Sustainable Residential Complex

Islamic Azad University, Rasht Branch

Project idea

The idea behind this project is to design a 250-unit sustainable residential complex in Rasht, Gilan province, with a bioclimatic architectural approach. The goal is to promote environmental health, optimize resource efficiency, reduce pollution and ecological degradation, and create a climate-responsive environment suitable for the temperate and humid region. Through precise studies and planning, the project aims to establish a sustainable living environment by minimizing energy consumption and environmental pollution.

Project description

The project includes residential blocks strategically oriented and designed to respond to the regional climate. The buildings are rotated 15 degrees southwest to reduce the impact of cold winds. To avoid overshadowing during the winter solstice, the blocks are staggered in height with appropriate spacing—southern blocks are taller than those in the north. Features such as open ground floors (pilotis) enhance ventilation and humidity control, while sloped roofs offer protection from heavy rainfall. The extroverted design includes continuous balconies on the north and south facades to provide shade and prevent driving rain. Multiple openings ensure optimal daylighting and natural ventilation. The east-west single-layer layout enhances airflow throughout the living spaces.

Technical information

This residential complex proposes the use of a steel structural frame combined with steel deck roofing systems, which is a modern and widely used construction method. This combination provides high structural strength and durability, accelerates the construction process, and offers design flexibility for various housing types. Additionally, the selection of materials plays a significant role in the building’s quality and sustainability. White cement and thermowood are used to enhance both aesthetics and durability—particularly in exterior façades. White cement gives a clean, modern appearance, while thermowood, due to its natural resistance to weather conditions, adds warmth and resilience. This material combination is applied not only to the façade but also in interior spaces, contributing to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.