Saeed Amini

advisor

Tehran University of Art

United Arab Emirates

I am an architect, researcher, and architectural critic who views architecture not merely as a… more

The project demonstrates a clear and disciplined massing strategy that responds intelligently to the constraints of a corner plot and the converging geometries of the surrounding street network. The decision to derive the building envelope from the extrapolated lines of neighboring façades creates a strong urban continuity, and the subsequent subdivision of the volume into two intersecting masses is conceptually sound. However, the collision between the two volumes could be strengthened with a more expressive articulation either through a shift in materiality, depth, or fenestration rhythm to make this conceptual gesture more legible in the built form. The façade composition is visually calm and elegant, but the repetitive horizontal bands and large glazing areas risk monotony; introducing calibrated variations in balcony treatment or vertical emphasis could enrich the façade’s hierarchy while preserving its clarity. The ground floor appears visually permeable, but its relationship to the public realm could be reinforced by more defined entrances, enhanced transparency, or a stronger transition between commercial frontage and street life. The courtyard and permeable green areas offer valuable environmental benefits, yet their spatial character remains somewhat understated in the current representation; further landscape detailing and micro-topography could help establish this space as a genuine semi-private amenity. Overall, the project stands on a robust conceptual foundation and demonstrates strong urban sensitivity, but it would benefit from more nuanced architectural expression to elevate the clarity of the massing, strengthen the identity of the façade, and enhance the lived experience of the outdoor spaces.

While the overall volumetric strategy is clear and responds well to the corner condition, the project would benefit from a stronger articulation of hierarchy between the two interlocking masses, as the current treatment makes their “collision” conceptually legible but not entirely spatially convincing. The façade rhythm is elegant, yet the repetition of vertical timber-textured panels across long elevations risks visual monotony; introducing subtle variations in depth, shading devices, or material transitions could enrich the façade’s expression. The ground-floor interface with the street feels somewhat understated for a corner building of this scale more emphasis on transparency, canopy elements, or spatial spill-out zones could reinforce its civic presence and improve pedestrian engagement. The relationship between the commercial plinth and the residential volumes above could also be sharpened through more deliberate differentiation in materiality or proportion. In the courtyard, while the intention to preserve greenery is commendable, the landscape strategy could be more integrated with resident circulation and communal use rather than functioning primarily as leftover green space. Finally, the interior layouts appear efficient, but some units particularly those at acute angles could benefit from refined orientation and daylight studies to ensure optimal living quality.
03.12.2025