Professional Bangladeshi Architects You Need to Know (Part 2)

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 Arc-Bangla is presenting short biography of renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects. (Part 2)

Ehsan Khan

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Ehsan Khan established the architectural consultancy firm “Ehsan Architects” in 2010. After graduating from the Department of Architecture at BUET in 1991, he co-founded the firm “Vitti Sthapati Brindo” with two of his classmates.

Notable Works as a Team Leader

Among the Renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects of Bangladesh Architect Ehsan Khan has led the design of several remarkable projects, including:

• Bangabandhu Memorial Mausoleum in Tungipara
• Dhanmondi Lake Development Project
• Nisarga Visitor Center
• Hatirjheel Development Project
• Dr. Milan Memorial Monument
• National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s Mausoleum
• Gulshan-Banani Lake Bridge

Current & Major Projects

• Santa Glass House
• Dhaka Garden Bir Saptak in Banani Cantonment
• Dhaka Garden Airport Road, Dhaka
• Women’s Complex at Bailey Road
• Service Apartment: Amari Dhaka
• Lakeshore Apartment
• Nando’s Restaurant
• Apollo Hospital, Chittagong
• DPS School Senior Section

Currently, he is focusing on designing educational institutions, urban management projects, modern office spaces, and housing complexes suited to contemporary environmental needs.

Mahmudul Anwar Riyad

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Mahmudul Anwar Riyad entered the world of architecture after completing his studies at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). He co-founded the firm “Metaphor Architects” along with four of his classmates. Shortly after, he joined BUET as a faculty member.

Higher Education & International Training

For higher studies, he went to the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, UK, where he was directly mentored by the renowned architect Sir Peter Cook. After completing his advanced studies in design, he returned to Bangladesh and co-founded DWM4 Architects with fellow architect Mamunul Morshed.

Awards & Recognition

Due to his innovative and creative architectural works, he has received several prestigious awards, including:

• IAB Design Award
• Berger Award for Excellence in Architecture
• ICE Today AQSA Paints Award for Interior Design
• JK Cement Young Architect of the Year Award (India)

In 2006, he attended a Master Class in Sydney under Pritzker Prize-winning architect Glenn Murcutt. In 1999, he received postgraduate training at LUND University, Sweden.

Notable Projects

Some of his remarkable architectural and interior design works include:

• World Literature Centre (Bishwa Sahitya Kendra)
• Blooms Bari Heights, Baridhara
• Base Edge Water, Baridhara
• Green Delta Corporate Building
• Junior Laboratory School
• Under-construction Grameenphone Telecom Trust Building
• Social Convention Center
• Prime Bank Head Office (Interior Design)

Additionally, he has designed Aarong, Sailor, and Deshi Dosh at Bashundhara Mall.

Legacy

Professional Bangladeshi Architects of Bangladesh Mahmudul Anwar Riyad’s architectural philosophy blends functionality with aesthetic innovation, making him a significant figure in Bangladesh’s contemporary architectural landscape.

Salauddin Ahmed

Renowned architect Salauddin Ahmed earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture from Portland State University, Oregon, USA, in 1992. He then worked for two years as an architect in the Portland Planning Department under the U.S. government. In 1997, he completed his Master’s in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania.

Professional Career

From 1997 to 2000, he worked as an architect in the United States. Upon returning to Bangladesh, he collaborated with architect Saiful Haque for two years. In 2002, he established his own firm, “Salauddin Ahmed Atelier Robin Architects”.

Notable Projects

Some of his remarkable architectural works include:

• Karim Residence, Bashundhara
• Olive Grove Children’s Center, Chakaria
• Café Mango (various locations in Dhaka)
• Bengal Institute of Architecture, Landscape, and Settlement Research Center, Nikunja
• Tareque Masud & Mishuk Munier Roadside Memorial Landscape (collaborated with artist Dhali Al Mamun)
• Concern Worldwide (NGO) Head Office, Gulshan-1
• Rang’s Pearl, Banani
• Winner’s Creation Head Office, Baridhara

Legacy

Salauddin Ahmed is known for his modern and sustainable architectural approach, blending artistic aesthetics with functional design. His work continues to shape contemporary architecture in Bangladesh.

Professional Bangladeshi Architects: Mesbaul Kabir

Architect Mesbaul Kabir has been dedicatedly working in the field of architecture, integrating light, air, nature, and human empathy into his designs. He completed his Bachelor of Architecture from BUET in 1972. In 1982, he founded “Kabir & Associates Ltd.”, a firm that has since been responsible for designing numerous aesthetic and functional structures across Bangladesh.

Professional Contributions

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Mesbaul Kabir has made significant contributions to the architectural landscape of Bangladesh. His expertise extends to the planned design of residential buildings, offices, mosques, stadiums, shopping complexes, garment factories, clubs, and commercial towers.

