Golshahr Plaza: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Ahmad Saffar's Award-Winning Design Merges Iranian Culture with Contemporary Architecture

With a keen interest in the dialogue between context and function, Saffar Studio has successfully created a design that pays homage to traditional Iranian architecture while meeting the needs of a modern world. The design process was driven by a simple yet challenging question: Can we ignore the history or culture of an area to meet the demands of modernity? The answer, as embodied in Golshahr Plaza, is a resounding 'no'.

The unique properties of Golshahr Plaza lie in its ability to absorb people into its unique spaces, thereby increasing sociability and interactions. The design caters to the ever-changing needs of the citizens, providing spaces that fit into their lifestyle. The plaza serves as a landmark in Karaj city, attracting visitors with its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

The design of Golshahr Plaza is eco-friendly and affordable, with brick being the primary material used. The project, which covers an area of 22,160 sqm, started in May 2018 and underwent two stages of competition. The design team included Marzieh Estedadi, Navid Shokravi, Bahar Mesbah, Niloofar Oji, Ghazaleh Eydi, Niloofar Zaker Vafaei, Elaheh Azarakhsh, and Nasim Sadeghpour, with Ahmad Saffar as the architect in charge.

The design process focused on several key aspects: the revival of the mosque as a place for prayer, the history and geometry of traditional Iranian mosques, sustainable development, and increasing interactions between people in society. The project also paid attention to the archetypes and the theories of Unity in Diversity and Order in Chaos.

The most challenging part of the project was designing a religious and public space in a modern world while respecting the culture, history, and ecology of the area. Despite these challenges, Saffar Studio's design for Golshahr Plaza has been recognized with a Silver A' Design Award, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.

In conclusion, Ahmad Saffar's Golshahr Plaza is a shining example of how traditional architecture can be reshaped with innovative design solutions to meet the needs of a modern world. The design, which is deeply rooted in history and culture, serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving tradition while embracing modernity.