In the north of Iran, this shoreline villa looks out across the Caspian Sea. This location offers the chance to create a space that encompasses the needs of a villa while playing with the standards of building in the humid, northern climate.

The humid and rainy climate of northern Iran required careful attention to ventilation, moisture control, and daylighting. Using a central courtyard in this region, which is uncommon, posed challenges in managing airflow and light penetration. The inverted roof slope, facing inward instead of the traditional outward slope, required careful design to improve sea views and natural light.

The building is oriented so the iwan directly faces the sea. A central courtyard channels the sea breeze into the villa, enhancing natural ventilation. The roof slope was inverted to improve sea views and allow more light. A shallow, private pool, inspired by Japanese onsen and traditional Iranian pools, was integrated into the courtyard. The project draws from Iranian architecture with a central courtyard while blending Japanese onsen concepts with traditional Iranian pools in the design of the private pool.

The house is situated so that an iwan opens toward the northern sea side. A central courtyard helps pull the sea breeze through the entire home, providing air circulation and cooling during warmer days. Although courtyards are typical of Iranian architecture, they are not common in the north due to the tendency toward rain and more mild weather.

However, the inclusion of one in this design allows for more light to enter the home and the sea breeze to circulate throughout the interior. In the same way, rather than design an externally sloped roof typical of rainy climates, the roof in this design is upturned in order to provide better sea-viewing and allow lighter to enter. The four corners draw in toward the courtyard, where yet another feature unique for this area was added.

Combining the concepts of the Japanese onsen and the traditional Persian hoz, a protected, shallow pool for private use makes up one part of the courtyard. The sun’s path crosses directly over the court, making it the ideal space for soaking up the sun and cooling off undisturbed.

• Central courtyard in a humid, rainy climate
• Shallow private pool combining Japanese onsen and Iranian pool concepts
• Inverted roof slope to enhance sea views and natural light

The design maximizes natural ventilation and daylight, reducing energy use. Courtyards, gardens, and the pool create comfort while respecting the natural environment, integrating human experience with nature.

Site scale: Coastal plot with direct sea view and central courtyard Building scale: Roof, iwan, and courtyard designed for light, ventilation, and views Human scale: Terraces, courtyard, and pool enhance outdoor living and comfort Landscape scale: Integration of courtyard, pool, and airflow to optimize environmental experience