Davoudi house showcases Qajar architecture, tradition
On Towhid Street in Mashhad, the capital city of Khorasan Razavi Province, where the narrow alleys still retain the spirit of traditional neighborhoods, a historic house quietly stands: the Davoudi House. Dating back to the late Qajar period, this 120-year-old structure is listed among Iran’s national heritage sites. The house not only recalls the city’s past life and architecture but also offers visitors a vivid glimpse of Iranian artistry from a century ago. The property spans 417 square meters with a total built area of 526 square meters.
Entrance to the house is through a short, narrow corridor leading to the central courtyard. The courtyard, featuring an egg-shaped pool and shaded trees, exudes a serene atmosphere. Three sides of the courtyard are lined with the house’s main buildings, while the fourth side contains the kitchen, now used as a storage space, chtn.ir wrote.
On the western side of the courtyard, a small pool room — currently functioning as a modest kitchen — adds to the charm of the space. The house’s façade is adorned with intricate brickwork, wooden windows, and tiled niches, each reflecting Qajar-era style and the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of traditional Iranian architecture. Inside, ceilings are decorated with traditional woodwork, and the harmonious color schemes create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The thick walls of the house were designed not only to withstand weather changes but also to showcase the skill of Iranian architects in integrating interior space with the central courtyard. The Davoudi House also features a tall windcatcher, which historically played a key role in ventilation, channeling fresh air into the pool room and cooling the interior — a feature rarely seen in modern Mashhad.
Although interior access is limited, the exterior façade and central courtyard provide an unforgettable experience for visitors. The silence and tranquility of the courtyard, contrasting with the bustling Towhid Street, offer a moment to experience Mashhad’s historic atmosphere and step away from modern life.
The owner, Ebrahim Davoudi, has long been working to restore and preserve this valuable heritage site, aiming to ensure its sustainable use in the future. As such, the Davoudi House is not only a testament to past architecture and artistry but also a story of dedication, time, and responsibility in preserving cultural heritage.
For lovers of history and Iranian architecture, the Davoudi House offers a rare opportunity to witness and document a piece of Mashhad’s enduring legacy in the heart of the city.