After a competition between over 100 firms, AGi Architects, in collaboration with Shift Process Practice, have received 2nd prize for their proposal for a mixed-use city complex in Mashhad, Iran. The design includes commercial and residential units, in addition to a clinic, an aparthotel and various public spaces. The proposal breaks the mold of large retail centers that blunt street culture and have large carbon footprints by diversifying the building uses at street level.

Courtesy of 2R Studio and Ethan Karimi

After a competition between over 100 firms, AGi Architects, in collaboration with Shift Process Practice, have received 2nd prize for their proposal for a mixed-use city complex in Mashhad, Iran. The design includes commercial and residential units, in addition to a clinic, an aparthotel and various public spaces. The proposal breaks the mold of large retail centers that blunt street culture and have large carbon footprints by diversifying the building uses at street level.
Courtesy of 2R Studio and Ethan Karimi

The site massing acknowledges the Mashhad Mausoleum, an important pilgrimage site, with most of the residential units facing the sanctuary. The facades are inspired by Persian architecture, using patterns found on typical Persian dywan structures.

Courtesy of 2R Studio and Ethan Karimi

The commercial area is organized as a continuous topograp...