Silver Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2024
Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel
by Nima Keivani
- A' Design Award 2024 Silver Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2024
- CLIENT: Keivani Architects
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 23,988
- Verification code 4DF09793DA · Verify this award
About Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel
The interior merges the old with the new, elements meet functionality. The interior utilizes the existing brickwork and arched ceilings to frame a space that feels open yet intimate. Furnishings are selected for comfort and practicality, with a restrained palette that draws attention to the building’s original features. Lighting is strategically placed to highlight the textures and form of the space without overwhelming it. This design approach allows the history of the structure to stand at the forefront, providing a serene backdrop for modern living.
Drawing upon centuries of regional building wisdom while articulating a distinctly contemporary vision of hospitality, Nima Keivani's Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel presents a masterful synthesis of inherited architectural vocabulary and modern spatial refinement. The barrel-vaulted ceiling, executed in carefully laid brick coursing, evokes the structural poetry of traditional covered markets and historic inns, yet its pristine execution and minimal intervention suggest a design sensibility informed by contemporary minimalism's appreciation for material honesty. The composition achieves remarkable balance between the monumental gesture of the enveloping vault and the intimate scale of human occupation below, with furnishing selections that honor both comfort and aesthetic restraint. The large-scale painting positioned as visual terminus introduces iconographic richness through its stylized figuration, suggesting possible connections to regional folk traditions and devotional art while functioning compositionally as chromatic counterweight to the predominant earthen palette. Keivani demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how material authenticity generates atmosphere, allowing the natural variations in brick tone and mortar rhythm to provide visual texture without ornamental addition. The lighting strategy deserves particular recognition for its theatrical subtlety, combining concealed sources that wash surfaces with warm ambient glow alongside focused illumination that transforms the central artwork into a luminous presence. The traditional carpet grounds the space in cultural memory while its faded patina suggests the accumulated time that luxury hospitality seeks to evoke. One might observe how the cylindrical pendant fixtures mediate between architectural scale and human proportion, their bronze materiality establishing dialogue with the warm masonry while their modernist geometry signals contemporary intervention. The visitor is invited to consider how spaces of rest and nourishment have been constructed across cultures and centuries, and how this particular environment extends those traditions while creating its own distinct sense of welcoming sanctuary.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel in Yazd, Iran, is a heartfelt renovation of an Afshar era historical house. Marrying modern design elements with traditional Persian patterns, the interior design weaves a narrative of romance and heritage. Unique features like custom-designed furniture inspired by cypress trees and a fusion of modern lighting with classic textiles pay homage to the city's craft traditions, creating an intimate ambiance. The unique interplay of textures and locally inspired motifs
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Site dimensions, Width 15 m x 32 m
Total area, 1000 square meter
Site are, 460 square meter - Tags
- Iranian Interior design, Iranian traditional Interior, Nima Keivani, Keivani Architects, Sina Keivani, Boutique Hotel, Persian interior Design, Iranian historical House, Rehabilitation of heritage
- Production Technology
- The hotels design leverages both time honored techniques and modern methodologies Employing traditional materials like mud bricks and textiles combined with modern production technologies showcases the craftsmanship of Yazd Techniques like hand sewn Suzani textiles custom glasswork for the unique bath and modernized versions of Arabesque windows blend the old with the new symbolizing the cities evolution.
- Design Challenge
- The challenge was integrating modern amenities into the historic fabric without disrupting its essence. We meticulously restored traditional elements, ensuring they harmonize with modern interventions. Navigating historical preservation laws, we used local craftsmanship and materials, leading to a design that feels both ancient and alive, reflecting Yazd's social and historical context. Extensive research into traditional Yazdi crafts informed the material palette.
- Project Duration
- The project started in March 2021 in Yazd/Iran and finished in October 2023 in Yazd/Iran
- Operation Flow
- In Delbara khane, operation and flow are designed for intuitive discovery, encouraging guests to connect with the space organically. Offers an immersive experience where guests interact with a blend of history and modernity. The design enhances the flow of natural light and preserves the intimacy of spaces, ensuring each room feels like a private sanctuary. The interaction between the hotel's heritage and the contemporary elements is seamless, providing guests with comfort and a sense of connection to Yazd's romantic past.
- Research
- Research involved a comprehensive study of Afsharid architecture, artisan techniques, and material heritage and contemporary traditional art. Collaborative efforts with historians and local artisans ensured cultural integrity, while prototype testing in lighting and textiles ensured modern standards were met. The resultant design is a balanced ecosystem of historical reverence and present-day relevance.
- Inspiration
- Inspired by the romantic lore of the original house, built for a beloved but left unfinished due to her demise, the hotel design strives to capture the essence of love lost and found. The design is a tribute to timeless affection, with spaces curated to evoke feelings of intimacy and serenity, drawing from the poetic beauty of Yazd's traditional arts and crafts that its artisanal wealth, while also catering to modern expectations of comfort and luxury.
