On November 2004, the winners of the 4th Grand Me'mar Award competition for architecture were announced. As in previous years, a wide range of works participated in the competition. Works submitted can be taken as good statistical samples for evaluating the state of Iranian architecture today. Despite the variety in style and influence, there are many common characteristics in these works. They are indicative of the new currents in architectural design. In the following article, in order to study and identify the characteristics of these new currents, the author, without any categorization, has divided the state of Iranian architecture in the past two decades into three periods.

From the Revolution to the Cultural Academies Competition

After the revolution, construction work continued in practice. However, with the new governmental inclinations and the onset of war, many architects left the country. During this period, there were also a limited number who had the enthusiasm for building. Meanwhile, the pre-revolution construction tradition continued through developers and various engineers.

During this period, architecture was divided into two currents: modern architecture that continued through educated architects, and traditional architecture that was favored by the government. In reality, the confrontation between tradition and modernism in Iranian architecture continued through various periods.

The architecture of this period is characterized by simple modern forms and in some cases traditional ornamentation. The use of arches and brickwork in facades and simple geometric forms were features of this era. Among the most important competitions of this period was the design competition for the Cultural Academies of Iran, which had a significant impact on the course of architecture.

From the Cultural Academies to the Present

The Cultural Academies competition had an important effect on Iranian architecture. The country's most prominent architects participated in it, and this competition became a turning point in the history of contemporary Iranian architecture. From that point on, the professional atmosphere of architecture changed and younger architects entered the scene.

During this period, Iranian architecture gradually moved away from imitation and toward indigenous creativity. The use of local materials, attention to climate and culture, and reinterpretation of traditional architectural elements within modern frameworks were characteristics of this era.

Iranian architecture after the Cultural Academies competition entered a new phase. A greater number of architects were able to showcase their work, and the space for architectural criticism and review expanded. Specialized architecture magazines, including Memar, played an important role in this regard.

In particular, housing construction and the economy are transforming the identity and boundaries of major cities, especially Tehran. Apartment construction has grown in a distinctive way, transforming the urban landscape. Residential architecture, as the major portion of architects' activity, has become the testing ground for new ideas.

During this period, we witness the presence of a new generation of architects who, with academic knowledge and practical experience, have brought fresh creativity to Iranian architecture. The use of new construction technologies, modern materials, and sustainable approaches are hallmarks of their work.

Ultimately, it can be said that contemporary Iranian architecture is transitioning from an imitative period to a creative one, and competitions such as the Grand Memar Award play an important role in this transformation.

The Eighth Decade: Architecture Competitions and the Grand Award

From 2001 (1380 SH), Memar Magazine organized its first Grand Award. The Grand Memar Award was established with the aim of elevating the quality of Iranian architecture and identifying and encouraging outstanding works of architects, and is among the largest architecture competitions in Iran.