Designed by Tamouz Architecture and Construction Group, Sarv Office Building is a striking addition to the urban landscape of Tehran, Iran. This innovative office project addresses the complex interplay of opposing architectural concepts such as order versus disorder, openness versus closedness, and light versus shadow. Thanks to its thoughtful design, the building not only serves as a workspace, but also enhances the surrounding environment, making it an important structure within the community.
- Innovative Layered Design: The building features a layered façade that balances transparency and privacy, allowing natural light while protecting from harsh sunlight.
- Addressing Urban Challenges: Faced with a completely enclosed plot and limited natural light, the design creatively overcomes these constraints through its architectural form.
- Double Facade Layer: The facade consists of large transparent windows on the interior and a semi-transparent outer layer of wooden railings and steel planters, enhancing light regulation and privacy.
- Active Transition Space: The space between the facade layers serves as a semi-open zone that blends functional and aesthetic elements and encourages interaction with the urban environment.
- Continuity in Roof Design: The roof continues the theme of transparency, providing views and natural light while maintaining a sense of seclusion for the building’s occupants.
- Interior Organization for Collaboration: The interior layout prioritizes openness and interaction, with common spaces and service zones strategically located to encourage collaboration.
- Sustainable Practices: The building incorporates energy-efficient systems and materials that reduce the ecological footprint and promote a healthier indoor environment.
- Social Engagement: The design enhances social interaction and participation, positioning the Sarv Office Building as an important center within Tehran’s society.
- Architectural Response to Context: The project exemplifies how contemporary architecture can respond thoughtfully to urban challenges and at the same time enrich the surrounding environment.
Design Challenges
The journey to create the Sarv Office Building began with significant design challenges. First applying for façade approval in June 2017, the architectural team was faced with the constraints of a partially built form occupying 100% of the site. This limitation severely restricted natural light and ventilation opportunities, making it essential to find a creative solution that would allow airflow while maintaining the integrity of the building.
Given that the south façade is the only available source of natural light and ventilation, the design team had to develop a strategy to optimize this aspect while also meeting the aesthetic and functional requirements of the building.
Architectural Solution
To overcome the limitations imposed by the initial design, the architects rejected the idea of a flat facade. Instead, they envisioned a layered structure that acts as both a protective shell and an interactive interface with the surrounding environment. This innovative approach allows the south façade to effectively balance transparency and privacy by facilitating the entry of natural light while protecting the interior from harsh sunlight.
Layered Facade Concept
The design solution is characterized by two different but complementary layers:
- Inner Layer: This layer consists of large, transparent windows strategically placed to maximize light and visibility. The large glass surfaces create a sense of openness in the office spaces, allowing occupants to enjoy natural light while encouraging a connection to the outdoors.
- Outer Layer: The translucent screen consists of wooden railings and steel planters designed to filter light and air. This outer layer not only regulates the amount of sunlight entering the building, but also provides privacy for the occupants. The design of the outer layer creates a dynamic visual effect that changes throughout the day as light conditions change.
Balancing Transparency and Privacy
The space created between the two layers serves as a semi-open, active zone that blends functional and aesthetic elements. This transitional space softens the boundary between the building and the urban environment, encouraging interaction and participation. The layered facade effectively filters light and sound, creating a serene atmosphere inside and a vibrant connection with the outside.
Roof Design
The architectural theme of transparency and translucency extends to the rooftop, where the design continues to prioritize views and natural light. The rooftop space is designed to give a sense of seclusion while providing opportunities for relaxation and informal gatherings. This thoughtful design element enhances the overall experience for the building’s occupants, allowing them to enjoy the surrounding urban landscape from a tranquil vantage point.
Interior Organization
Inside, the principles of layering, openness and controlled interaction with the environment govern the organization of service zones, common areas and mechanical systems. The layout is designed to encourage collaboration and interaction between the building’s occupants, with common areas thoughtfully positioned to encourage social interaction. Each element of the design works in harmony to balance opposing forces, creating a cohesive structure that effectively addresses practical constraints while promoting a positive working environment.
Service Zones and Common Areas
The service areas are strategically separated from the more public spaces to maintain the functionality of the building without compromising the comfort of the users. Communal spaces are designed to be inviting and accessible, with comfortable seating and open layouts that invite collaboration and community interaction. The integration of natural elements such as greenery in steel planters further enhances the indoor environment, contributing to the well-being of the building’s occupants.
Sustainability Considerations
In addition to its aesthetic and functional features, the Sarv Office Building also reflects a commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates energy-efficient systems and materials that minimize the ecological footprint of the building. By maximizing natural light and ventilation and reducing reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling, the project contributes to a healthier indoor environment while promoting energy savings.
Social Impact
The Sarv Office Building is a testament to modern architectural practices that prioritize both functionality and social inclusion. By creating a space that encourages interaction, the design fosters a sense of belonging among its residents and improves the overall quality of life in the area. The building serves as a model for future developments in Tehran, demonstrating how architecture can thoughtfully respond to urban challenges while enriching the surrounding community.
The Sarv Office Building demonstrates a holistic approach to architecture, skillfully blending the need for natural light and ventilation with the realities of urban life. Through its innovative design and careful use of materials, it creates a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace that interacts effectively with its surroundings and contributes to the vibrancy of Tehran’s urban fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sarv Office Building?
Sarv Office Building is a contemporary office building in Tehran, Iran, designed by Tamouz Architecture & Construction Group. The building explores the complexities of architectural design, addressing themes such as order versus disorder and light versus shadow.
What challenges did the architects face during the design process?
The architects faced significant challenges due to the partially built form of the building, which occupies 100% of the plot. This limitation restricted natural light and ventilation options, and required the design to creatively address these constraints.
How does the facade of the Sarv Office Building work?
The facade consists of a layered structure that includes the following:
- Interior Layer: Large transparent windows for interiors that maximize light and visibility.
- Outer Layer: A semi-transparent screen of wooden railings and steel planters that filters light and air while providing privacy for the building’s occupants.
What is the purpose of the space between the facade layers?
The space between the two layers acts as a semi-open active zone that blends functional and aesthetic elements. It softens the transition between the building and the urban environment and encourages interaction with the surroundings.
How does the roof design contribute to the building?
The rooftop continues the themes of transparency and translucency, offering views and natural light while providing a sense of seclusion for the building’s occupants. It provides an inviting space for relaxation and informal meetings.
What principles guide the internal organization of the Sarv Office Building?
The internal layout is guided by the principles of layering, openness and controlled interaction with the environment. This design approach encourages collaboration and social inclusion among the building’s occupants.
How does the building address sustainability?
The Sarv Office Building reduces its ecological footprint by using energy-efficient systems and materials. By maximizing natural light and ventilation, it promotes a healthier indoor environment and reduces reliance on artificial lighting.
What is the importance of Sarv Office Building in the community?
The building positions itself as an important hub within Tehran society by increasing social interaction and engagement. Its design reflects a modern architectural response to urban challenges while enriching the surrounding environment.
Who are the key architects involved in the project?
The project was led by Hooman Tahamtanzadeh, Marjan Banaei and Hossein Salavaty Khoshghalb, with input from design team member Babak Abdolghafari.
Architect: Tamouz Architecture & Construction Group
Architectural Style: Contemporary Architecture with Layered facade Design
Year: 2024
Location: Tehran, Iran