- Image Credits
- Image #1: Illustrator Nima Keivani, Narenjestan Room, 2023.
Image #2: Illustrator Nima Keivani, SHah Neshin Room, 2023.
Image #3: Illustrator Nima Keivani, SHah Neshin Room, 2023.
Image #4: Illustrator Nima Keivani, Burnt Room, 2023.
Image #5: Illustrator Nima Keivani, Restaurant Space, 2023. - Patents
- Copyrights: "Copyrights belong to Nima Keivani, 2022."
Colors of Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel
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Design Interview about Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel
Delbar Khaneh draws inspiration from Persian architecture during the Afsharid era and is deeply rooted in the poetic essence of Persian culture. The design reflects a love story intertwined with the site’s historical narrative, celebrating emotions, memories, and timeless beauty through architecture.The project blends traditional aesthetics with contemporary luxury, reflecting timeless craftsmanship while offering modern functionality.
The focus was on preserving and evoking the romance of the past while offering a luxurious experience. The design captures a narrative of love and longing, making guests feel as if they’re stepping into a Persian poem brought to life. The goal was to create a sanctuary of emotion, culture, and comfort. The primary focus was to create a dialogue between past and present, seamlessly merging historical identity with modern hospitality standards.
Delbar Khaneh is envisioned as a flagship boutique hotel that can serve as a template for similar cultural restoration projects. The next steps include promoting its cultural significance and potentially franchising the concept for similar locations in Iran and beyond.Delbar Khaneh’s love story provides a unique marketing angle, making it ideal for becoming a destination for romantic getaways and weddings. Plans include enhancing its narrative through curated experiences, such as storytelling evenings, themed events, and cultural workshops that celebrate love and Persian heritage.
The project took approximately one year to design, including historical research, concept development, and architectural planning, ensuring that every detail honored the historical context while meeting modern hospitality requirements.
The inspiration came not just from the architectural heritage but from a local legend of two lovers separated by fate, which the site is said to embody. The design honors this tale of enduring love, blending it with the cultural and historical significance of the space.The project was commissioned by a client passionate about restoring historical Iranian architecture. This aligned perfectly with my inspiration to revive traditional designs while adapting them for modern uses.
The design is exclusive to this boutique hotel and currently not sold or leased for reproduction. However, future adaptations for similar heritage restoration projects are possible under our studio’s management.
Heritage restoration is a personal passion, and Delbar Khaneh allowed me to contribute to preserving and showcasing Persian culture. It’s an opportunity to bring historical architecture into a modern context, making it accessible and appreciated by new generations. Also This project was an opportunity to tell a story through architecture—a tale of love, culture, and heritage. The idea of preserving a historical narrative while allowing visitors to feel part of a romantic legend made this project particularly compelling.
My brother Sina Keyvani and I designed it together. In general, we always work together and brainstorm ideas and then we talk and collaborate regularly during the design process.
The target audience includes cultural tourists, architecture enthusiasts, and luxury travelers who value unique and immersive experiences. It caters to individuals seeking authentic, high-end stays rooted in cultural identity.
Delbar Khaneh is not just a boutique hotel but a vessel for storytelling. Its design incorporates elements symbolizing love and connection, from the interwoven geometric patterns to the intimate courtyards. It’s a place where architecture and narrative unite to create an unforgettable emotional experience. Delbar Khaneh stands out for its meticulous balance of preserving historical integrity while integrating cutting-edge amenities. Its ability to harmonize cultural storytelling with luxury sets it apart from other boutique hotels.
“Delbar Khaneh,” meaning “House of the Beloved,” pays homage to the site’s love story and its architectural charm. The name reflects both the intimate atmosphere and the romantic legacy tied to the hotel’s history, making it a fitting tribute to the tale that inspired it.
We utilized 3D modeling software such as Rhino and Revit for spatial planning and Autodesk’s visualization tools for rendering. Additionally, hand sketches played a significant role in conceptualizing traditional patterns and details.
The most unique aspect is how the architecture embodies a love story. From the romantic courtyards to the light play through lattice windows that symbolize unity and separation, every detail resonates with themes of love and connection, making it deeply emotional and cultural. َAlso the standout feature is the seamless integration of traditional Persian elements, such as tile mosaics and wooden lattice windows, into a modern, functional boutique setting. The harmonious blending of eras creates a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
The project involved a team of historians, artisans, and skilled craftsmen to ensure historical accuracy and authenticity. Specialists in Persian tiling and stucco art contributed significantly to the detailing.
Advanced modeling and rendering tools were critical in visualizing and refining the design. Additionally, modern engineering solutions ensured the structure adhered to contemporary safety and sustainability standards without compromising authenticity.
Extensive research into Afsharid architecture, including field visits to historical sites and consultation with cultural experts, informed the design. Data on modern hospitality trends helped optimize functionality. We also conducted extensive research into the history of this house, which ultimately led to the discovery of its unique story. Our curiosity and study began when we discovered, through field studies and layering, that parts of the house were never finished.
