expression often practiced in intimate, historically rich spaces. This artistic ethos perfectly aligned with the character of the historic building, reinforcing the decision to preserve its original fabric and atmosphere.Thus, rather than imposing modern performance conventions that might clash with the building’s heritage, we embraced an approach that allowed the building’s aged textures and spatial qualities to enhance the experiential authenticity of performances. This synergy between the artistic philosophies of Grotowski and Cage and the historic environment elevated the cultural and sensory experience for both performers and audiences.
As mentioned earlier, the most important principle in the restoration of this building was to intervene as minimally as possible, preserving the essence and inherent character of the original structure. Therefore, it was crucial not to impose a variety of new and contrasting materials onto the building.The design of the plaster elements emerged naturally from this philosophy. Rather than introducing foreign or disparate materials, these elements were crafted to extend organically from the existing walls, maintaining material continuity and visual harmony. This restrained approach respects the building’s authenticity and allows new interventions to coexist seamlessly with the historic fabric, reinforcing the core identity of the Tamrin Space.
In approaching this project, we embraced a dual responsibility for the building itself. Internally, the structure had to continue presenting itself as an authentic Iranian house within the urban context, preserving its original character and essence. This intrinsic mission guided us to maintain the architectural integrity and spirit of the house.Externally, the building’s transformation into a cultural and artistic center called for establishing a meaningful connection between this historic house and its surrounding environment—positioned as a new node within Tehran’s significant cultural district. The center needed to engage in a dynamic dialogue with other cultural landmarks nearby, weaving itself into the fabric of this vibrant artistic corridor.Moreover, by creating visual and conceptual links to the neighboring spaces, the center becomes part of a larger cultural narrative, inviting audiences and artists to experience a diverse spectrum of artistic expressions within a cohesive urban setting. In summary, the thriving artistic ecosystem not only inspired our architectural language but also enriched the programmatic diversity of Tamrin Space.
The garden serves as the initial point of encounter with the project; as visitors enter the building, they are greeted in the entry foyer by a solitary tree beside a large stone. This simple and natural arrangement creates a Zen-like atmosphere, where silence and tranquility are palpably felt. It is as if the light, introduced through the newly created void, finds its beautiful and meaningful culmination in this garden.This green oasis at the heart of the building offers a moment of calm and reflection, inviting both visitors and artists to reconnect with nature amidst the urban and architectural environment. The garden is not only a visual focal point but also a bridge between nature and the built form, breathing new life into the cultural and artistic atmosphere of the center. It creates a profound and poetic experience that intertwines human presence, art, and nature.
Balancing accessibility for people with disabilities and preserving the historical character of Tamrin Space Cultural Center was a significant challenge. Our goal was to ensure full participation and presence of all individuals, especially those with disabilities, without compromising the building’s heritage.Through careful analysis of the building’s structure and circulation paths, we integrated ramps and widened doorways in locations that minimized disruption while maintaining the architectural integrity. Materials and design details were chosen to harmonize with the historic elements, avoiding any sense of intrusive additions.Our ultimate aim was to create a space where everyone, particularly people with disabilities, can comfortably and respectfully engage with the cultural and artistic experiences, while remaining connected to the building’s rich history.
Since this building is an authentic structure originally designed by an experienced architect, throughout our familiarization process and during the removal of old materials for structural reinforcement, we encountered unique surprises and beauties at every stage. From the brickwork of the vaulted ceilings revealed beneath the plaster, to the soot-stained risers, each element told a story.In some parts of the walls, we discovered bricks bearing the manufacturer’s brand name etched some 80 years ago, which we showcased prominently within a dedicated frame. Additionally, from the floor of the southern courtyard building—a completely dilapidated structure—we uncovered old cement boards featuring diverse and intricate patterns. These were carefully repurposed in the flooring of the first-floor rehearsal hall, preserving a tangible link to the building’s rich history.
The success of Tamrin Space, honored with the Bronze A’ Design Award, serves as a meaningful example of how historical preservation and modern adaptation can coexist harmoniously. This project demonstrates that respecting the authentic character and heritage of a building does not hinder its functionality but rather enriches the cultural and social value it offers to the community.The honor of receiving a prestigious award like the A’ Design Award for this building can also serve as a powerful motivation for other developers and clients. It shows that investing in thoughtful restoration and sensitive adaptation not only preserves heritage but can also achieve recognition and success on an international level.I envision Tamrin Space inspiring future restoration projects in Tehran’s cultural district by highlighting the importance of thoughtful integration—where innovative design solutions meet preservation ethics. It encourages architects and developers to approach historic buildings not just as relics of the past, but as living entities that can be revitalized to serve contemporary artistic and cultural needs.
Dive into a world of design excellence with our curated highlights. Each feature showcases outstanding creativity, innovation, and impact from the design world. Discover inspiration and learn more about these incredible achievements.
