MONTAZERI POWER-PLANT OFFICE BUILDING

Design Frim: Cama Circle

Role: Collaborate in developing the final design idea, and fabricate copper light fixtures

Location: Montazeri Power-Plant, Isfahan, Iran

Date: 2018

The Shahid Montazeri power plant managers embarked on a project to renovate a 50-year-old building originally constructed by the Russians at the power plant. This rectangular structure, measuring 40×15 meters and spanning two floors, was nestled amidst expansive greenery within the power plant premises. The building’s unique layout featured a central dark corridor surrounded by rooms, allowing natural light to filter in from the northern and southern sides, while the rooms themselves had relatively small windows.

In recognition of the potential inherent in this building, a decision was made to transform it into a pavilion (Koushk) nestled within the verdant surroundings. The initial plan was rooted in the existing official system within the building, with the goal of creating a new space characterized by innovative qualities. While the plan underwent minor modifications, the overarching concept of a “borderless” space was established. Instead of physical boundaries, a virtual demarcation was created by employing contrasting materials and colors on the ceiling and floor, imbuing a sense of unity upon visitors. Additionally, glass elements were used to insulate noise, enhance privacy, and foster connections between the various spaces inside the building.

Office Building in 1966

Office Building in 2018

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

To create an open office space, interior walls were removed, and windows were extended from the ceiling to the lower portions of the walls to usher in ample natural light. This transparency established a connection between the interior and the surrounding greenery. The window details were meticulously designed to conceal the frames.

Office Building in 1966

Office Building in 2018

Ground Floor Plan

First Floor Plan

Facade

As part of the renovations, the openings were expanded, and the brick facade was scratched. Bent sheets were applied to the windows, contributing to a seamless facade appearance.

Before

After

Copper lights

Columns

The pendant lamps were designed with simplicity in mind. The inner surfaces featured scratches to mitigate excessive light reflection, while the outer portions were adorned through heating techniques.

Square pillars within the building were covered with plaster, soil, and color, transforming them into cylindrical forms and enhancing their visual appeal.

Pillars

Ceiling

To facilitate a borderless layout, installations were integrated into the ceiling and above the windows, eliminating obstructions on the floor. Ceiling-mounted fans were installed, and dry walls concealed the window frames and pillars, creating a porch-like space.

Due to the limited ceiling height and a desire to avoid suspended ceilings, oak wood lamellae were employed to cover the light tubes. This wood application served a dual purpose: it engendered a warm ambiance while reinforcing the ceiling structure.