Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum on Time’s 100 Most Influential People list

Renowned Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum has been honoured in Time magazine’s prestigious list of the 100 most influential people, lauded for her groundbreaking contributions to architectural innovation. Tabassum’s distinctive approach deviates from the norm of commercialism, instead prioritizing the needs of local communities.

In an industry where individual acclaim often overshadows altruism, Tabassum’s ethos stands out. Famed for her commitment to environmentally sustainable design, her architectural philosophy is deeply rooted in community service and environmental stewardship. Tabassum’s compassion extends even to the buildings she designs. Viewing them as living entities reliant on Earth’s resources, she emphasizes the importance of natural ventilation and sustainability. Notably, her Bait Ur Rouf Mosque in Dhaka exemplifies this ethos, earning accolades such as the Aga Khan Award for Architecture and recognition by the American Academy of Arts and Letters Awards in 2021.

Moreover, in Bangladesh, where climate change has heightened flood risks, Tabassum has pioneered the creation of cost-effective, easily movable housing solutions. Her designs prioritize resilience, ensuring that buildings not only breathe but also remain resilient against environmental challenges. While Tabassum’s practice is deeply rooted in local contexts, her influence transcends borders. Through teaching, lecturing, and international recognition, she promotes architecture as a universal language, emphasizing collaboration over individuality.

In recognition of her lifetime of achievements, Tabassum was honoured with the Millennium Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lisbon Architecture Triennale 2022. Her inclusion in Time’s list of influential figures reaffirms her status as a trailblazer in the field of architecture, inspiring future generations to prioritize community and sustainability in their designs.