Recognizing the architectural pattern of tea factories in Northern Iran; case study: Pahlavi era tea factories

The main goal of the research is to introduce tea factories and to recognize their architectural patterns, which are considered to be an exclusive example of industrial architecture in northern Iran. Therefore, the research takes into account 6 components and analyzes 4 selected examples of factories, and separates the architectural pattern of each one.

This research is based on quantitative-qualitative method, relying on descriptive-analytical strategies and studying the architectural features of tea factories built in Northern Iran, during the Pahlavi period. Historical studies have been done by referring to historical documents or referring to the archives of Iran Tea Organization and Tea Research Institute.

The analysis of the architecture of tea factories based on 6 components shows the plan, volume, roof structure and type of covering, materials, facade, openings and decorations.  In the 4 examples of tea factories, two are the first Pahlavi examples built by European architects, and in the other two examples from the second Pahlavi period, a combination of modern and traditional architecture is evident in the body of the buildings.

The predominant pattern of tea factories in Iran is an axial plan with a central projection, a sloping roof, row openings and a simple view. It was first performed by German architects in Iran. In the examples of the second side, with the presence of traditional architects and the use of materials such as bricks, the facade was reduced.