"Ragh-Earth" Villa
Editorial
Amir Abbas Aboutalebi, Ladan Mostafa Zadeh
Autumn 2024
Envision a new paradigm for the villa—one that transcends exclusivity and opens the doors to accessible living for all. While this concept may initially appear unattainable to some, 'Ragh-Earth' villas are argued to offer a suitable foundation for these new types of dwellings.
What exactly is the 'Ragh-Earth' villa? The term 'Earth' traditionally refers to structures built using materials sourced directly from the 'Earth'. Formerly, 'Earthen' houses and villas were common architectural choices in Iran, relying on locally developed techniques to enhance their structural resilience. Some of these traditional structures still stand today, and the construction methods remain accessible through local experts. These techniques can be systematically documented, preserved, and shared to support their integration into contemporary practices and to enrich architectural knowledge. A concept which was further refined through interviews and discussions with a German group specializing in earth-based architecture.
'Ragh,' is, indeed an ancient Iranian word revitalized and incorporated into modern Iranian architectural discourse by Dr. Nasser Barati[1]. According to Dr. Barati, 'Ragh' translates to a garden-house examples of which still exist in cities such as Bam[2]. In contemporary terms, a 'Ragh' villa can be understood as a building designed as a retreat from urban life, providing an escape into nature. Therefore, 'Ragh-Earth' villas can be considered Iranian structures built from 'Earth'-based materials, linking architectural heritage with contemporary environmental methods, while also making villas more accessible to a wider range of villa enthusiasts. Moreover, these Iranian structures hold the potential to be extrapolated and applied to the broader Middle Eastern region.
Additionally, the 'Ragh-Earth' villas hold the potential to broaden access to villa living by offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional housing. The construction process incorporates locally-sourced materials, which significantly lower overall costs. These structures are easier to build, relying on simple, traditional techniques that also shorten construction timelines. Furthermore, their eco-friendly nature, including the ability to recycle materials and foster plant growth, makes them suitable for construction on agricultural land, thereby enhancing both their accessibility and sustainability.
In conclusion, traditional 'Ragh' villas were once emblematic of a distinctive architectural style. Likewise, 'Ragh-Earth' villas present a contemporary solution to broaden access to villa living. By utilizing locally sourced materials and sustainable techniques, these villas can cater to a wider demographic, offering an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional housing. Given the scalability of this concept, it will hold the potential to be expanded throughout the Middle East, addressing the growing demand for sustainable and accessible living spaces in the region.
[1] Dr. Nasser Barati, Professor at Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
[2] Bam is an ancient city in southeastern Iran, known for its unique architecture and rich historical significance.