Soane Medal Lecture 2021

Marina Tabassum is a distinguished Bangladeshi architect who has received the Soane Medal for her significant contribution to the field of architecture. She reflects on her childhood, training, and the influence of growing up in Bangladesh on her work, which focuses on creating buildings that bring communities together and foster a sense of place. Her research into dwelling in the Ganges Delta and Bengali courtyards suggests alternative models of building, habitation, and ownership. She is committed to sustainability and creating architecture that improves the lives of those who use it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2021
Publisher: Sir John Soane's Museum

Distinguished Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum is the fourth recipient of the prestigious Soane Medal, an annual award that recognizes architects and critics who have made significant contributions to their field through practice, education, history, or theory, thereby advancing and enriching the public understanding of architecture. In this speech, Marina Tabassum takes us on a journey through her childhood, training, and the profound influence that growing up in newly independent Bangladesh has had on her work. From her iconic Bait ur Rouf Mosque to the majestic Dhaka Independence Monument, Tabassum has created buildings that not only serve functional purposes but also bring communities together and foster a distinct sense of place.

Through her research into dwelling in the Ganges Delta and Bengali courtyards, Tabassum offers alternative models of building, habitation, and ownership that have the potential to revolutionize architectural practice on a global scale. At the heart of her approach is a strong commitment to sustainability, which drives her to create buildings that not only enhance the lives of those who use them but also contribute to the betterment of the environment.

Tabassum's accounts of her most significant projects provide a captivating glimpse into the path she followed to become an internationally celebrated architect. She candidly shares her struggles, challenges, and moments of inspiration, showcasing her unwavering dedication and passion for her craft. Through her work, Tabassum has demonstrated that architecture is not just about creating physical structures but also about creating spaces that inspire, uplift, and connect people.

In conclusion, Marina Tabassum is a true visionary and a trailblazer in the field of architecture. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability, her innovative approach to building design, and her dedication to improving the lives of those around her have earned her the prestigious Soane Medal and positioned her as a leading figure in the architectural community. As we look to the future, we can expect to see more of her groundbreaking work that continues to shape the landscape of our built environment.

Weight: 80g
Dimension: 119 x 209 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781999693251