In northern Iran, this shoreline villa overlooks the Caspian Sea. This location presented an opportunity to create a space that meets the needs of a modern villa while responding the humid, coastal climate. The region’s humidity and rainfall required careful attention to ventilation, moisture control, and natural light. Incorporating a central courtyard - an unusual feature in this region –posed challenges for airflow and daylight. The roof’s slope was inverted, facing inward rather than the traditional outward, to improve sea views and light penetration.

The client envisioned a coastal family villa with uninterrupted views of the Caspian Sea. The design responds by balancing comfort and contemporary living with sensitivity to the region’s northern climate, while shaping spaces that fully embrace natural light, sea breezes, and the surrounding landscape.

The house is oriented so its iwan opens toward the sea to the north. A central courtyard channels the sea breeze throughout the home, promoting natural ventilation and cooling on warmer days. While courtyards are a hallmark of Iranian architecture, they are less common in the humid, temperate north. Here, its inclusion skillfully balances climate response with cultural form.

However, the inclusion of a courtyard in this design allows for more light to enter the home and lets the sea breeze circulate throughout the interior. Similarly, instead of using an externally sloped roof typical of rainy climates, this design features an upturned foof. This shape provides better views of the sea and allow more light to enter. The building’s four corners taper inward toward the courtyard, which itself includes another feature unique for this area.

A unique feature merges the concepts of the Japanese onsen and the traditional Persian hoz: a private, shallow, and protected pool in of the courtyard. The sun’s path crosses directly above, creating an ideal space to soak up the sun and cool off undisturbed.

Design consideration

The design prioritizes natural ventilation and daylight to reduce energy consumption. Through courtyards, gardens, and a pool, it fosters comfort while respecting the natural environment, seamlessly integrating human experience with nature.

**Scales Considered in Design: **

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

Landscape elements

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