Khij-Social-Core-Cover-2

Khij Social Cores

A Village Reimagined by the Hands of Women
Location:
Khij Village, Semnan Province, Iran
Status:
Conceptual Design
Scale:
Large
Typology:
Social Infrastructure
Year:
2022
Timbre:
This project is rooted in the real-life story of Khadijeh, a woman who led a quiet revolution in her village by restoring an abandoned house into a guest residence, creating a source of income amidst economic hardship and rural migration. Her vision extended beyond entrepreneurship—she aspired to establish a dyeing and textile workshop to revitalize the village’s cultural heritage and economy. Khadijeh’s efforts inspired others to remain in the village, preserving not only homes but also social bonds. This project reimagines that legacy, drawing from the village’s historical fabric, where cooperation and empathy defined daily life. Through architectural study, it was discovered that seven traditional houses once stood in this area—only one remains. The design proposes reviving all seven through a contemporary interpretation that meets modern needs while honoring the past. The masterplan follows a pulse-like system—clusters of residences, workshops, and communal spaces closely knit together—promoting shared work, social equity, and gender-balanced participation. Every individual contributes based on expertise, and space is shaped by the users’ needs. This is not just an architectural intervention—it is a cultural framework for collective resilience and hope.