Professional Bangladeshi Architects You Need to Know

Bangladesh has a rich and colorful history of Art, Culture and Architecture. Architecture of Bangladesh has an exceptional position in the world heritage. And thus happened due to dedication, passion, professionalism and merit of various Professional Bangladeshi Architects and Foreign Architects. In this article Arch-Bangla is presenting short biography of renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects.

Samsul Wares

Renowned Bangladeshi Architect  Samsul Wares obtained his bachelor’s degree in architecture from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 1968. After graduation, he joined the esteemed architect Mazharul Islam’s firm, Bastukalabid. In February 1972, he began his teaching career as a lecturer in the Department of Architecture at BUET. In 2003, he joined Asia Pacific University. Currently, he is serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering in the Department of Architecture at the State University of Bangladesh.

Architect Samsul Wares has been elected as the president of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) twice. In recognition of his contributions to architectural education, the institute honored him with a lifetime achievement award in 2009.

His works reflect his patriotism, love for people, and strong sense of duty. Some of his notable projects include the National Children’s Park in Dhaka, Vacation House in Gazipur, Syed Kamaluddin House in Dhanmondi, the Livestock Research Institute in Savar, and the Asia Pacific University campus in Dhaka, along with numerous residential buildings. Just as high-quality construction materials and solid foundations are essential for building structures, Samsul Wares has played a crucial role in shaping good individuals by strengthening the foundation of education and fostering quality learning.

Professional Bangladeshi Architects :Rafiq Azam

Among the Renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects of Bangladesh Architect Rafiq Azam is one of Bangladesh’s most renowned architects, gaining global recognition for his unique and sustainable designs. His philosophy of “Architecture for Green Living” has become an internationally celebrated concept, influencing architects worldwide. His works in Malaysia, Pakistan, and Australia have set new benchmarks in modern architecture.

In 2012, he was honored with the Living European Architecture Forum Award, one of the most prestigious awards for young architects globally.

Notable Projects

• CRP Physiotherapy Center, Mirpur
• Meghna Residence, Dhanmondi
• SP Setia Headquarters, Malaysia
• Ashraf Kaiser Residence
• SA Residence, Gulshan
• Bangladesh Embassy in Pakistan
• Multiple apartment buildings in South Bridge
• Azimpur Guest House and a new mosque
• 84-story skyscraper design in Parramatta, Australia (ongoing)

Scholarship & Global Influence

In recognition of his contributions, several international institutions have introduced scholarships in his name, known as the “Rafiq Azam Travels Scholarship”. These scholarships are already available at:

• The Australian Institute of Architects
• Monash University, Australia
• Jadavpur University, Kolkata
  A new scholarship program is also being introduced in Sri Lanka.

Through his innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, Rafiq Azam continues to inspire future architects worldwide.

 

Mustafa Khalid Palash

Renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects Mustafa Khalid Palash is the designer of Bashundhara City Shopping Mall, a landmark in Bangladesh’s architectural landscape. He has also designed several iconic structures, including Radisson Bay View, the country’s largest international five-star hotel in Chattogram, Grameenphone Corporate Head Office in Bashundhara, The Westin Hotel in Gulshan, Bashundhara City in Panthapath, Unique Trade Center, Labaid Hospital, and Banglalink Headquarters in Gulshan.

Mustafa Khalid Palash completed his Bachelor of Architecture from BUET in 1988, securing second place in the first class. He then joined BUET’s Faculty of Architecture as an Assistant Professor. After a decade of teaching, he left BUET in 1998 to focus solely on architecture. Along with his wife and former classmate Shahzia Islam Antan, he founded VISTARA Architects, which is now one of the largest architectural firms in Bangladesh.

Apart from architecture, Palash is deeply passionate about painting and music. He has held five solo painting exhibitions, earning widespread appreciation. Additionally, he has released four Rabindra Sangeet audio albums, which have been well received both in Bangladesh and abroad.

Through his self-established Delvista Foundation, he provides monthly allowances to freedom fighters and supports the education of underprivileged children.

Iqbal Habib

Iqbal Habib is one of the renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects. He graduated from the Department of Architecture at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 1991. After graduation, he and six of his friends established an architectural studio called “Vitti Architects.” Later, in 1994, he and two friends founded a limited firm named “Vitti Sthapati Brinda Ltd.” Currently, Iqbal Habib and Istiaq Zahur are leading this firm.

Philosophy and Approach

Iqbal Habib and his firm focus on social, environmental, and ethical values, ensuring that their architectural works contribute positively to the community.

Notable Projects

Some of their most prominent projects include:

• Hatirjheel Integrated Development Project
• Dhanmondi Lake Development
• Kamaruzzaman Park, Rajshahi
• Ongoing Narayanganj City Hall & Baburail Canal Restoration
• Shakuni Pond Development, Madaripur
• Bangabandhu Mausoleum, Tungipara
• Krishibid Institute, Farmgate
• Dusai Resort, Srimangal
• Bangladesh Institute of Architects Building, Agargaon
• Head Offices of City Bank, HSBC, UCBL
• Spa Center at Radisson Hotel
• Master Plan & Access Building Complex of Asian University for Women (AUW), Chattogram, in collaboration with world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie

International Contributions

• In 2006, Vitti Sthapati Brinda Ltd. played a major role in the development of Mequana Island in the Bahamas.

