Afra Residential Building is a standalone housing project located on a prominent boulevard in Mashhad, Iran. As the first new construction in its alley, the building faced the challenge of engaging with a mixed urban context—low-rise, aging structures on one side and the lively, fast-paced boulevard on the other.
The design balances two opposing needs: capturing panoramic urban views while maintaining privacy and tranquility for residents. This was achieved through a fluid, dynamic façade that transforms a strict modular system into a living presence. Its curved and shifting panels create a dialogue with the surroundings—turning towards the street to frame views, while softening the transition to the neighboring context.
Inside, layouts are designed for flexibility and adaptability over time. Spaces allow for multiple furniture arrangements, and semi-concealed areas, such as a partially hidden kitchen, add layers of privacy. Visual connections and separations are carefully managed from the exterior envelope to the interior plan.
The building’s material palette emphasizes durability and tactile quality, with neutral-toned cladding paired with warm finishes to create both harmony and distinction. Afra stands as a neighborhood landmark that respects its setting while offering residents a refined urban living experience.