Tehran’s Jahad Metro Plaza Wins Aga Khan Architecture Award
WANA (Sep 07) – Tehran’s Jahad Metro Plaza has been named one of the winners of the prestigious 2025 Aga Khan Award for Architecture, one of the world’s most respected prizes in the field. The project was developed by the Urban Development Organization of Tehran Municipality and designed by Ka Architecture Studio.
The Aga Khan Award for Architecture, established in 1977 by His Highness the Aga Khan IV, is awarded every three years to projects that demonstrate architectural excellence while contributing to culture, community, and environmental sustainability, with a positive impact on people’s lives.
Tehran’s Jahad Metro Plaza. Social media/ WANA News Agency
In its 16th cycle (2023–2025), the jury met in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, reviewed on-site evaluations of finalist projects, and announced seven winners from six countries.
According to the jury, the winners collectively exemplify architecture’s capacity to foster pluralism, social resilience, transformation, cultural dialogue, and climate-sensitive design. Together, the winning projects share a prize fund of $1 million, the largest in the field of architecture.
From Iran, two projects were among this year’s winners:
Jahad Metro Plaza, Tehran – Built on a 2,500 m² site with an 800 m² footprint, the plaza transforms one of Tehran’s busiest urban spaces into a pedestrian-friendly public area. Using locally made bricks and a series of arches, the design allows natural light and air to flow through the space.
Majara-Residence in Hormuz Island. Social media/ WANA News Agency
Its distinctive vaulted form draws from Iranian-Islamic architectural heritage and has already become an urban landmark. The plaza was inaugurated in May 2023 and has significantly improved the quality of this high-traffic area. Special attention was given to accessibility for people with disabilities, and its nighttime lighting design has turned it into one of Tehran’s most recognizable public spaces.
Majara Residence, Hormuz Island – Designed by ZAV Architects under the direction of Mohammadreza Ghodousi, this colorful domed complex provides sustainable accommodations for tourists, as well as facilities for local residents, including a library, prayer space, and gathering areas. The project was built with local labor to boost employment and skills in the community.
This is not Jahad Metro Plaza’s first international recognition — it previously won the 2024 RIBA International Award for Excellence from the Royal Institute of British Architects and the 2023 Dezeen Architecture Award in the UK.
Majara-Residence in Hormuz Island. Social media/ WANA News Agency
