New Building of Islamic Consultative Assembly

The New Building of Iran's Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament) at the Baharestan Complex in central Tehran is one of the most distinctive civic structures in Iran. Designed by Polmir Consultants under the direction of Abdolreza Dokani, the building features a striking triangular pyramid form clad in stone, rising from the administrative building at 45 meters to the commissions' building level. The triangle shape was selected for its formal resistance, its symbolic allusion to the three branches of government, and its geometric expandability. Originally conceived in 1352-53 SH (1973-74), the project underwent significant changes through political transitions before being completed in 1380 SH (2001). The interior design draws on traditional Persian architectural motifs, with hand-plastered gypsum ceilings featuring muqarnas patterns rendered in modern triangular geometry. The main hall accommodates nearly 300 members of parliament with seating for 800 spectators. A strip of light at the intersection of the two roof wings serves as both an expansion joint and a source of delicate natural illumination, covered with 3-to-12-meter glass panels. The building includes a smart BMS system for climate control and was acoustically evaluated by the British firm Sandy Brown.