Salt Palace, Aran and Bidgol — 2nd Place: Public Buildings

2nd Place: Salt Palace, Aran and Bidgol Location: Aran and Bidgol, Maranjab Client: Isfahan Cultural Heritage Organization / Design associates: Neda Khorshidifar, Maryam Pourdehghan / Structure: Amir Sattarzadeh / Construction: Seyyed Morteza Razavi / Photo: Mohammad Hassan Etefagh / Built area: 168 sqm / Site area: 266 sqm Mehrdad Iravanian The Salt Palace, on the edge of the Maranjab salt lake in Aran and Bidgol, is a public space for visitors to this natural area. Inspired by the region's natural phenomena — salt crystals, the crystalline surface of the lake, and the endless desert horizon — the designer has created a light, transparent structure that engages in a dynamic dialogue with its surroundings. The building's structure consists of metal plates and glass that, like salt crystals, merge interior and exterior spaces. The roof is executed as angled plates reminiscent of the natural forms of salt crystals. Beyond its function as a rest stop, this pavilion also serves as a work of art set within nature. The selected materials were chosen in consideration of the harsh climatic conditions — extreme heat, salt moisture, and desert winds — and despite its light and delicate appearance, the building demonstrates good resistance to the region's atmospheric elements.