The RYRA architectural firm sought to build a space whose facade would serve as a “city skin”, and reflect the dynamism of Tehran’s streets and the people who wander about them. They accomplished this through versatile, modern lines and highly glossy Brazilian marble.
1 of 5
Another RYRA Studio design is the Vali-Asr office building, built in 2009. The edifice seems taller than its mere two stories due to its glossiness and sharp lines. Source: Divisare
2 of 5
Traffic constantly zips by the building, which inspired the architects to illuminate the city's flow by using reflective marble as the exterior material. The stone minimizes energy consumption. Small openings in the façade minimize heat in the summer and preserve it in the winter. Source: Divisare
3 of 5
Natural light envelops the interior of the building, reducing the need for electrical lighting.
Source: Architecture News
4 of 5
Stone is associated with traditional Persian architecture, but this design puts a modern spin on its use. The Vali-Asr building was so well-received it won the title of World’s Best Office Building at the World Architecture Festival. Source: Divisare
5 of 5
A black marble walkway hugs the building's exterior in contrast to the white sheen of the façade.
Source: Architecture News
Six Modern Buildings You Won’t Believe Are In Tehran, Iran
Over the past one hundred years or so, urbanization projects have rid Tehran of much of its green spaces. Architect Mohammed Reza Nikbahkt wanted to show that good, durable design and greenery don't have to be antagonistic, and thus made this residential complex within the Niavaran neighborhood blend with its natural surroundings.
1 of 5
This curvy stone building envelops the surrounding greenery in Tehran’s Niavaran neighborhood. Previous construction projects had removed many gardens and parks, but architect Mohammed Reza Nikbahkt seized the opportunity to try something different. Source: Thoughts In Perspective
2 of 5
Gardens have long been important in Persian culture, so Nikbahkt designed the building to snake around existing trees that he incorporates into the overall aesthetic. The five-story building includes 30 residential units, along with a swimming pool, gym and ceremonial hall. Source: The Real Amir Taheri
3 of 5
The open spaces and trees assist with ventilation and provide for stunning surroundings. Source: The Real Amir Taheri
4 of 5
Flora envelops the levels of the building, softening the hardness of brick and mortar development and reconnecting residents to nature. Source: Thoughts in Perspective
5 of 5
The architects preserved local trees while still meeting housing needs for residents. Source: The Real Amir Taheri
Six Modern Buildings You Won’t Believe Are In Tehran, Iran
Savannah Cox holds a Master's in International Affairs from The New School as well as a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, and now serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Sheffield. Her work as a writer has also appeared on DNAinfo.
Citation copied
COPY
Cite This Article
Sims, Susan. "Six Modern Buildings You Won’t Believe Are In Tehran, Iran." AllThatsInteresting.com, May 13, 2015, https://allthatsinteresting.com/tehran-architecture. Accessed September 16, 2025.