Achievements & Recognition

Vitti Sthapati Brinda Ltd. has achieved significant success in both corporate and public sector projects. They have consistently won first prizes in various architectural competitions.

Iqbal Habib’s work reflects a blend of modernity, sustainability, and cultural integrity, making him a distinguished figure in contemporary Bangladeshi architecture.

Masudur Rahman Khan

Architect Masudur Rahman Khan is one of the distinguished Professional Bangladeshi Architects who work with deep patriotism, love for nature, and compassion for people. His notable projects include the International Mother Language Institute and the Public Health Engineering Building in Segunbagicha, the Bangladesh Computer Council Building in Agargaon, and the mausoleum of the late President Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

Other significant projects under his name include Anika Residence in Baridhara, the Public Health Engineering Building in Segunbagicha, Bridge Crescent Lake, Sylhet Cricket Stadium, Cox’s Bazar Cricket Stadium, and Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. Additionally, his recent selection for the design of a hockey stadium and an indoor stadium in Goa, India, stands as a testament to his architectural excellence.

At present, his master plan and landscape design for the under-construction Payra Power Plant in Patuakhali are progressing rapidly. After completing his bachelor’s degree in architecture from BUET in 1989, he worked for eight consecutive years as an assistant architect at the Department of Architecture, a government institution. Later, he founded his own firm, Boshot.

In recognition of his contributions to the beautification of Dhaka, his firm won the Prime Minister’s Beautification Award in 2006. Currently, he is also serving as the Vice President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB).

Professional Bangladeshi Architects : Nahas Ahmed Khalil

Nahas Ahmed Khalil is a reclusive, nature-loving architect who seeks the harmony of nature amidst brick, wood, sand, and concrete. His architectural philosophy is deeply rooted in integrating natural elements into his designs, making each of his creations a reflection of nature’s presence.

Some of his notable projects include:

• Tea Estate Bungalow in Srimangal
• Dhaka Indoor Stadium & Swimming Pool
• Osban House of Duncan Brothers in Shamsernagar
• Bell Tower for Beximco
• United University in Dhanmondi
• Tiger’s Dell
• Aesthetic factory complex for Square in Bhaluka
• Serenity Lodge inside the Cantonment
• United International University
• Nina Shaheen Chowdhury’s residence in Savar

Each of his projects showcases his meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring a seamless blend of nature and technology.

After earning his Bachelor of Architecture from BUET in 1982, professional Bangladeshi Architects Nahas Ahmed Khalil joined The Environment Incorporate, later working at WIE. He has also been actively involved with ARC Architectural Consultants since its inception, continuing to contribute to innovative architectural design.

Enamul Karim Nirjhar

Enamul Karim Nirjhar is a well-known name in Bangladesh’s architectural industry. Beyond architecture, he is a prominent figure in the cultural sector, excelling as a filmmaker, lyricist, composer, photographer, and graphic designer. However, despite his diverse talents, his identity as an architect remains his most significant.

During his student years, he was actively involved in institutional development. After graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture from BUET, he founded his own firm, System Architects, in 1995. Through this firm, he has designed several notable structures and received both national and international awards. His expertise spans residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and interior design projects.

Some of his remarkable works include:

• British American Tobacco Bangladesh Ltd. Complex
• Ninakabbo, an aesthetic blend of poetry and concrete on Gulshan-Tejgaon Link Road
• Epyllion Knitex Garments Factory
• Genesis Fashion
• Multiple residential and multi-family housing projects
• Sanmar Bhuiyan Tower in Chattogram
• Well-known restaurants such as White Castle, Bukhara, and Sanatour

His architectural innovations and multidisciplinary creative contributions have left a significant mark on Bangladesh’s urban and cultural landscape.

Professional Bangladeshi Architects : Patrick D’Rozario

Patrick D’Rozario is a highly regarded architect and educator in modern architectural design. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture at BUET, where he continues to inspire and shape the next generation of architects. Alongside his academic career, he manages his own firm, Synthesis Architects.

He earned his Bachelor of Architecture in 1997, securing first place in the first class and receiving a Gold Medal for his outstanding academic performance.

Notable Projects

• Bay’s Galleria Commercial Building, Gulshan-1
• BRAC Aarong Commercial Building, Dhanmondi
• Holiday Nook Bungalow, Rupganj
• Westwood Apartment, Gulshan-2
• A.R. Plaza, Dhanmondi
• Moon’s Tree Residential Building, Banani
• Sunshine Knitting & Fashion Ltd.’s Instar Duplex Building, Bhulta
• Green Gulshan Avenue & Green and Dewar Commercial Building
• Royal Ridge Apartment, Khulshi, Chattogram
• White Forest Holiday Home Project (spread over 350 bighas in Gazipur)
• Impetans Center Commercial Building, Gulshan Link Road
• Master Plan of Pabna University of Science and Technology

Through his extensive portfolio, Patrick D’Rozario has left a significant impact on Bangladesh’s architectural landscape, blending functionality with aesthetics in both residential and commercial projects.

