Bronze Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2025
Tamrin Space Cultural Center
- A' Design Award 2025 Bronze Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: Tamrin Space
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 12,285
- Verification code 23A2EC59DF · Verify this award
About Tamrin Space Cultural Center
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.
Within the evolving discourse of contemporary cultural architecture, Tamrin Space Cultural Center demonstrates a sophisticated engagement with materiality, spatial sequence, and contemplative experience that positions the project within lineages extending from mid-century modernist spatial clarity through the tectonic minimalism of concrete poetry practitioners. The design achieves notable compositional sophistication through its orchestration of contrasting material temperatures and textural characters, establishing dialogue between the cool industrial presence of exposed aggregate concrete and the warm geological character of travertine or limestone flooring, a juxtaposition that creates thermal balance and sensory richness while maintaining overall restraint and visual discipline. The central concrete element functions as both literal structural support and symbolic threshold marker, its monolithic presence suggesting permanence, gravity, and architectural seriousness while the aperture above introduces celestial connection and temporal variation as natural light shifts throughout diurnal cycles, animating the static surface with moving shadow and changing luminous intensity. The spatial planning demonstrates assured handling of procession and revelation, with carefully calibrated sightlines that frame views into adjacent volumes, creating layered spatial transparency that invites exploration while maintaining distinct zones for varied activities and contemplative modes. Technical execution evidences refined detailing particularly visible in the seamless integration of lighting infrastructure, the precise geometry of built-in millwork, and the thoughtful junction conditions where dissimilar materials meet, suggesting meticulous specification and skilled fabrication. The introduction of living botanical elements serves multiple functions simultaneously: providing biophilic connection that softens architectural severity, contributing essential chromatic contrast through organic green against neutral ground, establishing human scale reference through familiar domestic gesture, and symbolizing growth, renewal, and the cultivation of life within built environment. The glimpsed shelving system populated with books reinforces the cultural and intellectual dimensions of the program, suggesting spaces for reading, study, dialogue, and the accumulation of knowledge, while the traditional patterned rug visible in foreground acknowledges cultural heritage and tactile comfort, grounding contemporary minimalism in human tradition and domestic ritual. Thematically, the design appears to explore tensions and harmonies between opposing qualities: industrial and refined, monumental and intimate, stark and warm, mineral and vegetal, permanent and ephemeral, creating spatial poetry through material dialectic and phenomenological orchestration. One might observe how the design invites consideration of architecture's capacity to frame silence, structure light, and choreograph human movement through space, transforming functional requirements into opportunities for heightened sensory awareness and contemplative presence.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The architecture of the Tamrin Space encompasses everything that embodies value and authenticity, acknowledging that nothing lasts forever and nothing is ever complete. The design seeks to create an environment where the details are precise and hidden, appreciating the subtle beauty that exists in the simplicity and authenticity of the elements.The final plan was developed by considering access, views, and vistas, as well as spaces for pauses and divisions, accessibility for disabled individua
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Total Land Area: 365 sqm
Area of Construction: 525 sqm - Tags
- Persian, Modern, Music, Theater, performance, Handmade Tile, Cafe,
- Production Technology
- One of the most significant changes made to the building was the introduction of natural light into the center of
the structure through a skylight on the roof and the creation of a full-height void from the roof to the ground floor.
This void, featuring a glass floor on the second level and open with a glass railing on the first level, directs light to
the garden situated beneath the void. As a result, all areas of this project benefit from natural light. In the design
of new volumes and elements, such as the central garden on the ground floor, the layout of the café tiles, and the
restrooms, inspiration was drawn from the existing shapes and elements of the building. The volumes that form
the café counters, reception counters, and library were all made from plaster, designed to appear as if they
emerged from the walls themselves. A meticulous and restrained use of materials in various sections, along with
efforts to restore and repair the existing elements of the building, aimed to preserve its authenticity and identity. - Design Challenge
- A significant amount of time was spent on reinforcing the building's structure. On the foundation, bending bars combined with concrete beams created a unified foundation system, which was connected to the existing structure using dowel bars. Additionally, considering the moisture in the foundation and to prevent rising damp in the building's walls, a drainage channel (drainage trench) was installed in front of the foundation. All walls, floors, and ceilings were reinforced and strengthened. Two shear walls were added to the structural system in the east-west direction, and three shear walls were added in the north-south direction.
- Project Duration
- The design of project started in December 2020 in Tehran and construction is finished in November 2022 in Tehran.
- Operation Flow
- The outcome of this project is a dynamic and multifunctional space that aligns perfectly with the activities taking place within it. On the other hand, a valuable house in one of Tehran's cultural neighborhoods has been properly restored and renovated, enabling it to continue its life for many more years. The building’s proximity to significant cultural and artistic centers, such as the City Theater and Roudaki Hall, is in complete harmony with its function, and it can serve as an inspiring example for other buildings in the area that are threatened with demolition.
