Ali Akbar Saremi

Biography
Ali Akbar Saremi (1943 – 2017) – Iranian Architect
Early Life and Education
Ali Akbar Saremi was born on October 31, 1943, in Zanjan, Iran. He completed his high school education at Shariati High School (formerly Pahlavi High School) in Zanjan. In 1968, he graduated with a Master’s degree in Architecture from the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Tehran. He then pursued his doctoral studies at the University of Pennsylvania under the supervision of the renowned architect Louis Kahn, earning his PhD in 1976.
Career and Contributions
After returning to Iran, Saremi worked at the architectural firm of Sardar Afkhami. In 1980, he established his own firm, Tajeer Consulting Engineers, where he served as chairman. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his innovative approach to architecture, particularly in designing spaces that address urban constraints and cultural considerations.
Saremi was a dedicated educator, teaching architecture at several institutions:
Farabi University (now Isfahan University of Art) (1976–1980)
Islamic Azad University, Central Tehran Branch (1994–1997)
University of Tehran (1994–1997)
He also contributed to prestigious architectural journals, sharing his insights on contemporary and Persian architecture.
Architectural Philosophy
Saremi emphasized the integration of space, light, and materials to create harmonious and human-centered environments. In an interview with Taghi Radmard (Bahram Hooshyar Yousefi), he discussed the importance of joyful and interactive spaces, particularly in educational buildings. He believed that architecture should not merely define spaces but should also offer areas for movement, reflection, and engagement.
Notable Projects
Saremi designed several landmark buildings in Iran and abroad, including:
Saremi Villa, Nowshahr (1973)
Afshar House, Zafaranieh, Tehran (1974–1976)
Academy of Fine Arts, Karaj (1995)
Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Algeria (2008)
Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Tirana, Albania (2002–2004)
Kermanshah City Hall (Waiting Hall) (2004–2008)
Amphitheater of Pasteur Institute, Tehran (1988)
Bloor Tower Commercial Building, Tabriz (2001)
Commercial and Cultural Complex & City Council, Mashhad (2003)
Exhibition and Office Complex, Kish (2004)
Published Works
In addition to his architectural projects, Saremi authored several books and articles on architecture and urbanism, including:
Architecture and Music (1991)
Gilan: A Collection of Articles (1996)
History of Architecture and Urbanism (1996)
Sustainable Values in Iranian Architecture
Designs from Iran (1998)
An Overview of Contemporary Iranian Architecture (1998)
Architectural Designs for Embassies in Albania and Algeria (2004)
Warp and Weft: My Journey with Architecture (2010)
Legacy
Ali Akbar Saremi was a member of several professional organizations, including:
Iranian Society of Consulting Engineers
Iranian Association of Architects and Urban Planners
Iranian Society of Architects
Tehran Building Engineering Organization
Board of Trustees, Iranian Architecture Luminaries Association
His contributions to Iranian and international architecture remain influential. He passed away on January 21, 2017, leaving behind a rich legacy of architectural innovation and education.
- Birthday: October 31, 1943
- Death: January 21, 2017
- Birthplace: Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
Architect