Interviews with Rezvan Yarhaghi

Design is my way of connecting with people and the environment. I’m motivated by the idea of creating meaningful spaces that improve human well-being and reflect cultural values.

I chose to become a designer. My passion for architecture grew naturally from my early interest in art and space.

I design residential villas, office buildings, and cultural spaces. I would love to design more projects that combine Iranian traditional elements with modern approaches, especially therapeutic and sustainable spaces.

They should deeply explore their cultural roots, be patient in their creative journey, and always seek meaningful connections between people and place.

A good designer meets the client's needs; a great designer elevates the experience beyond expectations and creates timeless impact.

A good design is one that solves problems while evoking emotions. It must be functional, sustainable, and inspiring.

Good design improves quality of life, fosters community, and adds long-term value. It's not just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing experience and efficiency.

I would design a cultural-therapeutic center in my hometown of Kermanshah, integrating nature, traditional Persian architecture, and neuroscience principles.

A self-sufficient eco-village in Iran that blends smart architecture, sustainability, and Iranian design heritage.

Authenticity. I try to remain true to the culture, climate, and spirit of place while balancing modern needs.

Nader Khalili, Zaha Hadid, Peter Eisenman, and Rem Koolhaas

I truly find it hard to choose. As an architect, I find all great works of architecture deeply inspiring and thought-provoking. However, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater House and Guggenheim Museum always captivate me.

Taravat Villa. It combines traditional Iranian elements with modern warmth, using brick, tile, and thoughtful spatial storytelling.

Read, travel, observe, and reflect. I also practice spiritual presence and deep listening to context.

Probably a writer, dancer, or psychologist—still involved in creative and healing fields.

Design is the translation of meaning into space, form, and experience.

My faith in God and support from my inner circle, including a few professors and my spiritual partner.

Curiosity, resilience, and a constant desire to serve and inspire.

Financial limitations, societal expectations, and moments of self-doubt.

With clarity, storytelling, and emotional resonance.

Let’s keep it a secret for now—some things are more magical when they unfold in their own time.

To create spaces that heal, inspire, and connect people with themselves, each other, and the divine.

They expect vision, cultural sensitivity, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to excellence in every detail.

Design can restore harmony between humans and nature, foster inclusive communities, and elevate the human spirit through beauty and meaning.

I’m exploring a series of adaptable therapeutic environments based on mirror neuron stimulation and emotional resonance in spatial design.

My modern courtyard home and Taravat Villa both brought great satisfaction. They reflect my passion for blending tradition, nature, and well-being into everyday living.

I’d like to see deeper focus on emotional sustainability, fairer opportunities for women and minorities, and broader integration of spiritual intelligence.

Towards more intuitive, neuro-responsive, and soul-centered design—where AI assists but the human spirit leads.

Depending on the scale, anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Conceptual clarity and client trust speed up the process.

I start by listening—first to the land, then to the people. I study the context, culture, and energy before touching any tool.

Design as prayer, architecture as love

Timeless design sets the trends. It leads with vision rather than following fashion.

It’s a servant, not the master. It helps me explore forms, simulate environments, and express ideas—but never replaces soul.

AutoCAD, Sketchup, 3d Max, Adobe Photoshop, and I use AI to test conceptual ideas.

They are like poetry—setting mood, grounding the senses, and shaping the emotional atmosphere of a space.

I wish they’d ask, “How does this space make people feel?” or “What story are you telling here?”

I wonder what values and emotions shaped it. I also reflect on how it can teach me something new.

Yes. My ideal partner is someone who listens deeply, challenges me gently, and shares a spiritual and emotional design language.

My professors, a few mentors, my clients, and local Iranian artisans.

The Timeless Way of Building" by Christopher Alexander, "The Eyes of the Skin" by Juhani Pallasmaa, and the poetry of Hafez and Rumi.

hrough continuous learning, emotional reflection, and daring to bring vulnerability into the design process.

Rumi, Frank Lloyd Wright, Nader Khalili, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Recognition is meaningful, but I try not to attach to it. What matters most is staying true to my path and purpose.

Color: Clay red and turquoise. Place: Zagros Mountains. Food: Fast Food. Season: Autumn. Thing: My journal. Brand: I prefer handmade and local over big brands.

To be honest, I don’t have a particularly funny story that stands out. But if anything, I’d say the sleepless nights before deadlines—half-lost in sketches and renderings—are the kind of chaotic moments that make this journey unforgettable in their own way.

