Local and Vernacular Architecture of Iran, Bushehr — Documentary "In Longing for the Wind"
Hamid Akbari
Finalists of the 25th Memar Award — 1404
Winners of the 25th Memar Award — 1404
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Semifinalists — Public Buildings
The Editor
Iranian-American architect and co-founder of Hariri & Hariri Architecture in New York. Graduate of Cornell University. Known for innovative designs that blend technology with nature. Her work spans residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Served as juror for the 10th Memar Award (2010).
Iranian-German architect based in Hamburg.
Iranian-American architect and co-founder of Hariri & Hariri Architecture in New York. Graduate of Cornell University. Her work explores the intersection of art, architecture, and technology, creating spaces that respond to both environmental and human needs. Served as juror for the 10th Memar Award (2010).
The tenth edition of the Memar Award marked a turning point as the final chapter of the award's first decade. For the first time, the jury consisted entirely of five prominent Iranian architects practicing abroad: Hadi Tehrani (Hamburg), Nader Tehrani (MIT/Boston), Gisue and Mojgan Hariri (New York), and Nasrin Seraji (Paris/Vienna). This unique composition brought an international perspective to the evaluation of Iranian contemporary architecture, resulting in selections that surprised many by emphasizing cultural heritage preservation and renovation alongside new construction. With 144 submissions — a record high — the results sparked productive debate about the direction of Iranian architecture. The jury identified key architectural trends including clear volumetric expression, reduced quality gaps between Tehran and provincial cities, innovative use of traditional and modern materials, and increased attention to sustainability.
Iranian-American architect based in Boston. Dean of architecture at Cooper Union. Co-founder of NADAAA.
The jury sessions were held over two days (October 16-17, 2010). In the first phase, jurors eliminated projects through two rounds of voting, reducing 93 residential to 13 and 49 public to 10 semifinalists. In the semifinal stage, after viewing project films and discussions, 6 residential and 4 public finalists were selected, plus 2 residential and 3 public honoured projects. In the final stage, winners of first through third place were chosen in both categories. Scoring was on a 1-10 scale.
Mohammad Majidi is an Iranian architect born in Tehran in 1967. He graduated with a Master's degree in Architecture from Shahid Beheshti University in 2002 and founded Bonsar Architects in 1996. Under his leadership, the studio has completed over 100 projects and received numerous national and international awards. Notable works include the Charsou Bazaar commercial center in Tehran (2012-2015, 67,150 sqm), the Chizari Residential Apartment, and the Mottahari Office Building. He served as a jury member for the 13th Memar Award in 2013 and is a frequent speaker at design critique sessions and architectural conferences.
Tehran
Mohammadreza Khoshfekari is an Iranian architect recognized for his contributions to contemporary residential architecture through his success in the Memar Awards. His work frequently features clean, modernist lines and a focus on the integration of natural light.
Mohammadreza Ghanei is a prominent Iranian architect and co-founder of Polsheer Architects, recognized for his context-driven and sustainable designs. He has won multiple Memar Awards for landmark projects that successfully integrate modern forms with traditional Iranian architectural concepts.
Zanjan
Hamed Badri Ahmadi is a prominent Iranian architect and founder of Boozhgan Architectural Studio, recognized for his context-driven and sculptural designs. His work has earned multiple Memar Awards and has been featured on major international platforms like ArchDaily.
Tehran
Sara Kalantari is an Iranian architect and co-founder of TDC Office in Tehran, established in 2002 with her partner Reza Sayadian. She graduated from the Central Branch of Tehran Azad University and has taught design at the same institution. Kalantari's work focuses on dynamic facades and innovative residential design. Her Danial Apartment and Saba Apartment projects have earned international recognition, including the Chicago International Architecture Award (2012 and 2016), the World Architecture Festival shortlist (2018), the Architizer A+ Award (2017), the Asia Architecture Award in Vienna (2016), and an honorable mention at the Venice Biennale (2015).
Winners of the 10th Memar Award (1389)
Building Materials
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