Cantilever House by UC21 Architects in Moshah, Iran

Project: Cantilever House
Architects: UC21 Architects
Location: Moshah, Damavand, Iran
Area: 4,929 sq ft
Photography: Mohammad Hassan Etefagh

Cantilever House by UC21 Architects

The project is located in Moshah, Damavand, about 60 km from Tehran, at an elevation of 2,400 meters above sea level where winters are very harsh.

The plot area is approximately 600 sqm with dimensions of 30 x 20 meters and a slope of 20%. Due to this challenging situation, we aimed to make the most of available spaces and the site to meet client requirements. Therefore, we decided to divide the plot into three parts: the largest part is in the northern section where the road runs. The second part is used for recreational activities, and the third one is a green zone of the site.

Based on this approach, we designed a basement for recreational purposes (including jacuzzi and bar), directly connected to the outdoor recreation area, where there is a heated pool, fireplace, and multi-functional space.

The first floor serves the private zone (bedroom). We designed two different volumes: a smaller one for the client's main bedroom, and a larger one for the entrance to the house and guest rooms. To gain more space and add functionality on this floor, we decided to extend both volumes and rotate them by 30° in the southern part to create an additional bedroom on the western side and expand the main bedroom. Furthermore, extending these volumes allows us to partially cover the pool (useful during snowy winter days) and fully cover the fireplace area. Finally, we projected the northern part of the largest volume to create a house entrance and isolate a small third volume for parking.

The last level (first floor) is used for the leisure zone, also divided into two volumes: one for the living room and another for the kitchen and dining area. These volumes are placed perpendicular to the lower floors to provide additional expansion functions on the first floor: two large terraces. The leisure area is located on the topmost level to enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This concept allowed us to gain more space in the house and also increase green areas, fulfilling all client needs.

The best solution was to create a villa that harmoniously blends with the surrounding mountains, giving it a form reminiscent of them and extending some floor areas by 1 meter to create slopes. This helps with rainwater drainage and fits the natural environment. Moreover, we decided to paint the entire building white so it harmonizes with snow in winter and stands out during summer. Large glass surfaces were used to enjoy beautiful mountain views.

- Project description and images provided by UC21 Architects

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