Ehsan Poud Textile Factory was to be built near the main square in the phase2 of the Shokouhieh Industrial Town near Qum City.
Design Process:
There was no special characteristic or iconic feature in the area which could inspire the design of this project. Therefore, a threefold analysis method was used to form a diagrammatic process defining the project:
1. Program Distribution
The project included two production halls, administrative divisions, as well as residences.
The design process was initiated determining the position of the two main production halls. The administrative section and the residences were then positioned at the front. The next attempt was to create a logical relationship between the building and the adjacent square by combining these elements into an integrated plan.
2. Spatial Organization
The idea of an integrated model with various cores was the main design criterion in this project. The spatial diagrams of the project represent how these cores connect to each other to form powerful perspectives. While defining the main entrance of the building, the 70 m long suspended bridge is used to connect the two administrative and residential zones together. Circulation to all parts of the project takes place under this bridge.
3. Form
The shape of the building was formed inspired by the spinning and weaving mechanisms which are the essence of the textile manufacturing. Lines and surfaces wrap around the spatial cores in different sections such as the production halls, the entrance, and the perimeter wall, to create a consistent architectural language throughout the building. To represent this idea in a pure form and to emphasize on the industrial identity of the project, steel and Travertine were the only materials used in this building.
Structure
The structure of the project consists of an exposed truss system which is partially covered with steel plates in some sections. Therefore, the structure itself becomes the main architectural element, forming the spaces.
Ventilation and Mechanical Systems
Considering the dry climate of Qum, an efficient mechanical system was essential to provide the 70% humidity requirement for a textile manufacturing environment. Therefore, two 60,000 ft/m3 air washers as well as a fan coil system were implemented providing heating, cooling, humidity, and fresh air circulation as desired.