An undulating brick roof in Iran that’s made for walking

The undulating brick roof of the Termeh building in Iran doubles as a seating and walking structure for the public. Architects Farshad Mehdizadeh and Ahmad Bathaei designed the mixed-use building as a connection between adjacent boulevards inspired by traditional handwoven Iranian cloth.

The building houses a retail space on the ground floor and offices on the upper level. Its undulating roof meets the pavement and functions as a public space where people can walk, sit and play. The retail space invites passers-by to enter the building.

“I don’t describe the roof as a staircase because stairs are an element that repeats, but this element has different scenarios, dynamics and qualities for people going up though that wave-like form,” said Mehdizadeh about the roof design. “People can sit or play on it like a small plaza. Stairs have a function, but this element performs in public space,” he added.

The brick exterior rises from ground level and sweeps upwards to form vertical slits which provide natural lighting to the upper floors. These openings are wide enough to permit ample daylighting, while also protecting the interior from harsh weather conditions. A second entrance to the building is located around the corner and provides direct connection between parking spaces, workspaces, and the roof terrace.