Pouyesh Group: Badab Soort AquaSerene Retreat is more than just a wellness destination—it is a sanctuary of tranquility and renewal, where architecture and nature meet in perfect harmony. The name itself reflects the essence of the experience: “Aqua” for the healing power of water, “Serene” for the sense of calm and mindfulness that permeates the retreat, and “Retreat” for the promise of escape, reflection, and rejuvenation. Together, the name embodies the core mission of the project: to create a space where visitors can immerse themselves in the therapeutic energy of one of the world’s most extraordinary natural landscapes.
Location: The Natural Wonder of Semnan Province
The retreat is located near Semnan Province in northern Iran, in the heart of the Alborz mountain range, at a site renowned for its breathtaking natural phenomenon: the Badab Soort terraces. The terraces glow in shades of orange, red, and gold, contrasting with the striking turquoise pools that reflect the shifting light of the sky. Badab Soort is more than a visual spectacle; it carries deep cultural and natural significance. It is within this extraordinary setting that Badab Soort AquaSerene Retreat takes shape—a fusion of architectural innovation, ecological sensitivity, and timeless traditions of wellness.
Architectural Concept: Where Nature Shapes Design
The design philosophy of Badab Soort AquaSerene Retreat is grounded in the belief that architecture should not compete with nature, but rather emerge organically from it. Inspired by the flowing geometry of the terraces, the retreat adopts a biomimetic approach, translating the language of water and stone into fluid architectural forms. The result is a complex that does not sit upon the land as an imposition, but rather grows out of it, echoing the curves and rhythms of the mineral pools.
The Glass-Domed Meditation Hall
At the heart of the retreat lies the glass-domed meditation hall, positioned right in the middle of the colorful terraces. This dome is designed as both a landmark and a sanctuary: its transparent structure allows uninterrupted views of the surrounding terraces, while the wooden floors ground the interior in warmth and tactility. As sunlight filters through the glass, the shimmering reflections of the turquoise pools dance across the ceiling, creating a living, breathing atmosphere that constantly changes with the rhythm of the day. Inside, visitors experience a seamless fusion of interior and exterior space, where the boundaries between architecture and landscape dissolve into harmony.
Fluid Forms and Vernacular Materials
The architectural language creates flowing, sculptural forms that mirror the cascading terraces. Walkways and platforms extend like gentle waves, offering elevated perspectives of the pools while ensuring minimal environmental intrusion. These pathways are constructed from local stone and polished walnut wood, grounding the retreat in the vernacular materials of the region while maintaining a refined, contemporary aesthetic.
Every element of the retreat is designed to highlight the natural drama of Badab Soort: the mineral-rich waters, the fiery colors of the terraces, and the expansive mountain backdrop. Spaces such as thermal baths, meditation halls, and relaxation lounges are carefully positioned to capture these views, ensuring that the healing experience is not only physical but also deeply visual and spiritual.
The Role of Water in Architecture
The integration of water is central to the design. Pools flow naturally into the retreat’s architecture, blurring the line between built and natural environments. The sound of water becomes a constant presence, guiding guests through spaces and enhancing the meditative atmosphere. As evening descends, subtle lighting accentuates the golden tones of the terraces and the reflective quality of the water, transforming the complex into a luminous sanctuary beneath the night sky.
Philosophy of Wellness and Harmony
In essence, the AquaSerene Retreat is not merely an architectural project—it is a philosophy of wellness, one that celebrates the dialogue between body, mind, and environment. By embracing the timeless beauty of Badab Soort, it creates a space where visitors can reconnect with nature, with themselves, and with the healing power of water.
