Mehr Khaneh: A Blend of Persian Culture and Modern Design

Keivani Architects Combine Tradition and Innovation in Award-Winning Interior Design

The Mehr Khaneh project, located in Kiev, Ukraine, was completed in June 2016, after a year of meticulous planning and execution. The design is heavily influenced by the team's deep appreciation for Persian culture, particularly Mithraism and sun symbolism. The sun, a symbol of light, knowledge, and wisdom in Persian culture, is a recurring motif in the design. The team also drew inspiration from historic mihrabs and ziggurats, using them as a symbolic element in the design of the staircase in the living room.

The Mehr Khaneh spans an area of 101 square meters, with an interior height of 3 meters. The majority of the interior is finished with smooth, raw concrete, from the walls to the floor and even the ceiling. This choice of material gives the space a modern, industrial feel. However, the designers have skillfully balanced this with the addition of natural wood textures in the furniture and the sunroom adjacent to the kitchen, creating a cozy and warm atmosphere.

Despite economic limitations, the design team managed to create a stunning interior using affordable materials such as concrete, rebar, and recycled wood. The choice of brick and wood, along with the design of the lighting fixtures, further contribute to the homely feel of the space. The lighting fixtures, in particular, follow the geometric symbol of the sun, reinforcing the sun motif present throughout the design.

The furniture in the Mehr Khaneh is designed in accordance with the overall concept, using materials such as concrete, rebar, and metals. The kitchen's interior design also reflects this concept, creating a sense of consistency throughout the space. The designers faced the challenge of creating a space that was not only cozy and warm but also artistic and symbolic, akin to a gallery. They successfully achieved this by using loft design style while maintaining a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Keivani Architects' Mehr Khaneh is a testament to the team's ability to blend tradition and innovation. The design is a unique interpretation of Persian architecture and genius loci in residential spaces, transformed into a practical and modern language. This project is a shining example of how design can be used to pay homage to a culture's history and values while also pushing the boundaries of modern design.