In Mosha, Tehran Province, Iran, the Dasht-e-Chehel Villa by 35-51 ARCHITECTURE Office explores indoor and outdoor connections in a cold climate. The design allows users to experience the sensory visual, and psychological connection of the outdoors while remaining sheltered and dry.
The building is oriented in a north-south direction with the most beautiful views being towards the north.
By making a diagonal cut along the longitudinal sides of the building, the architects succeeded in bringing the north view to the centre of the building. Further to this, an outdoor roof projecting towards the yard allows for the usage of space during snow and rain while alternatively protecting from the intensity of midday heat and direct solar radiation.
To the south of the building, a thick stone wall, or Trombe wall, with openings at the top and bottom, stores heat at night, which is in turn radiated during the day.
Rather than levelling the site or stepping the building, horizontal and vertical access routes turn into ramps that afford more smooth and comfortable circulation throughout the building and an overall sense of freedom.