When I see light in a client’s eyes or find a design that just feels “right.” My motivation also comes from prayer, poetry, and gratitude

It was always clear that I would become an artist of some kind. I used to draw the best paintings in class, and creativity was part of my identity.

Design will become energetic—spaces will shift dynamically with our emotions and needs, and architecture will help elevate human consciousness.

Every line I draw is a prayer for peace, a whisper of beauty, and a tribute to my homeland. I design to reconnect.

i work as a freelance architect that blends traditional Iranian architecture with modernist principles. I collaborate with both local and international clients on residential, commercial, and cultural projects. Although I do not operate from a formal office space, I manage all aspects of the design process independently and often coordinate with engineers, craftsmen, and consultants remotely

Design is a medium to connect soul, space, and society. It’s not just about function or aesthetics — it’s a moral responsibility to serve people, history, and nature.

I enjoy designing homes and public spaces that reflect cultural identity while serving contemporary needs. Therapeutic and spiritual spaces, especially those inspired by Persian architecture, are my favorite.

One of my favorites is a courtyard home inspired by Persian traditions, featuring stained glass, colorful tiles, and a peaceful central garden. It represents a harmony between past and present.

The first thing I designed for a client was a residential renovation project for a private client, not a company. It was a freelance commission to revitalize an old house, incorporating traditional Iranian elements with functional modern updates. This project helped me explore how cultural identity and contemporary needs can coexist harmoniously in architecture

In the spirit of Kheshtineh, where traditional Iranian architecture meets modern design, I favor brick for its cultural depth and aesthetic warmth. I utilize SketchUp and AutoCAD for drafting and modeling, Revit for BIM workflows, and Midjourney to visualize poetic atmospheres that inspire my architectural concepts

Late at night, when silence reigns and the world sleeps. I’m a night owl; my mind is most active when I can connect inward.

I focus on context, emotion, and materiality — how a space feels, how it engages the senses, and how it responds to climate and culture.

A mix of excitement, wonder, and deep presence. Designing is like entering a meditative flow state.

A deep sense of fulfillment and humility. It’s powerful to see people inhabit and interact with a space I once imagined

A design is successful when it uplifts human experience, honors its environment, and resonates with its users.

Authenticity, contextual sensitivity, and emotional resonance.

Designers must be guardians of culture and nature. We have a duty to create spaces that are inclusive, sustainable, and soulful.

Design is becoming more interdisciplinary. The future lies in smart, sustainable architecture rooted in tradition but driven by innovation.

I haven't held a formal exhibition yet. However, I have shared my works through online platforms and portfolio reviews.

Nature, Persian poetry, historical architecture, and conversations with people. I constantly study cities and traditional Iranian buildings.

A fusion of minimalism and mysticism — I call it Neo-Persian. It’s characterized by arches, courtyards, earthy tones, and cultural narratives.

I live in Kermanshah, Iran — a city rich in cultural and historical heritage. The traditions, textures, and rituals here deeply influence my architecture.

As a freelance architect, I usually work independently and collaborate directly with clients rather than companies. However, when I do partner with companies, I begin with conceptual sketches and moodboards to align our vision. I value transparency, clear communication, and shared design goals throughout the process

Trust your designer, but also communicate clearly. Look for someone who listens, questions, and interprets your needs creatively.

My process starts with empathy — understanding the user. Then I move to sketching, modeling, prototyping, and refining.

A mirror

A rug

My desk

A water mug

A lamp

My day starts late, with herbal tea and journaling. I sketch, research, or meet clients in the online. At night, I work on digital models and reflect.

Stay curious. Draw every day. Respect tradition. Listen to people. Design with love.

Positives: creative freedom, purpose, constant growth. Negatives: uncertainty, emotional burnout, and undervaluation.

Design from the inside out — human experience first.

Empathy, spatial intelligence, visual literacy, storytelling, and patience.

SketchUp, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Revit, hand sketching tools, books on Iranian architecture, and poetry by Hafez and Rumi.

I work in focused bursts, following the Pomodoro method. I also reflect weekly to adjust my pace.

It varies — from a few days to months, depending on complexity and scale.

Can you make it more traditional yet modern?

My most important job experiences include the restoration and renovation of residential homes, the design of modern villas incorporating traditional Persian elements, and a conceptual design for a gold market. Each of these projects allowed me to explore different scales and functions while staying rooted in my architectural philosophy.

Clients include homeowners, local developers, international firms, and artists.

Cultural and residential projects — because they allow deep storytelling and emotional connection.

I’m applying for a PhD in architecture in the U.S. and aim to publish research on the intersection of neuroscience and architecture.