Balancing historical preservation with modern standards was a significant challenge. Ensuring that the structure met modern safety and comfort standards while maintaining its cultural authenticity required innovative solutions. Another challenge was interpreting the love story architecturally without over-romanticizing the space. Balancing the emotional narrative with practical functionality required careful planning to ensure guests felt the romance without compromising comfort or modern standards.
The decision to submit Delbar Khaneh to an international design competition stemmed from its unique narrative and cultural significance. The project transcends architecture, blending design with a timeless love story and Persian heritage. I believed it deserved global recognition for its ability to evoke emotion while showcasing the artistry of Persian craftsmanship. Winning such awards not only validates the cultural and creative aspects of the design but also provides a platform to share the story of Delbar Khaneh with a wider audience, inspiring others with its poetic and architectural fusion.
The project reinforced the importance of collaboration between architects, historians, and artisans. It also deepened my understanding of how traditional architecture can be revitalized for modern use.
Delbar Khaneh represents a blueprint for cultural sustainability, showing how architecture can preserve heritage while remaining relevant. It’s a testament to how design can bridge the past and the future. Delbar Khaneh is more than a design; it’s a journey through Persian art, love, and heritage. By intertwining architectural beauty with the emotional weight of its love story, the project exemplifies how spaces can transcend functionality and become living, poetic experiences.
This version ties the love story directly into the design, enriching its narrative appeal while maintaining the architectural and professional context.
This version ties the love story directly into the design, enriching its narrative appeal while maintaining the architectural and professional context.
Grand Interview about Delbar Khaneh Boutique Hotel
In Delbar Khaneh, we approached preservation as a dialogue between past and present. Authentic elements like vaulted ceilings and traditional plasterwork were carefully restored, while contemporary luxuries, such as custom glass baths and ambient lighting, were subtly introduced to complement the historical framework. By harmonizing these aspects, we retained the soul of the Afshar era while ensuring modern comfort, achieving an equilibrium of authenticity and innovation.
The narrative of love and loss became the soul of the design. Every space was crafted to evoke intimacy and connection. For example, the Burnt Room symbolizes renewal through its bold palette, while the Narenjestan Room creates a serene, dreamlike atmosphere. By blending traditional crafts with soft lighting and fluid forms, we sought to immerse guests in an emotional journey that echoes the poetic beauty of Yazd’s culture.
Collaborating with Yazd’s artisans was pivotal. The Suzani textiles in the Shah Neshin Room and the hand-carved wooden lattices reflect centuries-old craftsmanship. The mirror work in the New Shah Neshin Room, modernized with geometric patterns, honors a Persian tradition while introducing a contemporary aesthetic. These partnerships enriched the project with authenticity and cultural depth, making each detail a tribute to Yazd’s heritage.
Our lighting strategy emphasized interplay between natural and artificial light. Skylights and latticed windows illuminate spaces organically, while modern fixtures enhance the historic textures. Ambient lighting fosters intimacy, while accent lights highlight details like mirror work, creating a layered narrative of light that merges function with emotion.
The cypress tree, a symbol of resilience in Persian culture, guided our designs. We abstracted its form into minimalist, modern furniture that fits the hotel’s dual identity. For example, the full-length mirror’s silhouette echoes the cypress, blending traditional symbolism with modern functionality. Each piece reflects local heritage while meeting contemporary aesthetic and ergonomic standards.
We emphasized a journey-like spatial experience, ensuring pathways felt natural and intuitive. By maintaining the courtyard as the heart of the structure, we allowed rooms to flow seamlessly around it, preserving the intimacy of a traditional Persian home. Spatial layering, strategic openings, and adaptive use of light guided guests to explore while ensuring every corner retained its charm.
One surprising discovery was the ingenuity of traditional Yazdi cooling systems, which inspired modern adaptations in the project’s ventilation design. Another was the use of plaster reliefs as storytelling elements, leading us to incorporate narrative-driven details, such as geometric mirror mosaics that symbolize unity and fragmentation. These insights allowed us to innovate while respecting tradition.
We prioritized textiles that conveyed a sense of warmth and history. Suzani patterns were chosen for their intricate storytelling, echoing the project’s romantic roots. These textiles were paired with minimalist furniture to balance tradition and modernity, offering guests a tactile connection to Yazd’s artisanal legacy while enhancing comfort and visual depth.
We devised solutions like embedding modern HVAC systems within historic walls and using modular fixtures to minimize structural alterations. Features like custom glass baths and hidden wiring ensured modern functionality while respecting the building's integrity. These innovations preserve heritage while meeting hospitality standards.
Delbar Khaneh serves as a blueprint for merging historical preservation with modern needs. By showcasing the value of local craftsmanship and adaptive design, it highlights how cultural heritage can be reinterpreted for contemporary use. I hope it inspires a new generation of architects to approach preservation with innovation, ensuring Iran’s rich history remains alive in modern contexts.