Professional Bangladeshi Architects : Tanzim Hasan Selim

Architect Tanzim Hasan Selim prioritizes function, form, space, structure, and finishing in his designs. He completed his Bachelor of Architecture in 2001 and later pursued a Master’s degree at Bauhaus University, Germany, in 2003.

Upon returning to Bangladesh, he co-founded the consultancy firm “Raum Entropy” with Abul Fazal Mahmudunnabi and his wife Nahid Farzana. Through this firm, he has designed several remarkable structures. In 2010, he established another firm named “DW”, which has contributed to multiple noteworthy projects.

Notable Projects

• Liberation War Museum, Agargaon
• United Group Housing
• Paril Green Apartment, Green Road

Competitions & Achievements

Tanzim Hasan Selim has actively participated in national and international architecture competitions, including:

• Heliosim Green-Built Housing, IDB
• Japan Architect Competition

With his innovative approach and global experience, he continues to shape Bangladesh’s architectural landscape.

Dr. Khandaker Sabbir Ahmed

Dr. Khandaker Sabbir Ahmed is a distinguished architect and educator with a rich legacy in the field of architecture in Bangladesh. He has been a faculty member at the Department of Architecture, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) for over 20 years.

Education and Expertise

• Dr. Sabbir completed his Doctorate Research at the Architectural Association School of Architecture, London, focusing on environmental performance-based architecture.
• He is an expert in green architecture and has significantly contributed to the integration of sustainable practices in the architectural field.

Professional Contributions

• He has played a pivotal role in shaping the Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) and is involved in green building initiatives, particularly in the textile sector in collaboration with German Technical Cooperation (GTZ).
• Dr. Sabbir is a member of the Passive and Low Energy Architecture (PLEA) international organization.
• He has served as a governing councilor at the House Building Research Institute and as a member of the Executive Committee at the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB).

Notable Projects

• Kazi Convention Center, BUET
• Sonali Bank Building, Chaumuhani

Memberships and Recognitions

• American Institute of Architects (AIA)
• World Green Building Council
• International Association of Urban Climate (IAUC)

Dr. Sabbir’s work emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency, making him a key figure in green architecture in Bangladesh.

Marina Tabassum

Marina Tabassum is a Bangladeshi Starchitect. She won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for the design of Bait-ur-Rouf Mosque in Dhaka, Bangladesh in 2016. Tabassum graduated in architecture from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 1994. She is the founder and Principal Architect of Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA). Having founded URBANA in 1995 with Kashef Chowdhury. She believes that, “Architecture should be designed in such a manner that people can tell what place it belongs to. Quite often you see architecture that is so impersonal, that they could be everywhere yet belong to nowhere. That does not make any sense to me.”

Notable Projects

• Museum of Independence,Dhaka
• A5 Residence, Dhaka
• Comfort Reverie, Dhaka
• Vacation House at Faridabad, Dhaka
• Baitur Rouf Mosque, Dhaka
• Panigram Eco Resort and Spa, Jashore
• Khudi Bari
• Chars in the coastal areas of Bangladesh

Achievements & Recognition

• Architect of the Year Award, by the Indian Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat (2001)
• Anannya Top Ten Awards (2004)
• Finalist of Aga Khan Award for A5, a pavilion apartment (2004)
• Second runner-up of Nishorgo Architectural Competition (2006)
• Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2016)
• Arnold W. Brunner Memorial Prize (2021)
• Soane Medal (2021)
• Lifetime Achievement Award (2022)
• TIME list of 100 Most Influential People of 2024

Saif Ul Haque

Saif Ul Haque (b.1958) is an architect practicing in Dhaka. He was a partner at Diagram Architects from 1984 to 1997 and he started his own practice afterwards. Saif was Instrumental in the Chetana Research Society and led a major exhibition on architecture titled Pundranagar to Sherebanglanagar in the capital in 1977. He also co-curated the exhibition Sherebanglanagar: Louis I. Kahn and the Making of a Capital Complex, and co-authored a book on the subject in 2002.

Notable Works

• Arcadia Education Project at Keraniganj. Dhaka (2015)
• Design Development Center, Chittagong (2012)
• Paramount School and College, Rajshahi (2009)
• Gyan Bigyan Kendro, Modhupur (2003)
• Govinda Gunalanker Hostel at Chittagong (1999)
• Camp House for an Archaeological Team at Bogra (1996)
• Banchte Shekha Training Center at Jessore (1994)

Awards

• IAB Design Award (2002)
• ARCASIA Award (2002)
• J.K. Cement Award (2001)
• Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2017-2019 cycle.

Remarkable Bangladeshi Architects You Need to Know