Nominated for the Agha Khan Award for Architecture

Situated in the historic city of Isfahan, Iran, at the foothills of the Zagros mountain range, BMDesign Studios’ Alive House is a project that harmoniously blends traditional design principles with innovative sustainability practices. Isfahan’s climate, characterized by its arid conditions, hot summers, and mild winters, provides a unique challenge in creating a comfortable living space. However, the cool evenings and low humidity at night offer an opportunity to design a home that thrives in this harsh climate.

To address the challenging environmental conditions, Alive House utilizes a clever architectural solution in its roof design. The roof is tilted toward the east, creating effective zones of negative pressure that facilitate natural ventilation throughout much of the year. The ventilation system is further enhanced by strategically placed controllable vents at the peak of the roof, which generate a sucking effect to draw air into the building. This, combined with large openings to the south, promotes a steady flow of fresh air throughout the home.

The design incorporates a carefully considered outdoor environment to improve indoor air quality and provide a cooling effect. The air first passes through a line of evergreen trees, which naturally filter it, before it flows over a reflective pool in the garden. It then enters the home, passing over an indoor pond, where the air is further cooled, ensuring a pleasant and healthy atmosphere inside.

The Alive House exemplifies how innovative design can improve the livability of a region, working in harmony with the environment to create a space that is not only comfortable but also sustainable. By drawing inspiration from the natural climate and landscape, BMDesign Studios has created a living space that is as responsive as it is beautiful, earning its well-deserved nomination for the prestigious Agha Khan Award for Architecture.