We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Rezvan Yarhaghi ("RY").
Rezvan Yarhaghi is an architect and construction supervisor with over six years of experience based in Kermanshah, Iran. She began her professional journey studying graphic design at an art school, which shaped her skills in visual communication. Later, she pursued a degree in architecture to explore spatial design on a broader scale. Her work focuses on integrating creative thinking with practical solutions for local building projects. She contributes to the built environment through both design and supervision of residential and commercial developments.
Rezvan Yarhaghi Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Rezvan Yarhaghi.
Rezvan Yarhaghi Design - Taravat Villa Residential
Designer Interview of Rezvan Yarhaghi:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
RY : I began my creative journey with a background in graphic design, which laid the foundation for my visual language. However, it was architecture that captured my soul — a field where art, science, and humanity converge. Since my university years, I’ve felt that architecture is the mother of all arts. My passion for cities, people, and the built environment shaped my calling as an architect.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
RY : i work as a freelance architect that blends traditional Iranian architecture with modernist principles. I collaborate with both local and international clients on residential, commercial, and cultural projects. Although I do not operate from a formal office space, I manage all aspects of the design process independently and often coordinate with engineers, craftsmen, and consultants remotely
DI: What is "design" for you?
RY : Design is a medium to connect soul, space, and society. It’s not just about function or aesthetics — it’s a moral responsibility to serve people, history, and nature.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
RY : I enjoy designing homes and public spaces that reflect cultural identity while serving contemporary needs. Therapeutic and spiritual spaces, especially those inspired by Persian architecture, are my favorite.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
RY : One of my favorites is a courtyard home inspired by Persian traditions, featuring stained glass, colorful tiles, and a peaceful central garden. It represents a harmony between past and present.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
RY : The first thing I designed for a client was a residential renovation project for a private client, not a company. It was a freelance commission to revitalize an old house, incorporating traditional Iranian elements with functional modern updates. This project helped me explore how cultural identity and contemporary needs can coexist harmoniously in architecture
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
RY : In the spirit of Kheshtineh, where traditional Iranian architecture meets modern design, I favor brick for its cultural depth and aesthetic warmth. I utilize SketchUp and AutoCAD for drafting and modeling, Revit for BIM workflows, and Midjourney to visualize poetic atmospheres that inspire my architectural concepts
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
RY : Late at night, when silence reigns and the world sleeps. I’m a night owl; my mind is most active when I can connect inward.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
RY : I focus on context, emotion, and materiality — how a space feels, how it engages the senses, and how it responds to climate and culture.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
RY : A mix of excitement, wonder, and deep presence. Designing is like entering a meditative flow state.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
RY : A deep sense of fulfillment and humility. It’s powerful to see people inhabit and interact with a space I once imagined
DI: What makes a design successful?
RY : A design is successful when it uplifts human experience, honors its environment, and resonates with its users.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
RY : Authenticity, contextual sensitivity, and emotional resonance.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
RY : Designers must be guardians of culture and nature. We have a duty to create spaces that are inclusive, sustainable, and soulful.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
RY : Design is becoming more interdisciplinary. The future lies in smart, sustainable architecture rooted in tradition but driven by innovation.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
RY : I haven't held a formal exhibition yet. However, I have shared my works through online platforms and portfolio reviews.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
RY : Nature, Persian poetry, historical architecture, and conversations with people. I constantly study cities and traditional Iranian buildings.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
RY : A fusion of minimalism and mysticism — I call it Neo-Persian. It’s characterized by arches, courtyards, earthy tones, and cultural narratives.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
RY : I live in Kermanshah, Iran — a city rich in cultural and historical heritage. The traditions, textures, and rituals here deeply influence my architecture.
DI: How do you work with companies?
RY : As a freelance architect, I usually work independently and collaborate directly with clients rather than companies. However, when I do partner with companies, I begin with conceptual sketches and moodboards to align our vision. I value transparency, clear communication, and shared design goals throughout the process
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
RY : Trust your designer, but also communicate clearly. Look for someone who listens, questions, and interprets your needs creatively.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
RY : My process starts with empathy — understanding the user. Then I move to sketching, modeling, prototyping, and refining.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
RY : A mirror A rug My desk A water mug A lamp
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
RY : My day starts late, with herbal tea and journaling. I sketch, research, or meet clients in the online. At night, I work on digital models and reflect.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
RY : Stay curious. Draw every day. Respect tradition. Listen to people. Design with love.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
RY : Positives: creative freedom, purpose, constant growth. Negatives: uncertainty, emotional burnout, and undervaluation.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
RY : Design from the inside out — human experience first.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
RY : Empathy, spatial intelligence, visual literacy, storytelling, and patience.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
RY : SketchUp, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Revit, hand sketching tools, books on Iranian architecture, and poetry by Hafez and Rumi.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
RY : I work in focused bursts, following the Pomodoro method. I also reflect weekly to adjust my pace.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
RY : It varies — from a few days to months, depending on complexity and scale.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
RY : Can you make it more traditional yet modern?
DI: What was your most important job experience?
RY : My most important job experiences include the restoration and renovation of residential homes, the design of modern villas incorporating traditional Persian elements, and a conceptual design for a gold market. Each of these projects allowed me to explore different scales and functions while staying rooted in my architectural philosophy.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
RY : Clients include homeowners, local developers, international firms, and artists.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
RY : Cultural and residential projects — because they allow deep storytelling and emotional connection.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
RY : I’m applying for a PhD in architecture in the U.S. and aim to publish research on the intersection of neuroscience and architecture.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
RY : I usually start alone or sometimes with one of my confidant friend, then collaborate with engineers, artists, and sometimes AI tools.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
RY : Yes — a villa that blends Persian tiles, arches, and smart architecture in a warm climate region.
DI: How can people contact you?
RY : My Gmail address:ryarhaghiii@gmail.com, my Instagram page- my LinkedIn and my website