Notable Works

Some of his most remarkable projects include:

• Mirpur Stadium, Mirpur
• Sena Kalyan Bhaban, Motijheel
• Gulshan Azad Mosque
• Glass House, Shafipur
• Army Stadium, Dhaka
• Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET)
• Gulshan Club
• Dhanmondi Mosque
• Anannya Shopping Complex, Baridhara
• Impulse Tower, Sylhet
• Abu Huera Mosque, Shibchar, Madaripur
• Al Markazul Islami Mosque, Dhaka
• Marble View Mosque, Gazipur

Legacy

Through his architectural vision, Mesbaul Kabir continues to leave a lasting impact on modern architecture in Bangladesh, blending functionality with aesthetic beauty.

 

Riyad Rouf

Among the Renowned Professional Bangladeshi Architects of Bangladesh Architect Riyad Rouf was born in Dhaka. After completing his studies in the Department of Architecture at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), he established a consultancy firm named “Rachana”, marking the beginning of his journey in the architectural field.

Family & Legacy

His father, A.K.M. Abdur Rouf, was an internationally renowned artist and a freedom fighter. He was the calligrapher of Bangladesh’s original Constitution, which was handwritten by him. Among his many prestigious awards, the Ekushey Padak and the Independence Award are notable.

Notable Works

Riyad Rouf has designed several remarkable structures, including:

• Bangladesh Election Commission Secretariat Building
• Bangladesh Army’s Multi-storied Residential Building (Studio-Type B.O.Q. Apartment) in Dhaka Cantonment
• Ocean Green, a Five-Star Residential Hotel in Cox’s Bazar

Additionally, he has designed several hospitals, high-rise buildings, and many other significant structures across Bangladesh.

 

Professional Bangladeshi Architects: Tania Karim and Nurur Rahman Khan

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Tania Karim and Nurur Rahman Khan are among the most prominent architects in Bangladesh, recognized for their deep appreciation of the country’s history, heritage, nature, and people. They are the founders of “Tania Karim N.R. Khan & Associates”, a leading architectural firm.

Notable Projects in Bangladesh

• Royal Thai Embassy, Baridhara, Dhaka
• Standard Chartered Bank Head Office, Motijheel
• HSBC Bank, Sylhet Branch
• HSBC Bank, Dhanmondi Branch
• Eastern Bank Head Office Building, Gulshan
• Bangla Academy Building and Auditorium
• Chittagong IT Center
• University of Chittagong
• British High Commission Office
• Australian Deputy High Commission Office
• UN Headquarters in Dhaka
• ID Building, Mirpur
• Vantage Group Head Office
• Grameenphone Head Office, Dhaka
• BRAC Building
• ACI Corporate Head Office, Mohakhali
• Proshika Head Office, Mirpur
• Sanchita Residence, Dhanmondi
• Beximco Pharma Office, Dhanmondi
• HSBC Bank’s six project developments
• Numerous residential buildings

International Projects

• Renew Center, Bhutan
• Rainbow Tours & Travels Resort, Bhutan
• Royal Oman Police Border Post, Oman
• Army Multipurpose Hall, Cantonment

Their contributions to both national and international architectural landscapes have established them as leading figures in modern architecture.

Professional Bangladeshi Architects: Jalal Ahmed

Architect Jalal Ahmed has expanded his work beyond urban areas, reaching rural communities and educating people on low-cost housing construction techniques. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1983. Along with his friends Saiful and Noman, he co-founded the architectural firm “Diagram Architects.” In 1997, he established his own firm, “JA Architects.”

Notable Projects

• Training and Research Centers in Bogra, Rangpur, and Faridpur
• Mosque at Rajendrapur Cantonment
• Jahanara Al Amin Spinning Mill, Kaliakoir
• Karnaphuli EPZ (KEPZ) Office, Chittagong
• Female Workers’ Hostel
• Scholastica School, Savar & Uttara Model Town
• Build Excel Apartment Complex, Dhanmondi
• Community Hall, Sreepur
• Group Housing, Ashulia
• Subarnadighi Weekend Home
• Utsav Palli School, Maona, Gazipur
• Navana Silverdale Apartment Complex, Basabo
• Shishu Palli, Sylhet
• Four Planned Villages & Shelter for River Erosion Victims, Gaibandha
• Multipurpose Shelter Projects

Professional Roles & Achievements

• Vice President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB)
• Vice President of the Commonwealth Association of Architects
• Winner of the Berger Award for Excellence in Architecture
• His projects have been featured in numerous international journals

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Jalal Ahmed’s architectural contributions, especially in sustainable and rural development, have received both national and international recognition.

