Known for:
Adaptive Reuse of Cultural Landscapes, Sustainable Landscape Design, Conceptual Architecture, Residential & International Projects
Biography
Ghazaleh Kalhor is an Iranian landscape architect and architectural designer whose work centers on the intersection of built and natural environments. With a strong passion for sustainable human habitats, she explores innovative ways to integrate architecture, landscape, and cultural identity into harmonious living spaces.
She completed her Master’s degree at the University of Bologna, where her thesis focused on the adaptive reuse of cultural landscapes. Her research examined how historical rural territories can be preserved while being thoughtfully integrated into contemporary urban contexts. This academic work strengthened her expertise in sustainable design strategies, cultural heritage preservation, and environmental systems analysis.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Ghazaleh has combined conceptual thinking with strong visualization skills, developing detailed 3D models and photorealistic renderings to communicate architectural ideas effectively. She is particularly interested in how green systems, urban environments, and human activity interact to shape quality of life.
Currently based in Milan, Italy, she works as a freelance architect, collaborating with private clients and expanding her international professional presence.
Professional Experience
Freelance Architect — Self-Employed (Milan, Italy)
April 2024 – Present
- Develops conceptual architectural and landscape designs tailored to private clients.
- Provides comprehensive landscape and interior design solutions.
- Produces detailed 3D models and photorealistic renderings for presentations.
- Worked on a landscape design project in Phoenix, Arizona (featured in portfolio).
- Collaborates on diverse residential projects with personalized creative solutions.
Landscape Architect — Siciliamia (Sicily, Italy)
March 2023 – August 2023
- Analyzed property drawings and proposed efficient material solutions.
- Contributed to sustainable design strategies and green energy implementation.
- Designed and rendered landscapes for three villas.
- Prepared reconstruction presentations for a project in Sicily.
- Conducted compliance research and collaborated on project coordination.
Researcher — University of Bologna
January 2022 – January 2023
- Conducted research on adaptive reuse of cultural landscapes.
- Developed a methodological framework for sustainable integration of historic and modern contexts.
- Produced academic writing and visual research documentation.
Architectural Designer — Maand Architectural Office
March 2018 – June 2020
- Contributed to the design of a Thermal Springs Guest House (Iceland competition).
- Designed and visualized projects including Villa Mosha (Damavand) and Moshrefi Villa.
- Provided interior design consultation and spatial planning.
- Collaborated on concept plans for the Lavij Multi-Purpose Complex.
Architectural Designer — Maand Architectural Office
June 2013 – January 2015
- Produced 2D construction documentation using AutoCAD.
- Assisted in streamlining the architectural design process from concept to execution.
Education
University of Bologna — Italy
Master in Engineering of Building Processes and Systems (Landscape Architecture)
2020 – 2024
Final Grade: 100/110
Thesis: The National Register of Historic Rural Landscapes as a Tool for Protecting Cultural Landscapes – Case Study: Valle del Lamone, Italy
Islamic Azad University of South Tehran Branch
MA in Landscape Architecture
2015 – 2017
Thesis: Designing the Urban Landscape of North Farahzad with a Recreational Approach Based on Natural Aspects
Islamic Azad University of Qazvin
B.S. in Architectural Engineering
2008 – 2012
Thesis: Museum of Modern Art
Core Competencies
- Landscape Architecture
- Sustainable Design
- Adaptive Reuse of Cultural Sites
- 3D Visualization & Rendering
- Concept Development
- Residential & International Projects
Software & Tools
- AutoCAD
- SketchUp
- Lumion
- 3Ds Max
- V-Ray
- Adobe Suite
Creative Philosophy
Ghazaleh believes architecture should enhance human well-being by creating a meaningful dialogue between natural systems and built environments. Her work aims to preserve heritage while embracing innovation, ensuring sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic harmony.