A mysterious white cube that conceals its inner world, revealing itself only toward the garden.
Golafshan House is set on a 1,500-square-metre site in a developing neighbourhood of custom homes outside the city. The open and relatively dry setting had no established natural character, while sudden changes in temperature made the climate unpredictable. With no existing landscape to frame the house, the project began by creating its own green environment.
Location: Mashhad, Iran
Status: Completed, 2021
Architect: Amin Jafari
Interior Designer: Mina Mahdiani
Gross Floor Area: 450 sqm
Three Layers of Living
The plan is organized in three clear layers. Service spaces and circulation—including the staircase, elevator, and corridor—are placed mainly along the northern side, forming a protective layer against the cold winds. The kitchen, living room, and informal lounge are arranged closer to the south-facing garden, allowing the main living spaces to receive light and connect directly with the outdoors.
Sheltered to the North, Open to the South
Privacy and climate played an important role in shaping the house. The northern side, exposed to strong cold winds during winter, was designed as a more protected edge with limited openings. Toward the south, the house gradually opens through terraces, voids, and framed views, creating a stronger connection with the garden and natural light.
Where the Lines Begin to Soften
The house and garden are shaped through contrast. Against the sharp edges, straight lines, and solid white form of the architecture, the landscape follows a softer language inspired by nature. Curved paths, local trees, water, and small planted gardens create changing views and a sense of discovery as residents move through the site. At the heart of the garden, a single tree becomes a focal point, with paths and water flowing around it. Together, these elements create a new ecosystem supported by a smart, water-efficient irrigation system. While the house feels strong and structured, the landscape remains calm, layered, and full of opportunities to pause, explore, and experience the site in different ways.
