Ahmad Lari House's abandonment for the past several decades has left it in a state of disrepair. Therefore, emergency renovations were essential to prevent any further damage that could undermine the building’s integrity and result in irreversible harm. Initiatives have been undertaken since Spring 2019 to prevent the collapse of fragile parts of the building, including the grand reception hall and the exceptional windcatcher.

Deep Cleaning (100% Completed)

It took the equivalent of 350 worker days to remove all debris from the premises. Some basements were filled to the ceiling with debris and household trash, making the removal process challenging and time-consuming. Some rooms were severely damaged due to increased humidity and a lack of proper airflow. The remaining pieces were sorted out to be recycled and reused, such as old bricks and wooden pieces. A total of 25 lorries were used to transport the debris away.

Surveying and Mapping (100% Completed)

A team of young architects from Yazd University studied the structure of the building and took all measurements to prepare three-dimensional plans. The surveying and mapping were necessary for both the national landmark registration dossier and a calculated approach to the restoration process.

Reinforcement & Protection (100% Completed)

After all spaces were cleared for intervention, the renovation team inspected the building for all necessary work to begin. Many ceilings were cleaned, walls repaired, and foundations reinforced. The most vital section of this phase revolves around the Grand reception hall (Taalar-e-Chalipa) and its windcatcher, making the process very sensitive and time-consuming. We invited Yazd’s first-grade artisan masters to consult and reach viable technical solutions.

The principal courtyard, featuring a fountain pool and four gardens, is surrounded by 1,000 sqm of covered space on two levels (ground floor and basement). This area will serve as a public space, aiming to welcome visitors from the general public as well as professional artisans, artists, and architects. We plan to create several dedicated spaces in the area, including:

Hashti Entrance (±32 sqm) (100%)

The grand reception hall will be transformed into a lounge where both visitors and professionals can rest and enjoy the surroundings. The space will also be utilized for cultural events with the goal of promoting the Iranian art scene.

Cultural Lounge (±120 sqm) (95%)

The grand reception hall will continue to serve as a lounge for both visitors and professionals to relax and appreciate the surroundings. Additionally, the space will be utilized for cultural events aimed at promoting the Iranian art scene.

Multi-purpose Workspace (±100 sqm) (80%)

Comprising several zones, the co-working space will be the first of its kind in Yazd. Our objective is to provide the younger generation of art and architecture students with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to assist them with their academic and professional projects.

Artisanal Boutique (±30 sqm)

The primary objective of this boutique is to empower local artisans. We will focus on gathering handmade products from Yazd and its surrounding cities and villages. All proceeds will be reinvested back into the foundation.

Mixed-use Spaces (±40 sqm)

Two modular rooms will be created for use in seminars, talks, gatherings, classroom activities, and workshops.

The renovation and conversion of a small courtyard - 220 sqm - into a small residence will include two ensuite lofts, each with its own bathroom, and a communal area with a kitchenette.

Spaces around this courtyard will primarily focus on the revival of endangered artisanal crafts, mainly from the province of Yazd. A large room will be dedicated to textile weaving, a few to specialized workshops, and the grand kitchen (Matbakh) will be converted into a gallery/function space.