Gran Miras Rashidiyeh Hotel, Iran

Lighting Design of Gran Miras Rashidiyeh Hotel – A Narrative of History Through Light.

The Gran Miras Rashidiyeh Hotel, with its unique architectural style and intricate artistic details, took 12 years to design and construct. Inspired by authentic Persian architecture, the building showcases exquisite decorative brickwork, Qajar-style tilework, ornamental stucco, grand Muqarnas, and masterful stone carvings. Complementing these elements are wooden ceilings, intricately carved wooden doors, and stained-glass windows, creating an extraordinary façade that captivates every observer.

Lighting Beyond Illumination – A Storytelling Approach

The lighting design of this project was not merely about illuminating the façade; here, light serves as a storyteller. Our goal was to use light as a powerful medium to reveal every intricate detail of the architecture and its historical essence, allowing viewers to embark on a mesmerizing journey through time.

Lighting Design Approach and Key Principles

1. Highlighting Architectural Details with Thoughtful Illumination

The lighting concept was developed to enhance the authenticity of the architecture while creating a warm, inviting, and timeless atmosphere. To achieve this, we meticulously selected light temperatures and sources that best complemented each material:

Brick walls – Illuminated with 3000K lighting, bringing out the warmth and texture of the historical structure.

Colourful tiles and turquoise bricks: Enhanced with 4000K lighting, ensuring clarity and vibrancy of colours.

Wooden ceilings and decorative woodwork: Accentuated using 1900K lighting, evoking a sense of tradition and nostalgia.

2. Seamless Integration with the Historical Architecture

To maintain harmony with the classic Persian style, the pole lights used in this project were carefully selected to:

-Illuminate the horizontal surfaces (ground level) effectively.
-Minimize the impact on vertical surfaces, ensuring that all focus remains on the architectural beauty of the façade.

3. Concealing Light Sources for a Pure Architectural Experience

One of the greatest challenges in this project was concealing the light sources to prevent visual clutter while preserving the building’s authentic aesthetic. To address this:

– Small, discreet fixtures were chosen to minimize visibility.
– Lighting elements were hidden behind decorative features, such as Muqarnas, carved stone details, and wooden elements, ensuring an elegant and subtle illumination.

Final Outcome

The lighting design of Gran Miras Rashidiyeh Hotel not only preserves and highlights the grandeur of its architecture but also creates a dreamlike and unforgettable nighttime ambiance. This project demonstrates a harmonious interplay between light and historical materials, allowing passersby to experience a visual journey through Persian heritage, art, and culture in a single glance.