Muzamil Mutalib

advisor

City University Malaysia

Malaysia

Lecturer specializing in Interior Design and Architecture, with a strong passion for blending… more

This project stands out as a deeply moving and socially responsive architectural proposition, rooted in cultural resilience and gender equity. It is commendable how the student intertwines architectural design with an activist spirit, particularly in empowering women through spatial agency. The narrative is not only timely given the socio-political context of Iran but also deeply grounded in the lived realities of rural communities. The tribute to Khadijeh and the women of Khij village adds an emotional and historic layer to the work, elevating the project from a mere design proposal to a manifesto of spatial justice.

From a spatial perspective, the strategy of reviving village life through social cores such as the textile factory, educational zones and women centric workspaces demonstrates a solid understanding of how architecture can be a catalyst for economic revival and community building. The diagrams and isometric drawings are clear, engaging and reflect a well thought out masterplan. The layering of domestic and productive spaces reflects sensitivity to indigenous lifestyles, while the use of local materials like mud showcases a commitment to environmental and economic sustainability.

However, while the conceptual framework is powerful, there is room for architectural refinement. For instance, the massing and architectural articulation of the housing units, though contextually inspired, could benefit from deeper exploration in terms of spatial hierarchy, natural ventilation and modular flexibility. The work life zoning is a strong concept but could be further tested through more detailed sections, human scale spatial narratives or environmental performance studies especially given the hot arid context.

Additionally, as this is a proposal responding to community driven change, more emphasis on participatory processes such as co-design workshops or mapping community input would have further strengthened its authenticity and applicability. It would also be valuable to explore how this prototype could adapt to other rural contexts facing similar socio economic challenges.

In conclusion, this project is an inspiring example of how architecture can speak for the silenced, build empathy across generations and restore dignity through design. It is both poetic and purposeful well deserving of recognition. With continued development and resolution at the architectural detail level, this work has the potential to serve as a precedent for socially engaged design in the global south.