Brick House No. 30, Qazvin | Rymast Studio

Project Overview

Location:

Qazvin, Iran

Function:

Residential

Design & Construction Period:

2017–2019

Client:

Dr. Moeiri

Status:

Built

Architects:

Rymast Design Group | Amirhossein Janzadeh, Vahid Eteghadi

Project Introduction

Brick House No. 30 is a contemporary residential project located in the city of Qazvin, conceived and realized through an approach grounded in sustainable architecture, the use of indigenous materials, and the optimization of energy consumption. The project is envisioned not merely as a space for habitation, but as an architectural synthesis that brings together the aesthetic lineage of Iranian architecture with contemporary technologies of climatic control and energy management.
By relying on the inherent identity of brick as a primary material and by developing a dynamic building envelope responsive to environmental conditions, the designers sought to create a structure that, while formally restrained, carries a distinct identity and a powerful visual presence.
The project took shape within the urban context of Qazvin through a precise reading of the region’s semi-arid climate; where solar exposure, natural ventilation, and thermal regulation play a decisive role in shaping the quality of everyday life for its inhabitants.

Design Concept and Architectural Approach

The central design concept is founded upon the coexistence of vernacular architectural principles and environmental sustainability. In this house, brick operates not simply as a structural or cladding material, but as a climatic mediator and an element of architectural identity.
The building form is articulated through a series of recessions, volumetric voids, subtle rotations, the insertion of small light courts, the integration of greenery across roof surfaces and vertical planes, and the creation of protective spatial layers through service zones. Collectively, these strategies generate natural shading while simultaneously enriching the spatial articulation and depth of the facade.
By deliberately avoiding superfluous ornamentation and focusing on the purity of material expression, the architects aimed for the building to dissolve into its urban surroundings rather than compete with them; while still retaining its own architectural signature. Such an approach ensures that the project maintains both its visual relevance and functional performance over time.

Indigenous Materials and Material Identity

One of the most defining characteristics of the project is its intentional use of local materials; most prominently brick. Within this house, brick:
- Functions as a natural thermal insulator
- Produces visual warmth and textural richness
- Establishes a direct dialogue with the traditions of Iranian architecture
- Contributes to the reduction of the carbon footprint associated with material transportation
Material selection was undertaken not solely from an aesthetic perspective, but with careful consideration of life-cycle performance and environmental impact; positioning the project firmly within the discourse of sustainable architectural practice.

Energy Management and Climatic Strategies

Brick House No. 30 stands as a clear manifestation of climate-responsive design and energy optimization within residential architecture. Among the principal strategies employed are:
- Operable Shading Devices;
- Regulation of direct and indirect solar radiation during warmer seasons
- Reduction of cooling loads by approximately 10 to 50 percent
- Formation of a dynamic and ever-changing outer envelope
- Protective Elements and Secondary Skin;
- Mitigation of the impact of hot winds and intense solar exposure
- Enhancement of facade durability alongside improved thermal performance
- Microclimate Formation;
Through the integration of greenery, volumetric recesses, and layered protective elements, a microclimate has been cultivated around the building. This localized environmental condition contributes to moderating ambient temperatures and improving thermal comfort for residents throughout the year.

Natural Light and Ventilation

Within the interior organization, daylight and natural ventilation were treated as two foundational design principles:
- Strategic positioning of openings to maximize the penetration of natural daylight
- Reduction in dependence on artificial lighting systems
- Facilitation of continuous natural airflow and a corresponding decrease in reliance on mechanical cooling
- Improvement of indoor air quality and the overall healthfulness of the living environment
Interior spaces are configured in such a way that light, shadow, and framed outward views generate a spatial experience that is dynamic and evolving, while consistently maintaining a perceptual connection with the exterior environment.

Spatial Quality and Living Experience

Brick House No. 30 is not merely a physical construct, but a framework for experiencing contemporary life articulated through an Iranian-modern architectural lens. The continuity of interior spaces, the calibrated use of natural light, the honesty of materials, and the presence of integrated greenery collectively give rise to an atmosphere that is calm, humane, and spatially balanced.
Within the logic of the project, function and beauty are not conceived as opposing forces; rather, they are carefully interwoven, allowing the house to become a setting for high-quality living; energy-efficient, environmentally attuned, and experientially rich.

Project Summary and Added Value

Brick House No. 30 can be regarded as a compelling example of sustainable residential architecture in Iran, within which:

Indigenous identity is meaningfully integrated with contemporary technologies
Energy consumption is managed through informed, scientific strategies
Local materials are employed in an intelligent and performance-driven manner
Thermal comfort and quality of habitation are placed at the forefront of design priorities
And ultimately, a building has been realized that is both aesthetically enduring and functionally resilient

The project offers a valuable reference model for architects and clients seeking to realize housing that is low-consumption, climate-responsive, and endowed with a distinctive architectural character; demonstrating how environmental responsibility and architectural expression can be brought into lasting alignment.