I usually start alone or sometimes with one of my confidant friend, then collaborate with engineers, artists, and sometimes AI tools.

Yes — a villa that blends Persian tiles, arches, and smart architecture in a warm climate region.

My Gmail address:ryarhaghiii@gmail.com, my Instagram page- my LinkedIn and my website

In designing Taravat Villa Residential, I was deeply inspired by the timeless beauty and wisdom embedded in Persian architecture, particularly its craft-based elements like intricate tilework and arched openings. These aren’t merely decorative components; they carry centuries of cultural, climatic, and symbolic knowledge.The tilework, for instance, was inspired by the geometric motifs and chromatic harmony of Safavid-era architecture. But instead of replicating historical patterns, I reinterpreted them using locally sourced materials and low-VOC glazes, ensuring the surfaces remained both environmentally friendly and culturally expressive. The tile colors were selected not just for aesthetic appeal, but also to reflect light and regulate surface temperature.The arched openings served multiple functions — they created a sense of grandeur and spiritual openness, but more importantly, they allowed for passive cooling and natural ventilation. By adjusting the proportions and orientations of these arches based on solar angles and wind flow analysis, I was able to enhance thermal comfort inside the villa without relying heavily on mechanical systems.These traditional forms, when thoughtfully adapted, are inherently sustainable. My approach was to bridge the emotional richness of heritage with the ecological responsibility of contemporary design. In doing so, I believe Taravat Villa offers a narrative that is both rooted and forward-looking.

while Taravat Villa Residential does not include a central courtyard in the traditional sense, the project reimagines passive cooling techniques by distributing green terraces, arched balconies, and strategically layered volumes to achieve similar environmental effects through a more vertical and contemporary configuration.One of the key inspirations came from traditional Iranian architectural principles like multi-layered spatial hierarchy, thermal massing, and shaded transitional zones. Instead of placing a courtyard at the center, I created semi-open terraces and recessed balconies on multiple levels, which act as thermal buffers, promoting natural ventilation and minimizing heat gain — especially in warmer months.To optimize these passive strategies, I used environmental simulation tools like sun-path analysis and wind-flow modeling. These tools helped me position openings, recesses, and overhangs to regulate interior temperature naturally — ensuring the space remains cool without excessive reliance on mechanical systems.Moreover, the presence of climbing greenery and planters integrated into the facade contributes to evaporative cooling, improves air quality, and creates a biophilic connection with nature — another subtle but powerful interpretation of the traditional Iranian garden (Bagh).By blending environmental technology with vernacular spatial thinking, Taravat Villa creates a sustainable and emotionally resonant living experience that stays true to its cultural roots while addressing today’s climatic needs.

In Taravat Villa, the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces was central to our design philosophy. Inspired by traditional Iranian houses and their emphasis on spatial fluidity, we aimed to create a harmonious dialogue between the built environment and nature.Key considerations included:Layered Terraces and Green Platforms: I designed cascading green terraces and semi-open verandas to act as transitional spaces—these serve not only as extensions of the interior but also moderate the microclimate through vegetation and shade.Use of Arches and Large Openings: The architectural language employs generous arched windows and doors that frame views of nature, increase daylight penetration, and facilitate natural ventilation. This blurs the boundary between inside and outside.Material Continuity: I used a consistent palette of local brick, traditional turquoise tile, and stucco across interior and exterior surfaces. This material continuity reinforces spatial unity and creates a soothing visual rhythm.Cultural and Climatic Sensitivity: Drawing from Persian garden design and climatic architecture, I placed great emphasis on thermal comfort—by positioning openings strategically, integrating greenery, and orienting the building to harness prevailing winds.Ultimately, these transitions elevate the living experience by offering sensory richness—light, breeze, greenery—and simultaneously enhance the building’s environmental performance by reducing reliance on artificial systems.

The landscaping philosophy for Taravat Villa was deeply rooted in ecological sensitivity and cultural identity. I envisioned nature not as an addition to architecture but as an integral design element woven into the spatial narrative of the villa.My approach was guided by the following key principles:Use of Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants: I prioritized indigenous vegetation that thrives in the local climate with minimal irrigation. These plants not only reduce water consumption but also foster biodiversity and maintain ecological balance.Layered Green Integration: Landscaping was not limited to ground level. I extended greenery vertically across terraces, balconies, and rooftops—transforming each level into a breathable green layer that enhances insulation and reduces the urban heat island effect.Cultural Reflection: Inspired by Persian garden principles, I used vegetation to define movement, create contemplative spaces, and establish harmony between humans and the natural world. Green elements act as soft thresholds between indoor and outdoor zones.Sustainable Microclimate Design: The landscape plays a passive yet powerful role in the villa’s environmental performance. Trees and plants provide shade, filter dust, and cool the air, significantly reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems.In essence, the landscape in Taravat Villa is not just an aesthetic gesture—it is a living system that supports sustainability, enriches the user experience, and reinterprets traditional values in a contemporary architectural language.

