Mona Khajeh, a Master of Architecture and accomplished architectural designer, has emerged as a visionary in sustainable and residential architecture. Her approach, guided by the belief that a home should be a 'Place of Peace and Rest,' embraces diverse influences, from modern design principles to the cultural and environmental nuances of her native Iran. With an impressive portfolio, a distinctive design philosophy, and a commitment to innovation, Mona’s journey from Iran to the global stage is as inspiring as it is impactful.
A Progressive Path in a Traditional Society
Born into a modern family in Iran—a country with deep-rooted traditions—Mona was the only daughter in her household. Her upbringing was uniquely progressive; she experienced no gender discrimination and grew up viewing herself as an equal to her brothers. This supportive environment gave her the confidence to pursue a career in architecture, a field traditionally dominated by men in Iran’s conservative society. Her early fascination with the creativity and precision of design set her on a path few women in her community would typically undertake. She was inspired by a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and the power of design to transform lives, igniting her journey to become an architect.
Mona’s academic journey began with an undergraduate degree in architecture, which she followed with a Master’s degree in her home country. These studies not only equipped her with technical knowledge but also allowed her to explore the rich architectural heritage of Iran, renowned for its diverse styles and influences. Her travels across Iran and beyond provided her with a unique perspective on the relationship between architecture, climate, and culture. She came to believe that while modern technology has created a globalized aesthetic, architecture must still honor the natural elements that shape each location. Mona's conviction that architecture should be sustainable and culturally harmonious became a cornerstone of her design philosophy.
A Holistic Approach to Design
Mona’s career began in a practical setting as a map control officer at a large contracting company. This role introduced her to the fundamentals of construction and design execution, although she quickly realized that her passion lay in creating new and innovative spaces rather than simply monitoring existing ones. She transitioned to a design role, starting as an assistant designer in Sari, Iran, and eventually becoming a lead designer at Homehr Sazan Construction in Gorgan. This journey allowed her to develop a holistic approach to architecture, where she not only shaped the aesthetics but also addressed the structural, electrical, and mechanical demands of her projects. Her engineering mindset, combined with a deep understanding of construction principles, made her a valuable asset to each team she joined.
One of Mona’s most notable projects was the transformation of a 177-square-meter residential unit in Gorgan into a functional office space for an accounting firm. The client, Hani Ghanbarinia, wanted a workspace that was both modern and reflective of the firm’s financial roots. Mona’s innovative design was inspired by the fluctuations of the stock market, visually represented through non-Euclidean lines and forms that conveyed both stability and fluidity—qualities essential in the financial sector. Parabolic forms in the ceiling provided not only a unique visual element but also a functional cover for infrastructure. This integration of aesthetic and practical design is a hallmark of Mona’s work, where beauty and utility coexist seamlessly.
Balancing Innovation with Client Needs
In her work on the Gorgan office project, Mona demonstrated her ability to balance client requirements with her own creative vision. She introduced modern amenities like a split duct heating and cooling system, a comprehensive fire safety setup, and an advanced lighting scheme that harmonized with the design. She chose color schemes that enhanced spatial perception; for instance, black stone flooring contrasted with white ceilings, making the room appear taller and more expansive. Her choice of neutral tones for the walls helped reduce visual fatigue for the employees, creating a workspace that was both invigorating and comfortable.
Her ability to listen carefully to client needs, coupled with her attention to architectural detail, ensures that each project she undertakes is a true collaboration. Mona believes that the best designs emerge when the architect acts as both a guide and a partner, helping clients envision spaces that go beyond their initial ideas. This collaborative approach has led to long-lasting relationships with clients, who appreciate her dedication to delivering designs that meet both their functional and aesthetic goals.
A Design Philosophy Inspired by Nature and Culture
For Mona, architecture is more than building structures; it’s about creating environments that align with both natural and cultural contexts. Her philosophy is deeply rooted in the idea that buildings should not only serve human needs but also resonate with the surroundings, respecting and enhancing the environment. She is a passionate advocate of sustainable architecture, where the building’s materials, orientation, and layout all work in harmony with local climate and geography. Mona believes that such practices not only extend the life of a building but also reduce its environmental impact, making it an integral part of the landscape.
Her admiration for renowned architect Zaha Hadid has also shaped her design philosophy. As a Middle Eastern woman who broke boundaries in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Hadid serves as a source of inspiration for Mona, who strives to make her own mark in the field of architecture. Like Hadid, Mona is committed to challenging conventions and creating spaces that are both bold and purposeful. She hopes that her success will encourage other young women from the Middle East to pursue careers in architecture, proving that creativity and ambition know no cultural or gender-based boundaries.
Looking Forward: Expanding Horizons in the United States
As Mona looks to the future, her sights are set on the United States, where she aims to broaden her impact and bring her sustainable, culturally sensitive designs to a global stage. She envisions working on projects that will allow her to apply her principles of environmental harmony and advanced building technologies, contributing to communities in meaningful ways. Mona’s dedication to her craft and her vision for a sustainable future makes her a promising addition to the U.S. architectural landscape, where she hopes to design spaces that are not only functional but also foster a sense of peace and rest for their inhabitants.
An Architect with a Purpose
Mona Khajeh’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and vision. From her beginnings in Iran to her current achievements, Mona has consistently pushed the boundaries of what architecture can achieve. Her story is one of perseverance and purpose, a journey that not only enriches the spaces she designs but also inspires those who aspire to make their mark in architecture. For Mona, the future holds endless possibilities, and as she takes her next steps in the United States, she is sure to leave an indelible impact on the field of architecture.
