Kalbod Design Studio turns Ernan Castle into a Boutique Hotel
Kalbod Design Studio’s concept reimagines the Ernan Castle in Mehriz, Iran, reviving the historical structure as a contemporary boutique hotel. The Ernan Boutique Hotel reinterprets the conventional approach to boutique hotel design by integrating renovation as part of the architectural process rather than solely focusing on historical restoration. The existing castle structure has been preserved and selectively restored, while a distinct roof structure has been introduced above. These two independent elements—the historical castle and the new roof—define the spatial composition. The roof extends inward where the castle has deteriorated, while it recedes in areas where the structure remains intact, creating a contrast between past and present without merging them. This approach establishes a juxtaposition of positive and negative spaces, maintaining clear spatial boundaries.
all visuals by Ziba Baghban, courtesy of Kalbod Studio Design
The architectural team at Kalbod Studio Design conceptualizes the hotel as a curated journey, structured around four thematic sections—Earth, Fire, Water, and Air—each offering distinct spatial and sensory experiences. These elements shape the visitor’s engagement with the environment, aligning architecture with an immersive experience that extends beyond traditional hospitality. The sequence of movement within the hotel is carefully orchestrated, guiding guests through varying atmospheres designed to enhance interaction with the surroundings.
Since their emergence in the 1980s, boutique hotels have been defined by their emphasis on unique experiences, transforming the accommodation into a destination itself. The Ernan Boutique Hotel builds on this principle by prioritizing spatial design as the core of the visitor experience. Rather than focusing solely on the recreation of historical elements, the project introduces contemporary architectural interventions that respond to the existing structure while maintaining its integrity.
