BUILD Q4 2019

52 BUILD Q4 2019 Aug19040 Versatility. Efficiency. Adaptability. Established in the US in 2007, Taheri Architecture is a full-service planning, architectural and interior design firm that works in the residential, commercial and industrial spheres. Following the firm’s recognition in BUILD’s 2019 Architecture Awards, we spoke with President and Architect Roya Taheri to find out more about her work. ersatility defines Taheri Architecture’s broad portfolio of work, showcasing an uncanny ability to cater to the needs of the residential, commercial, educational and industrial sectors – no simple task, but one that Roya and fellow Architect Massoud seem to achieve with a seamless- ness and ease. “We specialize in K-12 Schools, Higher Education Facilities, Libraries, Offices, Shopping Complexes, Health Care and Elderly Care Facilities, Governmental and Light Industrial, Transportation, Banks, Recreational and Cultural Centers as well as Residential Buildings.” - Roya Taheri, PhD, AIA, LEED AP Though they originally established themselves in the UK in 1997, it’s the firm’s work in the US which has served to highlight Roya’s exceptional talent for integrating small details and func- tionality throughout her spaces. More recently, Taheri Architec- ture has revelled in the opportunities presented in the sustaina- bility space, embracing the challenge to create green, clean and energy-efficient environments. Of particular note are their significant achievements in specialist architecture, with the Philadelphia International Airport ‘Quiet Room’ being chief among them. Uniting symbolism with careful consideration taken to functionality and form, the ‘Quiet Room’ offers a peaceful respite for travellers and visitors to pray and seek a moment to reflect. A challenge was in creating an envi- ronment that was space efficient –it was originally just a small storage room, with exposed utility pipes and equipment, that had to be tactfully modified into a Meditation Room. The result is re- freshingly modern, sophisticated and truly fit for purpose. But this is just one example of the firm’s exceptional ability to overcome project constraints and exceed expectations across the board. Yet, when it comes to the future, Roya is eager to expand further, exploring the full scope of their services: “As a firm, we would like to expand and take further steps in the protection and improvement of the built and natural environment.” Ultimately, it is the latter point which remains the focus for Taheri Architec- ture, especially as the industry moves to incorporate a sort of symbioses between the natural and the manmade. Dr. Roya Taheri, AIA, LEED AP With a doctorate in Building Environmental Engineering from Japan, as well as a Master’s degree in Architectural Design, and over thirty years of research and practice, Roya specialises in designing energy efficient buildings that are in harmony with their surroundings. She excels in incorporating sustainable and passive solar design throughout applicable projects. Massoud Mohadjeri, AIA, PP Massoud has Master’s degrees in Architecture and City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania; and a Master’s degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Tehran. Combin- ing this with his 25 years of Architectural Practice at the Gibson Tarquini Group, Inc. and his experience as President and CEO of Allied Design Build, Inc (dba Allied Homes), Massoud brings an extensive expertise in project management, client liaison, and construction document supervision to Taheri Architecture. V Name: Roya Taheri, PhD, AIA, LEED AP Address: 279 W. Tulpehocken St., Philadelphia, 19144, Pennsylvania, United States Website: http://taheriarch.com/ Telephone: +1 215-600-9812