- Research
- One of the most significant changes made to the building was the introduction of natural light into the center of the structure through a skylight on the roof and the creation of a full-height void from the roof to the ground floor. This void, featuring a glass floor on the second level and open with a glass railing on the first level, directs light to the garden situated beneath the void. As a result, all areas of this project benefit from natural light. In the design of new volumes and elements, such as the central garden on the ground floor, the layout of the café tiles, and the restrooms, inspiration was drawn from the existing shapes and elements of the building. The volumes that form the café counters, reception counters, and library were all made from plaster, designed to appear as if they emerged from the walls themselves. A meticulous and restrained use of materials in various sections, along with efforts to restore and repair the existing elements of the building, aimed to preserve its authenticity and identity. Even in areas where imperfections were left intentionally untouched, the building's original character was maintained. The age and passage of time were showcased by revealing the brickwork of the vaulted ceilings and the soot-stained bricks along the old chimney route. Alongside the library window, which benefited from controlled light due to the proximity of a mature mulberry tree in the yard, a cozy space for sitting and reading was created.
- Inspiration
- The project's client had a clear and defined vision of the desired space even before selecting the project building. They described this space as follows: Tamrin Space is the dream of having an independent house for a group of music and theater artists. It’s about enjoying working together and engaging in artistic activities in a space meticulously designed and prepared for such experiences.
- Image Credits
- Image #1: Photographer Mohammad Hasan Ettefagh
Image #2: Photographer Mohammad Hasan Ettefagh
Image #3: Photographer Mohammad Hasan Ettefagh
Image #4: Photographer Mohammad Hasan Ettefagh
Colors of Tamrin Space Cultural Center
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Design Interview about Tamrin Space Cultural Center
The main idea was to preserve and continue the life of an old building rather than demolishing it and building anew. We wanted to respect its history, character, and imperfections while giving it a new life and purpose.
Our main focus was to preserve the identity and character of the existing building while transforming it into a functional and inspiring space for artists to work, practice, and create.
My hope is simply that Tamrin Space continues to live and evolve as a home for artists, while preserving the character and identity of the original building.
The design process was a long and iterative one. We had to learn from both the existing building and the client’s needs while developing the design. I would say it took around six months to arrive at the overall concept.
The project was commissioned by the client, but the concept developed through our collaboration. We learned from the existing building, its history and character, as well as the client's needs, and these became the main inspiration for the design.
This is a completed architectural project, designed and implemented specifically for the client.
The opportunity to give an old house a new life and transform it into a place where artists could work, practice, and create was the main motivation behind this project.
There was no particular designer or project that directly influenced the design. The main source of inspiration was the existing building itself, its history, character, and the traces of time.
The main users are music and theatre artists who need a place to practice, work, create, and share their work
What sets this project apart is that it is not simply the restoration of an old house. It is about bringing the same old house back to life, preparing it for new users, and responding to their needs while preserving its identity and character.
We thought a lot about the name together with the client and had several discussions before arriving at the final name, which was chosen by the client.
“Tamrin” is a Persian word that means practice and training. It reflects the nature of the space, where people involved in theatre and music come to practice, learn, teach, and improve. Both the permanent members and visitors are always practicing, learning, and trying to become better.
“Tamrin” is a Persian word that means practice and training. It reflects the nature of the space, where people involved in theatre and music come to practice, learn, teach, and improve. Both the permanent members and visitors are always practicing, learning, and trying to become better.
We used a combination of hand sketches, paper and pencil, drawings, and digital tools. The process started with observing and understanding the existing building, then developing ideas through sketches, drawings, and digital visualizations.
The most unique aspect of the design is that we did not try to make the old house look new. Instead, we allowed its history, character, and traces of time to remain, while giving the building a new life and a new purpose for its new users.
I collaborated with a young and talented design team, as well as a group of skilled contractors whom I had worked with for many years. Their practical experience was very valuable, and some parts of the design were finalized after discussing and consulting with them.
Technology played a supporting role in the design process, mainly through digital drawings, visualizations, and technical analysis
Yes. The design was strongly influenced by our analysis of the existing building and its potential. We studied the building’s history, structure, natural light, ventilation, access, existing spaces, and architectural details. We also spent considerable time understanding the client’s needs and the requirements of the future users. These observations and analyses guided many of our design decisions.
One of the main challenges was transforming an old and deteriorated building to meet the needs of its new users without losing its original character and identity. We also faced significant structural and technical challenges, as the existing building required extensive reinforcement and repair.
Another challenge was finding the right balance between the client’s evolving needs and the limitations and potential of the existing building. The design developed through an ongoing process of discussion, analysis, and adjustment until these different requirements came together.
Another challenge was finding the right balance between the client’s evolving needs and the limitations and potential of the existing building. The design developed through an ongoing process of discussion, analysis, and adjustment until these different requirements came together.
We wanted to share the project with a wider international audience and have the design evaluated beyond our local context. We felt that the ideas behind Tamrin Space, particularly the approach of giving an old building a new life while preserving its identity, could be meaningful in a broader architectural context.
This was the first time I had restored a house of this age, and I learned something new every day. The building constantly revealed new details, challenges, and surprises, making the whole process a valuable learning experience for me.
Tamrin Space was not only about restoring an old house. It was also about preserving a small part of Tehran’s identity and memory. I believe this is what Tehran needs today: preserving the identity of the city instead of destroying its past, and giving old buildings a new life and purpose.
Grand Interview about Tamrin Space Cultural Center
One 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.