Saida Akter Mumu

Architect Saida Akter Mumu has been a key advocate for sustainable industrial architecture in Bangladesh for the past 15 years. Since 2009, she has served as the Principal Architect at Matreek, where she has successfully completed the design of several LEED-certified green factories. Her work is highly regarded in the industrial sector, where she has consistently emphasized environmentally responsible design. Saida holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Khulna University, and her expertise has made her a prominent figure in advancing green building practices within Bangladesh’s industrial landscape.

Notable Projects

• Dekko Garments Ltd
• Project Hilsha
• Eco-Couture
• Galaxy Residence

Awards

• Winner of “29th JK-AYA” in “FCAA Young Architect Award”
• Honorary Award winner for Monument
• Design of International Mother Language Monument at Windsor, Canada in 2017.

Mohammad Foyez Ullah

Mohammad Foyez Ullah is one of the most talented architects and educators of Bangladesh. He has a Bachelors and Masters from BUET and won the “Ahsanur Rahman Gold Medal.” In 1998, Foyez concentrated his practice as a principal in Vistaara, After a decade long partnership, he started working with Volumezero in 2008. From academia to corporate, he has definitely established a niche for himself. His work embodies a creative expression that visualizes inter- play of forms and spaces while validating the inherent functions.

Notable Projects

• Cox’s Bazar Rail Station
• GP House Design
• Banglalink Head Office
• Peoples Insurance Bhaban Design

Awards

• Holcim Green Built Award, 2010
• Critic Award, Liberation War Museum Design, Dhaka, 2009
• Berger Excellence in Architecture Award, 2007
• IAB Design Award, 1998

Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed

Renowned Architect Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed is dedicated to researching and preserving the country’s heritage architecture. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1983 and began his career at ECBL, a consultancy firm, where he practiced architecture for four years. Later, he moved to Germany for his Master’s and Ph.D. studies, completing his Ph.D. from Karlsruhe University in 1997.

Currently, he serves as the Head of the Architecture Department at Asia Pacific University and is also the President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB). Alongside his academic responsibilities, he has worked on several remarkable architectural preservation projects, making him a role model for many in the field.

Notable Projects

• Bongobondhu Hall, University of Dhaka
• Nagar Bhaban, Fulbaria (with Chief Architect Abu Haider Imam Uddin)
• Guest House at Dhaka Club, Shahbagh
• Bir Motiur Rahman Academy, BAF, Jessore
• Central Library, Dhaka Cantonment
• Central Mosque, Dhaka Cantonment
• Gymnasium at BAF, Jessore
• Fire Bridge Station, Forchheim, Germany
• Durlach Residence Building, Germany
• ECBL Office Building, Baksibazar, Dhaka

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed’s contributions to heritage conservation and architectural education have made him a respected figure in both Bangladesh and international architectural communities.

Professional Bangladeshi Architects: Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury

Kashef Mahboob Chowdhury was born in Dhaka, the son of a civil engineer, growing up in Bangladesh and the Middle East before graduating in architecture from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 1995. In 2006, he attended the Glenn Murcutt Masterclass in Sydney. After working with architect Uttam Kumar Saha, he established the practice URABANA in partnership. Kashef Chowdhury has a studio based practice whose works find root in history with strong emphasis on climate, materials and context-both natural and human. His exceptional projects took him to the international level of achievements. His recent achievement includes Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2016.

Notable Projects

• Chandgaon Mosque
• Friendship Centre EHL Premium Condominiums. Gulshan
• Gulshan Society Mosque

Awards

Winner Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2016
Winner Architectural Review’s AR+D Emerging Architecture Award 2012
Winner JK Architect of the Year Award. 2002
Winner Independence Monument and Liberation War Museum. 1996

Asif M. Ahsanul Haque

Architect Asif M. Ahsanul Haque earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in 2000 from the Architecture Discipline of Khulna University. In 2004, he founded “Venna Architects,” a consultancy firm. Over the years, he has designed numerous residential, commercial, healthcare, and religious structures.

Notable Projects

• Naori Marine Drive, Cox’s Bazar
• Zaman Sea Heights, Cox’s Bazar
• BuildEx Eden, Cox’s Bazar
• VistaBay Heights, Cox’s Bazar
• Grand Regia, Cox’s Bazar
• CSC-R Hospital Pvt. Ltd., Chattogram
• NIC Zaman Tower, Chattogram
• Vista Divine, Chattogram
• Baitus Salat Mosque
• Weekend Address of Haroon’s Family
• Numerous apartments and buildings

Professional Bangladeshi Architects Asif M. Ahsanul Haque was honored with the 6th Berger Award for Excellence in Architecture in the Single Family Residence category. He also serves as the Secretary for Heritage and Culture at the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB).

Remarkable Bangladeshi Architects You Need to Know