Architectural Design | Engineering Supervision | Execution Management
by: MAA Office

Client: Mr. Aref Najafi & Partners

Project Overview

Location: Darbandsar Ski Region, Tehran Foothills (35.8128°N, 51.4237°E)
Timeline: Commissioned Winter 2020 (1399) | Ongoing
Site Area: 1,024 sqm | Built Area: 2,500 sqm
Configuration: Twin-block structure over 8 terraced levels

Site-Specific Design Solutions

Challenge

Innovative Response

19m North-South Elevation

Stepped foundations with cantilevered southern terraces

Cold Alpine Climate

Inward-focused thermal efficiency + maximum solar harvesting

Existing Fruit Orchards

T-shaped footprint preserving mature trees

Dual Ownership

Symmetrical twin blocks with equitable spatial distribution

Ski Equipment Logistics

Dedicated circulation diagram with gear storage zones

Architectural Highlights

Structural Aesthetics:

  • Exposed Concrete Shell: Custom formwork creating sculptural retaining walls
  • Sloped Southern Façade: Mountain-mimicking angles minimizing shadow impact
  • Climate-Responsive Openings:
    • Full-height glazing facing ski slopes
    • Semi-covered terraces with snow-melt systems

Spatial Program:

  • Levels 1-2: Service core (northern access)
  • Levels 3-8: Duplex residences with panoramic southern vistas (Ski Slope)
  • Signature Units: Double-height living spaces with suspended staircase

Technical Specifications

Engineering Systems:

  • Retaining walls with 45° buttresses (northern elevation)
  • Phase-change material insulation (-20°C rating)
  • Radiant floor heating powered

Sustainable Features:

  • passive solar heat gain optimization
  • Tree preservation strategy
  • Snow-load adaptive roofing system

Project Team

Architecture & Interior:

  • Lead Designer: Keyhan Mirzadeh (Mirzadeh Architecture Association)
  • Design Development: Eng. Saeedeh Salem
  • Interior Architecture: Eng. Maryam Dakoui
  • 3D Modeling: Eng. Mitra Habibi
  • Visualizations: Eng. Leila Asghari

Engineering:

  • Structural: Dr. Farzan Haddad Shargh + Eng. Sadri
  • MEP: Eng. Mohsen Mehrjoo + Eng. Alizadeh
Newer Darbandsar 2 | Sister Project to Darbandsar 1
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