VISION

AA Disign Atelier is a practical architectural design studio based in Tehran. The studio has an interdisciplinary approach, which combines the features of culture, health, and ethics in a context-aware and human-centered architecture.

AA design Atelier IR investigates clever ideas that integrate vernacular capabilities of the location (such as materials, construction technology, and labor) with modern engineering knowledge devising in the form of reproducible modules through spatial design and community participation. AA design strategies are to trust in locally existing resources available and apply them to contemporary architecture.

AA Design Atelier was founded by Amir Abbas Aboutalebi in 2008 after his international experiences in Iran, Malaysia, Singapore, Pakistan, Kuwait, UAE, and Norway. Amirabbas Aboutalebi describes architecture as:

Architecture is a powerful tool for enhancing both physical and psychological well-being in humans. It involves the artful integration of culture, sensory elements, scientific principles, climate, and ethical considerations, all within the context of light and spatial arrangements that are responsive to their surroundings and landscape. 

Mission: Education, Publication, Award, Journalism, ....

CRITICAL WORKSHOPS

Amirabbas Aboutalebi, propelled by a fervent desire to advocate for ideological reform within the current educational framework in Iran, has led a series of architecture workshops organized by Villa Magazine. These workshops are meticulously crafted to nurture competence, promote interactive learning, facilitate practical and intensive engagement, and introduce a novel learning approach. By integrating diverse pedagogical elements, these workshops are uniquely tailored to address real-world projects, collaborating with genuine clients and addressing authentic challenges within the educational landscape of Iran.

Amir Abbas Aboutalebi has introduced his workshop model as a tool to challenge the traditional norms of the Iranian educational system. This system, often characterized by its rigidity and resistance to innovative concepts, serves as the focal point of his critical message. By advocating for a transition towards a more dynamic and creative approach, Amirabbas Aboutalebi aims to cultivate the intellectual growth and interactive potential of the emerging generation and talents.

Drawing inspiration from both historical wisdom and contemporary expertise, Amir Abbas Aboutalebi continues to explore opportunities within international academic circles that promote collaboration, trust, and innovation. His endeavor extends beyond refining his technical skills to nurturing his ethical values, personal development, and social acumen in a forward-thinking and inclusive academic environment.

Organizer: Villa Magazine Number of Groups: 10-15
Duration: 3-9 months
Academic Advisor: Dr.Rana Zadeh- Cornell University,
Strategic Advisor: Mohammadreza Haeri- Andisheh Iranshahr
Topic: Architecture, Conception to Completion - real project
Types of Resources: Local wisdom to modern knowledge - Using them to promote experimental learning.
Key to Workshop: Skill Building, Problem-Solving, Increasing Knowledge, Systemic Change, and Personal Awareness through the practical design of a real project with a real client and challenges.
Experimenting Activities: Artwork, Work-sheets, Physical sale modeling, Site visit, Lectures, Discussions, Writings
Planning Activities: Online working, Personal practice, Quizzes, Brainstorming solutions, Goal settings
Key to Workshop Environment: Tacit Knowledge, Arranging the physical and online environment, Creating relationships, Building-trust, and Encouragement. 
Co-Facilitation Skills: Reflecting, Reinforcing, Asking, Questioning, Probing, Paraphrasing, and Self-disclosure, all to increase motivation, Participation, Direct Interactions, Encourage new Behaviors,
Other Activities: Group sharing, Games, Music, Storytelling, Guided Fantasies, Brainstorming
Year: 2017-2024
Model: A combination of all pedagogical elements-centered methods in Iran, providing a competitive environment, which introduces the winning project to the client for the construction phase.
Prototype : Concept to construction

Text provided by the Villa Magazine editorial board.