The project comprises two buildings: a 14 storey office block with three floors of underground parking and services and a low-rise public facility with auditorium that takes its form from the prow of a ship. The steel structure and lightweight aluminium cladding are resistant to earthquake damage and large areas of glazing frame spectacular views of Tehran. Peripheral access routes acknowledge future plans for the site and vertical circulation and servicing ensures efficient use of space. These are zoned to the west where natural light is most poor, which also allows for flexible, open-plan offices to encourage interaction between employees.

Source:
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture, 2011.