The Saye Art Gallery, designed and built by architect Babak Baharestani in Tehran, is a testament to the seamless integration of ancient Iranian architectural principles with modern design sensibilities. Situated in a city with a rich history and cultural significance, the gallery stands as a space where architecture and art coexist in harmony, offering both an exhibition space and a unique environment.Designing in a place with such a long and storied history presents both opportunities and responsibilities for architects. Persia, with its centuries-old heritage, serves as a rich backdrop for the gallery’s architectural narrative. The design of the Saye Art Gallery embraces this heritage, creating a contemporary space that resonates with the echoes of ancient Iranian architecture while offering a modern framework for displaying art. The challenge and opportunity lie in balancing respect for historical traditions with the creation of a space that feels relevant and forward-thinking in today’s world. The core concept of the design draws inspiration from the ancient Mithraic temple of Iran. This ancient structure, with its sacred and symbolic use of light, formed the initial ideas for how light would be employed in the Saye Art Gallery.
The Mithraic temple was known for its use of light as both a practical and symbolic element. This ancient use of light becomes central to the experience of the Saye Art Gallery, where light is not just a functional tool but an atmospheric and evocative element that shapes the space. In the gallery’s design, natural light is carefully manipulated to create different moods and experiences within the space. The gallery is flooded with light through strategically placed openings, skylights, and windows, which allow the light to enter from different angles and intensities. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the gallery creates a dynamic atmosphere that evolves throughout the day. As the light shifts, so does the experience of the gallery itself—bringing a sense of time and transformation to the space. The gallery becomes a living, breathing environment, where the art on display is illuminated in ways that accentuate its details and enhance its meaning.
The specific use of natural light in the Saye Art Gallery is reminiscent of the ancient Persian use of light, which was integral to both the architecture and the rituals associated with it. The light in the gallery is designed not just to highlight the artwork but to create an environment that enhances the viewer’s experience. Light becomes a guiding element, leading the viewer through the gallery’s spaces and creating a sense of reverence and contemplation. In this way, the Saye Art Gallery transcends its function as a mere exhibition space—it becomes a space of engagement, where the visitor’s experience is shaped by the subtle play of light, form, and space.
The gallery’s design also pays homage to another key element of ancient Persian architecture: water. Water has always held deep symbolic meaning in Persian culture, representing purity, life, and renewal. In the Saye Art Gallery, water plays an essential role in creating an atmosphere that is serene and reflective. The gallery’s central courtyard features a water feature that serves as both a visual and sensory focal point. The reflective surface of the water mirrors the surrounding architecture, creating a sense of continuity between the interior and the exterior spaces. The water feature acts as a bridge between the gallery’s built environment and the natural world, inviting visitors to pause and reflect before entering the gallery. The gentle sound of water further enhances the tranquil atmosphere of the space, fostering a sense of calm and introspection.
Water is not limited to the exterior courtyard; it also finds its way into the interior spaces of the gallery. In keeping with the ancient tradition of integrating water into architectural design, the use of water in the interior creates a continuous dialogue between the interior and exterior environments. The presence of water inside the gallery adds a layer of depth and complexity to the experience, enhancing the atmospheric quality of the space. This use of water, combined with the light, creates a holistic sensory experience that engages visitors both visually and aurally, allowing them to connect with the space on a deeper level.
The spatial organization of the Saye Art Gallery is another important aspect of the design. The gallery is divided into a series of carefully orchestrated spaces that guide visitors through different experiences. The design balances expansive, open areas with smaller, more intimate rooms, allowing for a variety of interactions with the art. The larger gallery spaces are designed to accommodate large-scale works of art, providing a sense of openness and freedom. These spaces are bathed in natural light, which enhances the visual impact of the art while creating a sense of fluidity and movement. The smaller, more intimate spaces offer a more personal and contemplative environment, inviting visitors to engage with the art in a more focused and introspective manner. The spatial flow of the gallery is designed to encourage exploration, with each room offering a unique atmosphere that contributes to the overall experience.
The gallery is not simply a space to view art—it is a space that enhances the experience of art by creating an atmosphere that encourages reflection, introspection, and engagement. Through its careful manipulation of light, material, and space, the Saye Art Gallery invites visitors to experience art in a way that is deeply connected to the cultural heritage of Persia while embracing the possibilities of modern architecture.