We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Nima Keivani about their original and creative Residenial design work. Nima Keivani is an award-winning architectural designer, that makes our world a better place with their original residenial works.
Nima Keivani ("NK") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Pardis Kahneh Residenial. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
NK : The primary inspiration for Pardis Khaneh comes from Persian gardens, particularly Baghe Takht in Shiraz, which embodies the essence of a vertical garden. This concept aligns with the project's unique location between two public gardens, making the building a connective vertical garden that bridges nature with architecture. The dynamic wooden surfaces reflect the organic growth of cedar leaves, metaphorically symbolizing resilience and tradition. This design integrates historical elements while addressing modern urban needs.
NK : The focus was to create a residence that revives the essence of Persian architectural heritage while maintaining a modern aesthetic. By blending space psychology with functional design, the aim was to offer residents a sanctuary that harmonizes with nature and reflects their cultural roots. Reinterpreting the hanging gardens in a contemporary style, the project establishes an emotional connection between the user, architecture, and the surrounding environment.
NK : As the building has already been sold, future plans for this specific design lie in the hands of the new owners. However, the recognition this project has received strengthens the studio's commitment to promoting Iranian architectural identity in future projects. We envision continuing to explore similar principles in upcoming designs to merge tradition with innovation.
NK : The design phase for Pardis Khaneh was completed within 6–7 months. This timeline included extensive research into historical Iranian gardens and developing innovative features like the movable wooden panels.
NK : The design was commissioned by a client who sought a unique architectural solution for their residential building. The concept was shaped by the site’s contextual needs and a desire to create a landmark design rooted in Iranian culture.
NK : No, the building has been sold, and there are no current plans to reproduce the design. However, its unique elements might inspire future projects.
NK : The project presented an opportunity to revive the spirit of Persian gardens in a modern architectural framework. This blend of tradition and innovation offered a creative challenge that aligns with our studio’s philosophy of merging Iranian identity with contemporary needs.
NK : Persian miniature paintings played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. These artworks offered a symbolic and detailed representation of paradise, which was adapted into the project's terraces, courtyards, and facade.
NK : The target customers are individuals or families seeking a modern residential experience that remains deeply connected to Iranian cultural heritage. The design appeals to those who value a balance between tradition and innovation.
NK : forgotten Iranian architecture concealing the identity of the region, The identity which must be introduced in modern form today. Traditional Architectural elements are not seen in this building and even the used materials are not similar to their traditional patterns. But the applied simplicity and harmony in its architecture and modernized traditional construction causes the resident finds himself in a modern house but with traditional feelings and atmosphere. Pardis Khaneh stands out due to its unique approach to integrating Iranian architectural identity without replicating traditional patterns. Instead of using overtly traditional elements, the design employs simplicity and harmony to evoke a sense of cultural familiarity in a modern setting. Features like the cedar-planted facade, dynamic wooden lattice, and multi-level green spaces create a soothing, responsive living environment that is both aesthetically and climatically adaptive.
NK : "Pardis" means "green garden" and symbolizes paradise in ancient Persian. Combined with "Khaneh," which means "house," the name reflects the project's essence: a modern sanctuary infused with the spirit of a Persian garden.
NK : The project utilized a combination of hand sketches and digital tools, including 3ds Max, Revit, Lumion, and AutoCAD, for modeling, visualization, and precise detailing.
NK : The integration of cedar trees on the facade is a standout feature, along with the movable wooden lattice panels that allow users to adjust privacy and light. These elements interact with sunlight to create dynamic visuals while maintaining a connection to traditional Iranian architecture. Also climatically responsive building.
NK : Collaboration with specialists in structural engineering, landscape design, and material fabrication was essential to achieving the technical and aesthetic goals of the project.
NK : The main facade is consisting of three main materials: thermos wood for window shading devise, turquoise Stone facing for the main facade and exposed concrete as a Complementary Neutral material used in entrance, The detail of wood panels is originally designed and all the wooden frames were cut and bolted under the supervision of the design team in the place. each panel has a steel frame covered by wooden finishing. Which not only can move linearly in rails but also can have hinge rotation. As mentioned the occupants are free to move and rotate the panels which make it an interactive, flexible, dynamic facade. Technology played a pivotal role, especially in fabricating the wooden lattice panels and their hinge rotation system. Advanced structural analysis ensured the panels were durable and functional, while modern irrigation systems supported the vertical gardens.
NK : Yes, the design is informed by historical research into Persian gardens and their representation in miniatures, as well as modern studies on urban connectivity and environmental performance. The design team has so despite the study of historical aspects of Iranian garden architecture, also analyzed Persian garden in Iranian miniature paintings. In many cases, the gardens in miniature were mostly applied to illustrate the paradise on earth and that is why the word Pardis derives from paradise.So pardis khane is a type of residential building that is designed for the modern lifestyle, but it is conscious of Iranian identity.
NK : The biggest challenge was ensuring that the architectural identity resonated with Iranian heritage while meeting contemporary living standards. Balancing aesthetics, functionality, and environmental performance required extensive experimentation and collaboration.
NK : I had participated in A design competition before and I find it a well organized competition .So it is a good experience to participate here every time.
NK : The project deepened our understanding of integrating cultural motifs into modern designs and highlighted the importance of technical innovation in bringing traditional concepts to life. It reinforced the studio's ability to address complex urban challenges creatively.
NK : Pardis Khaneh represents not just a building but a philosophy of reconciling heritage with modernity. It sets a precedent for future projects in Tehran and beyond, showing how architecture can serve as a bridge between the past and the future. This project has also inspired us to continue exploring the integration of cultural identity with innovative design approaches.
