Nestled in the picturesque landscape of northern Iran, the CORNER Villa stands as a remarkable example of contemporary residential design. The initial vision for this dwelling centered on a simple pitched roof, a deliberate choice by the architects to harmonize with the local climate and surrounding terrain. This elongated structure was meticulously developed, taking into account crucial factors such as environmental conditions, topographic features, natural light, the functional needs of its occupants, and the breathtaking panoramic views stretching southward. The villa's facade is punctuated by strategically carved openings, which serve to create inviting covered entryways, spacious terraces, and a dramatic central void. This void is ingeniously traversed by a suspended staircase, forging a seamless connection between the inner courtyard, the verdant forested foothills, the open sky, and the functional rooftop spaces. While maintaining a discreet presence towards adjacent properties, the villa boldly unfolds towards the natural landscape through extensive glazing and a series of terraces. Its architectural identity is further defined by a striking white exterior, complemented by vibrant Persian-red accents within its carved spaces, all meticulously constructed with brick.
Situated within a residential enclave close to the Caspian Sea, the villa occupies a corner plot that initially posed certain design limitations. However, the southern aspect of the site graciously opens up to a vista of forested foothills, rugged rocky landscapes, and the expansive, often overcast, sky. The building's design adeptly addresses this unique setting with a horizontally extended volume oriented east-west, ensuring maximum exposure to the southern views. Concurrently, its dual-pitched roof system is a direct response to the prevailing local weather patterns and site characteristics. A section of the corner mass is thoughtfully subtracted to form a sheltered entrance, transforming what could have been a constraint into a defining architectural feature of the house. The design maintains a sense of privacy with minimal openings facing the neighboring residential complex, while the southern elevation is characterized by continuous glass panels and terraces that offer an unobstructed connection to the mountains and the sky.
A key programmatic requirement for the project was the integration of an accessible roof, which was masterfully incorporated into the villa's sloped volume. Portions of the structure are intentionally carved away on both sides: the southern opening invites abundant light and offers panoramic views, while the northern cut-out frames a more focused glimpse of the distant sea. A central void positioned at the southern edge ingeniously unifies the swimming pool, courtyard, the forested foothills, and the sky above. A gracefully suspended staircase spans this opening, establishing an unbroken path between the attic areas and the northern and southern roof spaces. The pristine white exterior of the villa creates a striking visual dialogue with the vibrant surrounding greenery, while the crimson-red voids introduce a bold and distinctive color accent against the otherwise subdued palette. This rich red hue extends into the interior central spaces, imbuing the recessed areas with a unique visual character. Inside, subtle green tones in the master suite's bathroom and entrance area subtly echo the surrounding vegetation, bringing nature indoors. The facade's brick construction is a deliberate choice, reflecting architect Nima Mirza Mohamadi's ongoing exploration of this traditional material and its versatile application in contemporary design. The project skillfully utilizes brick not only as a nod to local architectural heritage but also as a demonstration of its enduring relevance and potential in modern construction practices.
The CORNER Villa stands as a profound testament to thoughtful architectural design that respects and enhances its natural and cultural surroundings. It exemplifies how modern living can be seamlessly integrated with traditional materials and contextual considerations, creating a harmonious and inspiring habitat. The structure’s clever use of light, space, and color cultivates an environment that is both aesthetically captivating and deeply functional, promoting a sense of well-being and connection to the broader landscape. This project serves as a beacon of innovative design, showcasing a forward-thinking approach that redefines residential architecture in the region.