The design of Taravat Villa relied significantly on AI-assisted tools that helped simulate environmental behavior and suggest efficient spatial solutions. Instead of conducting traditional in-depth climate analysis or physical material testing, I used AI to process regional data and quickly generate responsive design options.One of the most unexpected outcomes was how effectively AI could suggest form and orientation strategies aligned with passive cooling and natural lighting principles. It also led me to consider local materials such as brick and tile not only for their cultural value but also for their performance benefits in warm climates.This approach allowed me to balance innovation with tradition, using technology to inform decisions that remained sensitive to context and identity.

rtificial intelligence played a key role in optimizing the form and spatial layout of Taravat Villa to respond effectively to the challenges of southern Iran’s hot climate. Rather than relying solely on traditional intuition, I used AI-based simulation tools to test how various volumetric configurations would perform under intense sunlight, high temperatures, and prevailing wind conditions.These tools enabled me to:Quickly evaluate solar exposure on different facades and surfaces, leading to precise placement of overhangs, recesses, and shading elements.Optimize natural ventilation by analyzing wind flow through the building’s openings, which helped reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.Refine spatial zoning, ensuring that private, semi-private, and service areas were placed in thermally appropriate zones throughout the day.What made this process especially valuable was the speed at which AI could generate and compare alternatives. It allowed me to arrive at a compact yet layered design that minimizes heat gain, enhances airflow, and aligns with both functional needs and cultural expression.Ultimately, AI served as a tool to enhance environmental responsiveness without compromising architectural identity — a balance that was essential to the vision behind Taravat Villa.

In selecting materials for Taravat Villa, I was guided by two main principles: environmental responsibility and cultural continuity. I wanted the villa to reflect a modern commitment to sustainability while still resonating with the timeless material language of Persian architecture.The decision to incorporate recycled concrete and low-carbon steel came from a desire to reduce the project’s embodied carbon footprint without compromising structural integrity. These materials allowed for greater flexibility in form and detailing, while aligning with international standards for sustainable construction.At the same time, I balanced these modern elements with regionally sourced brick, lime plaster, and handmade tilework — materials historically used in Persian architecture for their thermal performance, durability, and expressive quality. This juxtaposition allowed the project to feel both contemporary and rooted.What ultimately shaped my material palette was not just performance data, but a deeper intent to create a dialogue between old and new — using today’s technologies and sustainable materials to tell a story that honors traditional building wisdom while responding to present-day environmental challenges.

In Taravat Villa, the integration of double-height spaces was not only an aesthetic or spatial gesture — it was a passive strategy deeply connected to environmental performance. These vertical voids act as natural thermal chimneys, facilitating stack ventilation by allowing warm air to rise and exit through upper openings, while drawing cooler air in from lower zones.To enhance this effect, I carefully aligned window openings, vents, and recessed balconies to create cross-ventilation paths throughout the villa. The proportions of these double-height spaces were also optimized to balance airflow with thermal comfort, especially during the region’s hot summer months.By combining these vertical volumes with AI-assisted airflow simulations, I was able to test and fine-tune ventilation efficiency across different scenarios. As a result, the villa maintains a comfortable indoor environment with minimal reliance on mechanical cooling systems, even during peak heat periods.This strategy reflects a core design value in the project: leveraging spatial form as a passive environmental tool, rooted in both vernacular wisdom and contemporary analysis.

I believe the future of sustainable residential architecture in Iran lies at the intersection of cultural continuity and technological innovation. Projects like Taravat Villa show that we don’t need to choose between heritage and progress — we can integrate both to create designs that are not only efficient and climate-responsive, but also emotionally and culturally resonant.By using AI tools alongside traditional design principles, I was able to uncover new ways of solving age-old problems — from managing heat to shaping space — without losing the symbolic and spatial richness of Persian architecture. This hybrid approach can inspire a new generation of architects to see sustainability not as a technical checklist, but as a creative dialogue between identity, environment, and technology.As climate challenges intensify and cultural homogenization increases, I see this method as a way to preserve local character while embracing global tools. It offers a model for how Iranian architecture can evolve: grounded in place, enriched by memory, and empowered by innovation.